As some of you may know, Ramadan, a holy month in the Islamic religion began on Wednesday, May 16th and will continue until approximately Thursday, June 14th as it is dependent on the lunar Islamic calendar. During this holy month, which is a commemoration of the first revelation of the Quran to Mohammed, many Muslims fast as a show of spiritual devotion and self-restraint.
Although the fasting period takes place between dawn and sunset (with meals being consumed prior to and after the fasting period ends), there are still many people who may wonder if it’s as safe as they originally thought. Many health considerations are already taken, with certain groups being exempt from the fasting period (e.g., diabetics, nursing/pregnant women, pre-pubescent children, etc.), but what about those with chronic kidney disease or those at risk of developing CKD?
Let’s take a look at the facts…
- Any prolonged period of abstaining from food and water can result in dehydration. Dehydration is a serious problem if you have impaired kidneys and makes toxin filtration even more difficult.
- CKD patients on hemodialysis cannot follow the fasting period due to IV fluid intake which is necessary during the process; skipping dialysis is highly inadvisable!
- People with kidney transplants should also refrain from fasting due to their need to adhere to their regimen of prescription medications.
- In a recent study which followed CKD patients in stage 3 or higher, fasting (especially during the summer) was associated with a heightened worsening of renal function.
- For Suhoor (Pre-Dawn Meal) be sure to consume slow-digesting foods packed with fiber to feel full easier and throughout the day.
- Instead of a caffeinated beverage (i.e., coffee and some teas, sodas, etc.), which will dehydrate you throughout the day, make sure you drink water or a decaf alternative.
- Replace drier foods with ones containing more moisture to encourage hydration, lots of fruits and vegetables as opposed to pastries, breads, etc.
- For Iftar (Evening Meal), try to eat leaner foods, use cooking methods like baking instead of frying and, as always, limit salt!
