Fasting can often lead to feelings of weakness and sleepiness, particularly during the day when energy levels tend to drop. This drowsiness is common and typically results from changes in eating and sleeping habits, along with a lack of fluids and essential nutrients the body needs.
While it's a normal part of fasting, it’s still important to address this drowsiness so you can remain comfortable and alert throughout Ramadan. This article will offer several tips on how to overcome drowsiness while fasting, helping you stay energized and focused throughout the day.
Tips to Get Rid of Drowsiness While Fasting
While it might be tempting to drink coffee to fight drowsiness, it’s best to avoid it during fasting. Coffee contains caffeine, which can increase thirst and elevate the risk of dehydration. Here are some alternative strategies to combat fatigue without interfering with your fast:
Ensure Adequate Sleep at Night
Getting enough quality sleep is crucial for maintaining energy and reducing fatigue during the day. During Ramadan, sleep patterns are disrupted due to the timings of suhoor and Tarawih prayers.
To help ensure a good night's rest, consider these tips:
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Go to bed earlier.
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Create a relaxing sleep environment to help you fall asleep faster.
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Limit the use of electronic devices such as phones, laptops, or TVs, as they can interfere with melatonin production.
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If necessary, take a short nap (10-20 minutes) to refresh your body and mind.
Choose the Right Foods During Suhoor
The foods you consume at suhoor play a significant role in maintaining your energy levels throughout the day. Opt for foods that will help sustain you, such as complex carbohydrates, protein, and healthy fats.
Additionally, make sure to stay hydrated by drinking enough water during iftar, before bed, and at suhoor. This will prevent dehydration, which can contribute to fatigue and drowsiness.
Stay Active and Move
Being physically inactive can make you feel even more tired. While fasting, it’s important to keep your body moving with light activities. Some ways to stay active include:
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Doing light household chores.
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Taking the stairs instead of the elevator.
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Engaging in mild exercises like walking or stretching.
Wash Your Face with Cold Water
Cold water can help rejuvenate the body and combat drowsiness. If you feel sleepy, splash cold water on your face for an instant refreshing effect.
Avoid Overeating During Iftar
While breaking your fast is highly anticipated, it’s important not to overeat or indulge in heavy foods right after iftar. Large portions or rich foods can cause drowsiness post-meal.
To prevent post-iftar fatigue, eat in moderation. Start with light snacks and avoid foods high in fat or simple carbohydrates. Allow some time to pass before consuming a heavier meal so your body can properly digest the initial food.
Ensure Adequate Hydration
Dehydration is a common cause of fatigue. It’s vital to drink enough water when breaking your fast and during suhoor. Avoid overconsumption of caffeinated drinks, such as coffee, tea, or soda, as they can dehydrate the body and interfere with sleep.
By prioritizing quality sleep, choosing nutritious foods at suhoor and iftar, staying active, and maintaining proper hydration, you can preserve your energy levels and focus throughout the fasting period without feeling overly tired or drowsy. The key is to listen to your body and maintain a balanced approach to fasting so that you stay fit and healthy.
If you experience any health issues while fasting, it’s advisable to consult a doctor or use the consultation feature on the Ai Care app, available for download on both the App Store and Play Store.
Looking for more information about health tips and tricks, first aid, and other home remedies? Click here!
- dr Hanifa Rahma
Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi (2021). 5 Tips For More Energy During Ramadan. Available from: https://www.clevelandclinicabudhabi.ae/en/health-byte/ramadan/5-tips-for-more-energy-during-ramadan
Jillian Kubala, MS, RD (2024). 9 Potential Intermittent Fasting Side Effects. Available from: https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/intermittent-fasting-side-effects
Jay Vera Summer (2024). 8 Health Benefits of Sleep. Available from: https://www.sleepfoundation.org/how-sleep-works/benefits-of-sleep
Cleveland Clinic (2024). Is It Safe to Work Out While You’re Fasting?. Available from: https://health.clevelandclinic.org/working-out-while-fasting
Eric Suni (2023). Sleep and Overeating. Available from: https://www.sleepfoundation.org/physical-health/sleep-and-overeating