Fasting during Pregnancy

There are only short terms studies available on fasting in pregnancy which show no negative effect provided that the mother and the fetus are in good health.

• It is better to stop fasting if you are:

1. feeling dizzy or sever headache
2. Difficulty in concentrating or problems with vision
3. Extreme thirst
4. Significant weight loss or no enough weight gain

• There is a minor effect on fetus weight when fasting on the first three months of pregnancy due to possibility of nausea and vomiting.
• It is advised to check with the doctor if fasting is safe during the first three months of pregnancy.
• It is advised to do a general check up before start fasting to exclude any risks that may prevent you from fasting.

Fasting during pregnancy depends on:
1. General health condition of the mother before and during pregnancy
2. Stage of pregnancy
3. Pregnancy risks and complications
4. Total hours of fasting (the country and the season)

Diet and life style during Ramadan:
1. Avoiding overworking and heat exposure, reducing housework, and taking several breaks during the day.
2. Sleeping enough hours and avoiding stress.
3. Limit caffeine to 2 cups day.
4. Drinking enough water and other liquids (approximately 1.5 – 2 L).
5. Avoiding eating too much sugary food that lead to a sudden rise in sugar level and then falling quickly, which may lead to feeling dizzy.
6. Eating food that takes longer to digest in Suhoor such as whole grain food, beans and legumes.

7. Eating food rich in fiber such as vegetables and dried fruits.

8. Eating enough protein from beans, nuts, well cooked egg and meat.

9. Eating a light healthy meal beside Iftar and Suhoor.
10. Avoiding binge drinking of water before start fasting as it might cause vomiting.
11. Making sure to take the vitamins and supplements.

Pregnant ladies are not advised to fast in the following cases:
1. Diabetes, kidney problems, heart problems, or sever anemia.
2. Severe vomiting in the first months of pregnancy.

You need to be careful and contact your doctor when:
1. frequency or burning while passing urine.
2. Severe headache and tiredness.
3. Severe nausea.
4. Feeling painful contractions or changes in fetal movement during 24 hours.