Faith and Foresight: Health Awareness and Mindful Eating

5 March 2026

KUALA LUMPUR: During the sacred month of Ramadan, Malaysian Muslims embrace a period of fasting, reflection, and family togetherness. While this holy month promotes spiritual discipline and self-control, health experts are emphasising that caring for the body remains equally vital, particularly during extended fasting hours.

According to Dato’ Dr Malik Mumtaz, Consultant Endocrinologist, Ramadan offers a meaningful opportunity for Malaysians to prioritise their health, especially conditions that often develop silently without early symptoms.

“Ramadan is a time of renewal,” he said. “But we must also ensure our bodies are healthy enough to sustain the fast. I frequently see patients who struggle during Ramadan because of underlying, undiagnosed conditions. Simple screening before or early in the fasting month can help people fast more safely and confidently.”

Fasting induces notable changes in daily routines, meal timing, and sleep patterns. For many healthy individuals, the body adapts well. However, for those with undiagnosed conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, or early-stage kidney disease, these changes can strain the body further.

“Ramadan alters how the body processes energy,” explains Dato’ Dr Malik. “Long fasting hours followed by a sudden intake of carbohydrates at Iftar can sometimes unmask underlying metabolic imbalances.”

Symptoms like extreme fatigue, dizziness, excessive thirst, or difficulty concentrating are often dismissed as normal hunger. However, Dr Malik warns that these signs may point to deeper health issues that should not be overlooked.

Ramadan bazaars and festive meals are a cherished part of the season, offering a variety of traditional foods and drinks. While they promote joy and social bonding, doctors advise moderation and mindful eating.

High-sugar drinks and deep-fried foods can cause rapid fluctuations in blood sugar levels, placing additional stress on the pancreas and kidneys. Instead of avoiding festive foods altogether, it’s better to make sensible choices, focusing on quality rather than quantity. Enjoy the delicacies with moderation.

“Relish the food, but do so responsibly,” he advises. “Simple habits like drinking plenty of water, controlling portion sizes, and not skipping Sahur can make a significant difference.”

He also recommends that Sahur include complex carbohydrates and fibre-rich foods to help sustain energy throughout the day.

A common misconception is that physical activity should cease during Ramadan to conserve energy. In fact, gentle to moderate exercise is crucial to keep the metabolism active.

“The movements during Terawih prayers already provide gentle exercise that supports digestion and joint mobility,” notes Dr Malik. “A short walk after Iftar can also help regulate blood sugar levels.”

Such activities complement the spiritual aspects of Ramadan and contribute to overall wellbeing.

With Hari Raya approaching, Dato’ Dr Malik urges Malaysians to incorporate health screening into their festive preparations. Just as we prepare our homes and outfits, we should also prepare our health.

“Waiting for symptoms is risky,” he warns. “By the time you feel ‘sick,’ damage may already be advanced. A quick screening at your local pharmacy or clinic, checking HbA1c, blood pressure, and kidney function, is the most responsible act of self-care you can undertake this month. If you have diabetes, consult your doctor to determine if fasting is safe for you. While fasting is a religious obligation, certain groups should avoid it because it could harm their health, including those with renal impairment, insulin-dependent diabetes, and pregnant women.”

These screenings support the Ministry of Health’s efforts to combat Malaysia’s rising non-communicable disease (NCD) crisis, where many remain unaware of their chronic conditions.

Ultimately, Ramadan is about discipline and safeguarding life. By balancing spiritual aspirations with medical foresight, Malaysians can enjoy Aidilfitri in a state of true wellness.

“Health is a trust (amanah) given to us,” concludes Dato’ Dr Malik. “By screening early and eating mindfully, we don’t just complete a fast,  we ensure we are healthy enough to enjoy many more Ramadans with our families.”