With Ramadan 2021 just around the corner, Muslims worldwide are bracing themselves to take full advantage of the blessings and mercy bestowed upon the holy month by the Almighty Creator.Here are some of the fundamentals of Ramadan fasting 2021, rules, times, benefits, tips, and more.
When is Ramadan?
In 2021, Ramadan starts around 13 April in most Islamic countries including the UAE. A recent update made by an astronomy center in Abu Dhabi has concluded that the month of Sha’ban has begun on Monday, (March 15).This means that Ramadan 2021 will begin either on Tuesday, April 13 or on Wednesday, April 14, 2021, depending on the length of the month of Sha’ban.
Why do Muslims fast on Ramadan?
Fasting in Ramadan is among the Five Pillars of Islam; the most important acts of worship that a Muslim must observe. These five pillars are:The declaration of faith (Shahada)The 5 daily prayers (Salah)FastingThe compulsory alms to the poor (Zakat)The pilgrimage to Mecca (Hajj)Ramadan fasting allows Muslims to be afforded a divine pardon in which they may be granted absolution and reprieve for all their past transgressions. This enables them to return to a state of purity and starting their journey anew.To acquire the blessings of Ramadan they must first prove themselves worthy by completing (or at least attempting to complete) the Ramadan fast. Muslims believe that by performing this month-long fast their submission to God may reach its zenith as their minds and bodies are cleansed of impurities. 
What are the rules of Ramadan fasting?
Ramadan fasting is performed for the sake of Allah and involves believers refraining from eating, drinking, smoking, and engaging in husband-wife intimacy from just before sunrise to moments following the setting of the sun. Apart from the ‘physical’ aspect, Ramadan fasting also requires Muslims to be more engaged in spiritual contemplations and attempt to stay away from sin even more than usual. One should not speak, see, hear or do evil, as well as recognizing that a believer is solely dependent on Allah alone.Finally, the month of Ramadan also emphasizes the social aspect. It is believed that the state of hunger and thirst experienced by Muslims will compel them to further motivate Muslims in helping others that are less fortunate and in need of charity.Although Ramadan fasting is deemed compulsory, there are those who are exempt from this obligation. Travelers, children, the elderly, the sick and pregnant women as well as breastfeeding and menstruating women are not required to perform the fast.ALSO READ: A diabetic’s guide to fasting during Ramadan
What are the benefits of Ramadan fasting?
Fast & Fit: The Doctor‑Approved Perks of Skipping Meals
Forget the myth that fasting is only for monks or Insta‑followers. Science is handing out the proof—fasting can do wonders for your body and mind. Check out the headline‑grabbers:
1⃣ Sticky‑Sweet & Savvy
- Blood‑sugar control: By cut‑ting insulin resistance, fasting smooths out your glucose highs and lows.
2⃣ Inflammation? What Inflammation?
- Reduces foul inflammation: Cooler, calmer cells lead to fewer aches, pains, and that nagging brain fog.
3⃣ Cardio Confidence
- Heart‑health boost: Lower blood pressure, better triglycerides, and cholesterol levels—your ticker will thank you.
4⃣ Brain Power
- Neuro‑protection: Fasting keeps the brain sharp and dims the risk of later‑life neurodegenerative troubles.
5⃣ Weight‑Weaving
- Lose pounds: Fewer calories + a speed‑up in metabolism = a slimmer you.
6⃣ Hormonal Heroism
- Growth hormone surge: Stimulates growth, fuels metabolism, and supports muscle strength—no gym‑rat required.
7⃣ Time‑Travel on a Molecular Level
- Age‑slowdown: Fasting may help you kick the clock and live a bit longer.
8⃣ Fight‑Cancer Vibes
- Prevention + chemo boost: Fasting does a double‑takedown: it can lower cancer risk and make chemotherapy work better.
In short, if you’re thinking “I’m going to skip lunch just to shave a few kilos,” the actual science says you can do that and also jazz up your heart, brain, and longevity. Give yourself that daily “fast‑track” to health—your future self will send you thank‑you postcards!
Ramadan fasting tips
Although fasting can be beneficial, do try to avoid some of the pitfalls associated with Ramadan fasting. For example, some will opt to skip the pre-dawn meal (suhoor) for whatever reason, which is unwise as it could potentially be detrimental to their health. Skipping suhoor means denying the body’s needs for nutrition and fluid; you will more than likely experience dehydration, sluggishness, lack of concentration, which may ultimately lead to you failing your fast.
Suhoor is arguably the most important element of a successful day’s fast since a well-balanced meal will provide you with the necessary energy to maintain your fitness level throughout the day. Ensure your suhoor meal is rich in complex carbs, vegetables and fruits, protein and above all, water.Make sure to drink a good amount of water to keep yourself hydrated and avoid excessive thirst throughout the day. Avoid sugary water the likes of bottled juices and soft drinks because not only are they unhealthy, they also won’t help you stave off thirst for long. Additionally, it’s generally a good idea to minimize physical activities and avoid exerting yourself physically during a hot day.This article was first published in Wego.ramadanTipsfoods
