Many individuals who fast during Ramadan suffer from headaches while fasting, especially during the first few days of the holy month.

These headaches resulted from several changes that occur during Ramadan, including the rapid change in dietary habits, reduced fluid intake, and the changes in sleeping patterns by staying up late and not getting enough sleep at night.

According to Dr Yousef Al Tayeb, Senior Consultant of Emergency Medicine at Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC), some individuals may have a headache before the Iftar meal, while others can get a headache after having their Iftar meal.

He said that there are two types of these headaches: primary and secondary.

Headaches often occur before Iftar due to the decreased blood glucose levels. Glucose is an important source of energy for the human body and food is its main source. Once the individual eats, the body turns the food consumed to simple sugar, known as glucose, through the digestion and metabolism process. Glucose is then carried through the bloodstream to the body’s cells to provide energy for performing vital processes.

However, some individuals can have headaches after eating their Iftar meal, which often occurs due to overeating and indigestion. Excessive eating and drinking during Iftar until the stomach is full can apply pressure on the diaphragm and affect the breathing mechanism, which can lead to shortness of breath, fatigue and headache.

These health tips from Dr Al Tayeb can help fasting individuals avoid headaches:

  • Delay the Suhoor meal and choose healthy, slow-digesting foods such as grains, legumes, vegetables and fruits to ensure the body has enough energy during the fasting period.
  • Avoid staying up late at night and try to have regular sleeping patterns and take a nap during daytime hours.
  • Make sure to drink plenty of water and fluids (up to three litres) during the hours between Iftar and Suhoor.
  • Keep your blood glucose levels within the normal range by eating in moderation during Iftar and Suhoor meals.

It is important to eat healthy, balanced Iftar meals to ensure the body is getting enough nutrients and vitamins. It’s also recommended to eat in moderation during Iftar to avoid indigestion and stomach upset. Fasting individuals are also advised to limit their intake of caffeinated drinks and to stay in cool places during the hot hours of the day and avoid prolonged exposure to sunlight or hot environments as much as possible to prevent excessive sweating, dehydration and headaches.

Patients who take medication, especially those with chronic conditions and patients with hypertension are recommended to consult with their doctor before they fast to arrange for timing and dosage modifications if needed. It’s also advised to avoid sources of stress and anxiety and to reduce exposure time to electronic screens.

More Ramadan health tips? Check our compilation here.

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