Ramadan fasts can boost immune system to fight infections such as coronavirus, study says

Doctors stress importance of exercise and eating in moderation

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  Ali Salem Al Kaabi Mosque in Abu Dhabi will have safety in mind as it welcomes worshippers during Ramadan. All pictures by Victor Besa / The National

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  Worshippers wear masks in line with Covid-19 safety measures at Ali Salem Al Kaabi Mosque

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  Mohammad Moin Uddin, the imam of Ali Salem Al Kaabi Mosque, said preparations are well in hand for Ramadan

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  Mosques will be open during Ramadan after being closed during the holy month of 2020 due to Covid-19 safety restrictions

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  Mohammad Moin Uddin, the imam of Ali Salem Al Kaabi Mosque in Abu Dhabi.

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  Health protocols are being closely followed at the mosque

Fasting during Ramadan could help a person's immune system fight infections such as Covid-19, a study showed.

Researchers said fasting allowed the body to produce new white blood cells, rejuvenating the immune system.

In a study published in the journal Frontiers in Nutrition, the researchers suggested that fasting could reduce the harmful effects of inflammatory cytokines.

Cytokines are essential to the immune system but the inflammatory kind attack the body and are believed to be a major driver of severe cases of Covid-19.

The promising results of studies have shown that inflammatory cytokines ... might be reduced by Ramadan fasting

Fasting during Ramadan could help a person's immune system fight infections such as Covid-19, a study showed.

Researchers said

fasting allowed the body to produce new white blood cells, rejuvenating the immune system.

In a study published in the journal Frontiers in Nutrition, the researchers suggested that fasting could reduce the harmful effects of inflammatory cytokines

Cytokines are essential to the immune system but the inflammatory kind attack the body and are believed to be a major driver of severe cases of Covid-19.

The wider benefits of fasting 

Dr Mohammed Arif, a specialist in internal medicine at Aster Hospital in Mankhool, Dubai, said fasting helped to boost a person's metabolism and their ability to tackle health problems such as high cholesterol and diabetes.

Fasting can even improve the effectiveness of cancer treatment.

"Studies show that people who underwent chemotherapy responded better while fasting," Dr Arif said.

But doctors emphasised the beneficial effects largely depend on what people eat when they break their fast.

Nutrient-rich foods such as nuts, fruit and vegetables should feature prominently in iftar and suhoor meals.

"When fasting, we need to maintain the balance between all micronutrients," said Dr Iffat Sultana, a specialist in internal medicine at NMC Royal Hospital in Dubai Investments Park.

“As a general rule, carbohydrates should be 55 per cent, proteins 25 per cent and fat should be 20 per cent.”

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  The streets of Abu Dhabi have been decorated with dazzling illuminations ahead of Ramadan. Victor Besa / The National

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  The decorative lights include beautiful Islamic designs inspired by the holy month. Victor Besa / The National

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  Hundreds of illuminated shapes have been hung throughout the capital, comprising thousands of colourful lights. Victor Besa / The National

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  The visually appealing, Ramadan-themed designs include crescent shapes and star-shaped pieces. Victor Besa / The National

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  There will also be illuminated lanterns hanging from trees and lamp posts. Victor Besa / The National

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  The decorations aim to provide a joyful setting that reflects the values of the holy month. Victor Besa / The National

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  The safety of pedestrians and the environment were taken into consideration before the decorations were hung. Victor Besa / The National

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  All cables have been safely secured and LED power-saving lights have been used. Victor Besa / The National

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  The lights will be turned on from Thursday, May 10, until the end of the Eid Al Fitr holiday. Victor Besa / The National

How to eat for your health during Ramadan

Vitamin C is an important immune booster, as is vitamin B6, said Dr Azeem Mohamad, a specialist in internal medicine at Bareen International Hospital in Mohamed bin Zayed City, Abu Dhabi.

Foods rich in vitamin E and omega-3 fatty acids can also be important parts of Ramadan diets.

“Remember, having healthy food and antioxidant rich foods will give your body enough strength to fight any infection,” Dr Arif said.

Foods that have high levels of sugar or salt and fried meals should be avoided, Dr Mohamad said.

Muslims can exercise as normal during the holy month and should aim to sleep for at least seven to eight hours a night.

Doctors in the Emirates also said it was safe for people to be vaccinated against Covid-19 while fasting.

Those fasting should also drink at least two litres of water after the daily fast breaks.

Despite the benefits of fasting, Ramadan can be a busy time for hospitals and clinics across the country.

Doctors have said it is not uncommon for patients who are managing existing conditions to fall ill after breaking their fast at sunset.

The most common admissions are of people with chronic conditions like diabetes, hypertension, asthma and epilepsy.