Health Update: tips from a wellness expert – What Experts Say

Wellness expert Ronald Abvajee recently addressed the effects of Ramadan fasting on women living with endometriosis during an appearance on INX Prime earlier this month.

Speaking about the spiritual and social importance of Ramadan, Abvajee said, “Connecting with family, connecting with the Ummah, connecting for those that go to the mosque for Taraweeh, for those that are at home, reading the Quran, you connect with each other, but also with yourself, and especially spiritually.”

He explained that fasting, while spiritually meaningful, can present unique challenges for women with endometriosis.

“The often-neglected part is that you are also creating an awareness and have the opportunity to connect with yourself physically, mentally, emotionally and physically. When you look at that, the month of Ramadan is difficult for women living with endometriosis.”

Abvajee broke down the physiological challenges of fasting for those affected by the condition.

“One, there’s a hydration issue. You’re not drinking any fluids from sunrise to sunset. Number two, you are not eating during that period. What do those two things link to? They link to an increase in physiological stress on the body.

“Physiological stress leads to an increase in cortisol, which is a stress hormone.”

“Cortisol leads to inflammation. And we know that inflammation exacerbates pain. Because of the lack of hydration, it also increases the pain receptor sensitivity. It dulls the pain receptors to a degree so that you can push through, which exacerbates the impact of endometriosis.”

He emphasised that these effects make the fasting period particularly challenging.

“It is difficult. It is painful. It is debilitating and compounded exponentially more than out of the month of Ramadan,” Abvajee said.

Abvajee also highlighted the role of sleep during Ramadan.

“Sleep is critically important. With broken sleep, what happens is that you increase the body’s inflammation response; you’re not resting enough.”

“Earlier, we had someone speaking about sleep, and when they spoke about sleep, yes, you’ve got to watch what you’re eating at particular times, especially at Iftar time and at Sehri time. But the impact of sleep can increase the stress hormone because you’re not resting enough.”

He advised that women with endometriosis carefully manage hydration, nutrition and rest during the holy month.

“Pay attention to how you break your fast, what you eat, how much water you take in when you can and ensure that you rest. These small adjustments can help manage inflammation and reduce discomfort.”

Abvajee concluded by stressing the holistic benefits of Ramadan.

“The spiritual connection is vital, but physical awareness is equally important. Ramadan offers a chance to reflect, connect and care for yourself on multiple levels. Understanding your body’s limits can make the experience more sustainable and meaningful.”