Dietary and Lifestyle Changes During Ramadan Fasting Month
摘要
During the holy month of Ramadan, Muslims worldwide observe fasting—one of the Five Pillars of Islam—by abstaining from all food and fluid from dawn until dusk each day throughout the month. It is reasonable to anticipate that the exclusive eating period during night-time during Ramadan will lead to a noticeable change in normal lifestyle activities. Such changes include dietary and sleep patterns. Meal times shift entirely to the night, with the frequency typically limited to two main meals: one just before dawn and another after sunset. The restrictions on meal timing and frequency may lead to changes in caloric intake, dietary composition, and food selections. However, the extent of these changes can vary widely depending on numerous factors, including geographical location and cultural habits. Ramadan fasting can also influence the regular sleep–wake cycle aligned with the solar day, leading to notable alterations in sleep patterns and quality. These changes manifest as decreased sleep duration, elevated sleep disturbances, modifications in sleep architecture, and overall impacts on sleep quality. Findings regarding lifestyle changes during Ramadan derived from a specific cultural or national context may not be universally applicable, emphasizing the need for cross-cultural research to enhance generalizability.