All Muslims are required to fast from dawn to dusk for 30 days during the holy month of Ramadan, which is the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar. On the Gregorian calendar of the solar system, Ramadan advances by about 11 days annually, so Muslims observe Ramadan at various times of the year throughout their lives.
Why do people fast during Ramadan?
The fasting is intended to remind Muslims of the disadvantaged and reinforce the need for gratitude. As one of his five pillars or obligations of Islam, fasting during Ramadan is obligatory for all healthy adult Muslims.
The elderly, those who are physically or psychologically unable of fasting, young children who have not yet reached puberty, women who are pregnant or nursing, and people who are on the go are exceptions. When someone fasts during Ramadan, they refrain from eating or drinking anything between dawn and sunset, even water and gum.
Muslims are advised to take a pre-fasting meal called suhoor before dawn. This meal often resembles breakfast, but it may include more dinner-like food in some cultures. After sunset, Muslims break the fast with iftar. Dinner is typically served after dates and water or milk in the morning. Between these two meals in the evening, Muslims are permitted to nibble and are advised to remain hydrated, particularly if Ramadan occurs in the heat.
Fasting and blurred vision
Fasting during Ramadan includes not eating for hours or limiting yourself to one or two meals daily. It is similar to intermittent fasting. Yet according to the eye doctors in Dubai, intermittent fasting can cause your blood sugar to fluctuate up and down like any calorie-restricted diet.
When you go without food for a long time, such as during fasting, your body may run out of energy and your blood sugar levels may fall, she explains. No, although blood sugar levels at the lower end of the normal range can make you tremble, feel fatigued, and make you feel sleepy in your mind.
If you notice vision problems after starting a new eating plan, it doesn’t mean you should stop dieting. Anytime you have blurred vision, you should see your doctor to determine the cause, and diet should be adjusted to prevent further deterioration of fluid status.
Consult an eye specialist for vision treatment.
Guidelines for maintaining eye health during Ramadan
Proper lifestyle, including exercise, diet, hydration, sun protection, sleep, and regular check-ups (especially in older and younger families) are central to eye health.
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Hydration
For those fasting during Ramadan, ensure she drinks 2.5 liters of water before and after fasting to stay hydrated. Dehydration can cause or make dry eyes worse.
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Sleep
Lack of sleep during Ramadan can cause eye problems for those who observe the fast. At least she recommends six hours of sleep. Failure to do so can lead to dry and tired eyes.
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Fasting and eating well for good eyesight
To protect your eyes, start with a balanced diet with special attention to nutrients such as omega-3 fatty acids, lutein, zinc, and vitamins C and E. Studies show that these nutrients are good for the eyes and may help prevent age-related vision problems such as macular degeneration and delayed cataracts.
During suhoor and iftar, keep your eyes healthy by balancing your diet and eating the following foods regularly.
- Salmon, tuna, and other fatty fish
- Eggs, almonds, beans, and other types of plant-based protein
- Oranges, other citrus fruits or juices;
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Don’t skip any exercise
Exercise is beneficial for general health and lowers the risk of a number of common eye conditions, including glaucoma, age-related macular degeneration, and cataracts. It reduces intraocular pressure, a significant contributor to eye illness. High blood pressure and excessive cholesterol are other factors that contribute to vision issues and eye illnesses. Moreover, exercise improves blood flow to the retina and optic nerve. The two most significant actions you can do to decrease both are eating a healthy diet and exercising frequently.
Tips to Avoid Blurred Vision During Ramadan
During Ramadan, blurred vision can be a common complaint, often linked to dehydration, fluctuating blood sugar levels, or prolonged screen exposure during non-fasting hours. To avoid this issue, maintaining adequate hydration is crucial—ensure you drink plenty of water between Iftar and Suhoor. Avoid excessive caffeine, which can dehydrate the body, and consume a balanced diet rich in vitamins A, C, and E, found in foods like leafy greens and carrots. Proper sleep is also essential to reduce eye strain and maintain healthy vision. For those who wear contact lenses, consider switching to glasses if dryness becomes a problem during fasting hours.
How Lifestyle Choices Impact Eye Health During Fasting
Lifestyle choices during Ramadan have a significant impact on eye health. Extended screen time after Iftar for work, entertainment, or prayers on digital devices can cause digital eye strain. Following the 20-20-20 rule—looking at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds every 20 minutes—helps alleviate this strain. Additionally, diet plays a major role; foods high in sugars and processed fats can contribute to eye-related issues over time. Incorporating antioxidant-rich foods during meals aids in protecting eye tissues. Maintaining a regular sleep schedule supports eye health, as the eyes need rest just like the rest of the body. Mindful fasting combined with a balanced lifestyle ensures optimal eye health throughout Ramadan.
People Also Ask
Why does fasting cause blurry vision during Ramadan?
Fasting may lead to dehydration and blood sugar fluctuations, both of which can cause or worsen blurry vision.
How can I prevent dry eyes while fasting during Ramadan?
Ensure adequate hydration during non-fasting hours, consume omega-3-rich foods, and use moisturizing eye drops as needed.
What foods should I eat during suhoor and iftar to maintain healthy eyesight?
Include foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin C, lutein, zinc, and other eye-friendly nutrients, such as fish, eggs, citrus fruits, and leafy greens.
Can lack of sleep during Ramadan affect my vision?
Yes, insufficient sleep can cause eye strain, dry eyes, and blurry vision. Aim for at least six hours of sleep daily.
When should I see a doctor for blurry vision during Ramadan?
Consult an eye specialist if blurry vision persists or worsens, which may indicate underlying conditions requiring professional attention.
Conclusion
Several studies have examined how fasting affects different ocular metrics, but none have included individuals with glaucoma, ocular vascular damage, lacrimal gland dysfunction, or low vision. Or there are only limited ones. Such studies are necessary to make definitive decisions before declaring fasting safe for these patients.
Further scientific studies on eye issues associated with Ramadan fasting are essential, considering that hundreds of millions observe this practice annually. Healthcare professionals working with Muslims in critical areas must recognize the physiological changes experienced during Ramadan and how fasting affects different eye conditions and treatments. It’s important to consult the premier eye doctor in Dubai for expert guidance and care.
