Ramadan Health Guide: How to Stay Healthy While Fasting in Ghana

Ramadan is a sacred month of reflection, discipline, and spiritual growth. While fasting brings spiritual benefits, it is equally important to protect your physical health, especially in Ghana’s warm climate.

This guide will help you stay healthy, energized, and safe throughout the fasting period.

 Stay Hydrated Between Iftar and Suhoor

Ghana’s heat can quickly lead to dehydration during fasting hours. Since you cannot drink water during the day, proper hydration at night becomes essential.

Why Hydration Matters

Dehydration can cause:

• Headaches

• Dizziness

• Fatigue

• Low blood pressure

Smart Hydration Tips

• Drink water gradually after breaking your fast, do not wait until bedtime

• Aim for 6 to 8 glasses between Iftar and Suhoor

• Reduce sugary drinks and fizzy beverages

• Include water-rich fruits like watermelon, oranges, and pineapple

• Add coconut water occasionally for natural electrolytes

 Managing Medications During Ramadan

If you are on prescribed medication, fasting can affect how and when you take it.

Common Conditions That Need Careful Monitoring

• Hypertension medication

• Diabetes medication

• Ulcer treatment

• Asthma medication

• Thyroid medication

 Do not stop or adjust your medication without professional guidance.

Fasting may require:

• Adjusting dosage timing

• Switching to longer-acting medications

• Monitoring blood sugar more closely

For example:

• Diabetic patients may need dosage adjustments to prevent low blood sugar

• Blood pressure medication timing may need review

 Visit Hale Pharmacy for professional medication timing guidance tailored to your condition.

 Avoid Heartburn and Ulcer Flare-Ups

Heartburn and ulcer symptoms are common during Ramadan due to long hours without food followed by heavy meals.

Why It Happens

• Long empty stomach increases acid production

• Spicy and pepper-rich foods at Iftar

• Overeating after breaking fast

• Fried foods

Prevention Tips

• Break your fast with light foods like dates and water

• Eat moderate portions

• Reduce excessive pepper and oily foods

• Avoid lying down immediately after eating

• Include oats, rice, boiled yam, or light soups

If symptoms persist, consider doctor-recommended antacids or ulcer medications.

Hale Pharmacy stocks trusted medications that can help manage heartburn and protect your stomach during Ramadan.

 Skincare During Ramadan

Fasting combined with Ghana’s heat can affect your skin.

Common Skin Issues During Ramadan

• Dry skin

• Breakouts

• Dark spots

• Sun damage

When the body is slightly dehydrated, skin loses moisture easily.

Simple Skincare Routine

• Use a gentle cleanser morning and night

• Apply a hydrating moisturizer

• Use sunscreen daily, even while fasting

• Avoid heavy makeup in extreme heat

• Drink enough water during non-fasting hours

Supplements like Vitamin C and Zinc can also support skin health.

Hale Pharmacy offers skincare products suited for Ghana’s climate and sensitive skin.

 When NOT to Fast

Islam prioritizes health and safety. You may be exempt from fasting if you:

• Have uncontrolled diabetes

• Are severely ill

• Are pregnant and medically advised not to fast

• Have serious heart or kidney conditions

• Are elderly and medically fragile

Your health comes first. Always consult a doctor before deciding to fast if you have a chronic condition.

Final Thoughts: Prioritize Your Health This Ramadan

Ramadan is about spiritual discipline, not harming your health. With proper hydration, smart eating, medication guidance, and skincare care, you can fast safely and comfortably.

At Hale Pharmacy, we are here to support you throughout Ramadan.

Visit us for:

• Professional medication advice

• Diabetes and hypertension monitoring

• Ulcer and heartburn treatment

• Supplements for energy and immunity

• Skincare products suited for Ghana’s climate

Let us help you stay healthy while you focus on what matters most this Ramadan.