Prepared by: Dr. Dawn Abdullah Nasser
Breastfeeding is one of the most important factors that contribute to the health of the mother and the child, as it provides the infant optimum nutrition, and enhances its immunity against diseases. With the advent of the month of Ramadan, many breastfeeding mothers wonder about the possibility of fasting, its impact on their health and the health of their children.
* The effect of fasting on breastfeeding:
The effect of fasting on breastfeeding varies from mother to mother, depending on its health condition, its diet, age of the child, and the amount of milk produced. In some cases, fasting may not significantly affect breastfeeding, while some mothers may suffer from a lack of milk generation due to the lack of eating fluids and food during the fasting hours.
* Tips for breastfeeding during Ramadan:
1- Attention to balanced nutrition: The nursing mother must eat meals rich in proteins, healthy fats, and complex carbohydrates, in addition to the vitamins and minerals necessary to maintain their energy and generate milk.
2- Frequent fluid: It is recommended to drink sufficient amounts of water and healthy fluids between breakfast and suhoor to make up for fluid loss during the day.
Take care to drink drinks that help increase the generation of milk (fenugreek, fennel, anise) and stay away from stimulant drinks, which reduce the generation such as (coffee, tea, and alabaster).
3- Avoid fried foods full of sugars: These foods may lead to dehydration and increase the feeling of thirst and fatigue.
– Delaying Suhoor meal before constipation and containing foods rich in proteins, calcium and carbohydrates to provide it with energy during the day.
– Expediting breakfast with dates and milk and then a variety of healthy and balanced foods.
4- Sufficient comfort: Getting a good amount of sleep helps to maintain the energy of the mother and reduce stress. Especially during the day
– Collect the milk that is lifted during the breakfast period and give it to the infant during the day.
5- Listen to your body: If you feel extremely exhausted or a lack of milk, it is better to consult a doctor, as Islam permits breakfast for breastfeeding if she is afraid of herself, or on her baby.
* When is the breakfast?
If you notice signs of dehydration such as dizziness, severe headaches, or a clear deficiency in milk, breakfast may be necessary to maintain your health and healthy health.
– If the child is smaller than six months, and depends completely on exclusive breastfeeding.
– If the mother is afraid of herself, or her infant of fasting for any medical reason, you can consult a doctor or specialist to assess your condition and make the appropriate decision.
In conclusion, the breastfeeding mother can fast if she is able to do so without a negative impact on her health or the health of her infant, but the priority must be for her health and feed her child well, and calculate the wage in breastfeeding the child, as it is worship and benefit.
* Family Medicine Consultant – International Breastfeeding Consultant – Member of the Friends of Health Association
