Fasting during the month of Ramadan increases the risk of dehydration, as the body continues to lose water and salts through breathing, sweating, and urination throughout the day, especially if fasting is in the summer. The amount of water loss varies depending on the weather, the amount of water you drink after breakfast, the degree of physical activity, and the kidney’s ability to retain water and salts.
The groups most at risk of dehydration during fasting are:
- Children and the elderly.
- People with chronic diseases, such as diabetes and kidney disease.
- Pregnant and breastfeeding women.
- Those who exercise under the sun.
- People with diseases accompanied by diarrhea, vomiting, high fever, or increased urination.
- Those who take diuretics.
Symptoms of dehydration during fasting:
Symptoms vary depending on the severity of dehydration, and start with:
- Severe dry mouth.
- Feeling unwell and lethargic.
- Lack of concentration.
- Excessive sleep.
- Muscle cramps.
- Dizziness and confusion, which may lead to fainting.
First aid in case of dehydration:
- When unable to stand due to dizziness, or when feeling confused, you should drink water immediately, preferably with added sugar and salt, or an oral rehydration solution, to compensate for the loss of salt in the body.
- When fainting occurs due to dehydration, the injured person should be placed on his back, and his feet should be raised until he wakes up, and when he wakes up, give him water immediately, as mentioned above.
Methods for preventing dehydration during fasting:- Make sure to drink enough water (at least 10) cups, distributed between breakfast and suhoor.
- Eat soup daily during the month of Ramadan, as it contains a high percentage of fluids.
- Eat fruits and vegetables, such as: watermelon, cucumber, grapes, and pineapple, as they contain a high percentage of water, which helps reduce thirst.
- Avoid consuming too much salt, whether in cooking, while eating, or in other foods, such as pickles and sauces, because they increase the feeling of thirst.
- Limit the consumption of drinks that contain caffeine, such as tea and coffee, because they are diuretic and lead to water loss from the body.
- Avoid exposure to sunlight as much as possible, and exercise during daylight hours to reduce sweating and fluid loss from the body.