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Ramzan is a holy month that requires dedication towards persistent prayer, self-discipline, and spiritual reflection. However, there can be challenges like dehydration and tall fasting hours for people suffering from migraines. During Ramzan, the sudden changes in sleep patterns and meal timings along with prolonged fasting can easily lead to headaches and difficulty in making it through the month.
Dr. Lomesh Bhirud, a neurologist and neuro-interventionalist at Ruby Hall Clinic in Pune explains that with proper preparations, even those with migraines should be able to fast while keeping their health in mind. He also claims that optimal planning, proper hydration, ideal and balanced meals can result in a headache free period of fasting. His explanation of the triggers migraines during fasting further outlines this, “Low blood sugar, dehydration, caffeine withdrawal and even sleep disturbances can set off migraines. These indeed make fasting seem impossible for anyone suffering from migraines.”
Dehydration: As a hydration deficiency, especially when left untreated, is one of the leading causes of fasting-induced headaches, Dr Bhirud suggests drinking 8-10 glasses of water between Iftar and Suhoor. The body naturally slows down the blood supply to the brain. Additional hydrating foods, such as watermelon, oranges, cucumbers, and yogurt, can be eaten with meals for an additional boost, Dr. Bhirud states. Salted, fried, and processed foods, which stimulate loss of water, should be avoided and replaced with coconut water and electrolyte drinks.
Balanced nutrition: Properly nutritious meals are as well vital for avoiding migraines while fasting, meals during Suhoor being especially important for providing energy sustenance during the fasting period. “A well-structured Suhoor consisting of complex carbohydrates like oats, whole grains, and brown rice provides a slow release of energy. Coupling them with protein-rich foods, lentils, yogurt, and eggs will prolong the feeling of satiety whilst healthy fat sources, like avocado, nuts and seeds, will fuel for prolonged hours,” says Dr. Bhirud.
Sugary foods and beverages: Avoiding sweetened foods and drinks are vital as well to stop the rapid spikes and plummets in blood sugar levels, the other widespread migraine-inducing factor that occurs during Suhoor.
Caffeine withdrawal: Caffeine addiction is real, even for specialists in the field like Dr Bhirud. “ During Ramadan, it is another worry, particularly for people who habitually take tea or coffee. However, withdrawal from caffeine can cause headaches. To ease the withdrawal effects, stop caffeine consumption a few days prior to the start of Ramadan. Switch to herbal teas or green tea which have lesser caffeine content and help during headaches,” he says.
Disrupted sleep patterns: Sleep that is already inadequate can worsen migraine symptoms while fasting. “The unregulated schedule of the night praying, coupled with early morning Suhoor, can mason a brain prone to headaches,” explains Dr Bhirud. Between 6 to 8 hours of sleep every night, and a few short naps before Iftar to compensate for sleep, is what he recommends.
Limit screen time: Cut out the screen before you go to bed. Consistently adhering to a darkened sleep pattern with mild temperatures can help improve sleep and lower the risk of migraines.
Fried, Oily, and Spicy Foods: The Characteristics of Elevating Blood Sugar and Blood Sugar Slow Down the Recovery process. Refraining from eating during the Holy Month of Ramadan can stimulate migraine attacks in patients who are susceptible to them. Dr. Bhirud recommends that people suffering from poor eating habits dip into low blood sugar complaints after iftar and suggesting avoiding overindulgence.
Stress & Fatigue: Alongside the increased level of anxiety these types of activities culminate in a progression of migraine attacks. Fasting and praying can leave some individuals fatigued. Dr. Bhirud advises that people should practice breathing exercises and stretching to relax. Splitting the time during which one engages in spiritual activities allows the rest periods in which one can disengage from most activities.
Medication: Providing relief during these meals may be an option but it is crucial to consult with the doctor. Treating fasting some may cope with through sleeping (excessive napping). According to Dr. Bhirud, during fasting, one is highly recommended to use medication or worried for people who become a migraine sufferer while fasting.
Read More: Health Benefits of Soaked Almonds: Why You Should Eat Them Daily
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