Fasting in the month of Ramadan is one of the obligations of Muslims around the world. Although pregnant women have the leeway not to fast, but actually this worshipcan still be done if the condition of the pregnant woman's body, the womb, and the fetus in the womb healthy.
One study conducted on pregnant women showed that fasting during Ramadan did not affect the weight, length, and size of the fetal head. However, there is a slight increase in the risk of babies being born with low birth weight when pregnant women undergo fasting in the second and third trimesters of pregnancy.
If a pregnant woman who is going to fast has a normal weight, a good lifestyle, and gets adequate nutrition, then fasting will not have much effect on the fetus, because the pregnant woman's body can still meet the nutrients needed by the fetus.
Fasting Tips bfor pregnant women
The following are some fasting tips for pregnant women to stay fit and the fetus remains healthy:
- Stay calm and avoid stress during fasting. Research shows that pregnant women who fast have higher levels of stress hormones, and this can have an adverse effect on their health and that of their fetus.
- Avoid lifting heavy weights or walking too far. If necessary, reduce tiring household activities. If you feel tired, try to relax and take a break.
- For pregnant women who work, check whether the office can reduce working hours or provide additional rest time during the fasting month.
- Food choices at suhoor and iftar are very important for pregnant women who consume foods that contain complex carbohydrates and fiber, such as whole grains, vegetables, and dried fruit.
- Avoid sugary foods because they can make blood sugar levels rise and fall quickly. Changes in blood sugar levels that are too fast can cause weakness and dizziness.
- Meet protein needs from nuts, eggs, fish, and cooked meat.
- Limit high-fat and ready-to-eat foods.
- Still, meet the needs of drinking water per day, which is about 1.5-2 liters each at dawn and iftar. Avoid drinking caffeinated drinks, such as tea and coffee, because they risk causing dehydration.
Pregnant women who fast should be aware of symptoms of conditions that may harm the fetus, such as dizziness, fever, vomiting, weakness, tiredness, dry lips, or feeling very thirsty. These various symptoms can indicate that a pregnant woman is dehydrated.
Also be aware if there is weight loss in pregnant women who are fasting, reduced fetal movement in the womb, and abdominal pain such as contractions. If you experience this, pregnant women need to immediately consult a gynecologist.
