YOGYAKARTA - Fasting in the month of Ramadan is an obligation for all Muslims. However, there are several groups that get relief from not fasting, one of which is pregnant women and breastfeeding mothers.
Even so, there are pregnant women who still want to fast. Can pregnant women fast?
If the condition of the mother and fetus is declared healthy by a doctor, then fasting is still allowed. However, pregnant women must ensure that nutritional intake during sahur and breaking the fast is still fulfilled so that the health of the mother and the development of the fetus remain optimal.
Can Fast As Long As You Meet The Needs Of Nutrition During Sahur And Opening
When fasting, pregnant women must pay attention to a healthy diet, especially during sahur and breaking the fast. Consumption of foods rich in nutrients such as carbohydrates, animal and vegetable protein, healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals is highly recommended. By meeting these nutritional needs, the development of the fetus is well maintained.
When breaking the fast and dawn, pregnant women should not overeat sweet foods. Although sweet foods can help restore declining blood sugar levels, consuming them in large quantities can actually cause sugar levels to drop drastically afterward.
A healthier alternative is to eat fruits that contain natural sugar and have high water levels to help avoid dehydration. In addition, pregnant women are also advised to increase the intake of water during breaking time so that the body remains hydrated. Do not forget to take vitamins or special milk for pregnant women so that the condition of the body and the fetus remains healthy.
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Conditions That Prohibit Pregnant Women From Fasting
Although allowed, there are certain medical conditions that make pregnant women should not fast. Some of them are:
1. Pregnant women with diabetes mellitus
Pregnant women with diabetes need to keep blood sugar levels stable with regular diets and drug consumption as recommended by doctors. Fasting can cause blood sugar imbalance, so for pregnant women with diabetes, you should first consult with medical personnel before deciding to fast.
2. Experiencing spots or bleeding
If pregnant women experience spots or bleeding, they should not continue fasting because it can worsen these conditions. In addition, prolonged bleeding can affect fetal health and are at risk of gestational development.
3. Experiencing digestive disorders
Diseases related to the digestive system, such as ulcers, can worsen if pregnant women continue to fast. This disorder not only has an impact on the mother, but can also affect the health of the fetus in the womb. Therefore, if you experience digestive problems, it is better for pregnant women to reconsider the decision to fast.
4. Dehydration due to morning sickness
In the first trimester of pregnancy, many pregnant women experience morning visits which are characterized by frequent nausea and vomiting. If vomiting occurs too often, the body can become dehydrated because many fluids are wasted. Pregnant women who experience this condition are advised to drink more water and eat fluid-rich foods to stay hydrated.
Benefits Of Fasting For Pregnant Women
If the condition of pregnant women is possible to fast, there are several benefits that can be obtained, including:
I. Control weight while pregnant
Pregnant women tend to feel faster hungry so they risk excessive weight gain. By fasting, the diet becomes more regular, so that weight gain can be more controlled.
II. Improve the body's metabolism
Fasting is believed to help improve the body's metabolism. During fasting, the body performs a cleaning process of remnant substances and increases the function of metabolic organs.
III. Lower the risk of diabetes
One of the benefits of fasting is lowering blood sugar levels and improving insulin performance. Thus, fasting pregnant women have a lower risk of developing gestational diabetes.
IV. Maintain heart health
Fasting can help reduce the risk of diseases such as hypertension, high cholesterol, and heart problems. However, these benefits still require further research to ensure its impact on pregnant women.
After knowing the benefits and risks of fasting for pregnant women, each mother-to-be can consider the decision to fast or not. If in doubt, consultation with an obstetrician is highly recommended so that the health condition of the mother and fetus is maintained during fasting.
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