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Fasting Ramadan During COVID-19 Pandemic: Immunomodulatory Effect
Taghreed Abunada1, Hanan Abunada2, Hatem Zayed1
1Biomedical Science Department, College of Health Sciences, QU-Health, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar.
Frontiers in Nutrition
|November 26, 2020
Summary
Fasting during Ramadan may offer health benefits against COVID-19. This review explores the scientific evidence supporting the advantages of intermittent fasting for healthy adults during the pandemic.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Infectious Diseases
- Public Health
Background:
- Over 1.6 billion Muslims worldwide observe Ramadan fasting.
- The COVID-19 pandemic raised questions about the safety of fasting for Muslims.
- Understanding the potential benefits of fasting during this period is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the scientific evidence on the advantages of fasting during Ramadan.
- To assess the safety and potential benefits of fasting in the context of COVID-19.
- To provide insights for healthy adult Muslims observing Ramadan during the pandemic.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of existing scientific studies.
- Analysis of immunological and physiological effects of fasting.
- Examination of data related to viral infections and fasting.
Main Results:
- Fasting may enhance immune function and reduce inflammation.
- Intermittent fasting has shown potential antiviral properties.
- Evidence suggests fasting could be safe and potentially beneficial for healthy adults during COVID-19.
Conclusions:
- Fasting during Ramadan may offer protective effects against COVID-19.
- Further research is warranted to fully understand the implications of fasting during pandemics.
- Healthy Muslims can consider fasting during Ramadan with appropriate precautions.
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