Patient Relations
February 20, 2025
The holy month of Ramadan and the festival of Eid al-Fitr are joyous occasions for Muslims around the world. However, if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, you may have concerns about how to observe these occasions while maintaining your health and the wellbeing of your baby.
Dr. Greer Barlow, Senior Nursing Director of the Women and Children Department at Johns Hopkins Aramco Healthcare (JHAH), shares some tips to help navigate this special time.
Before deciding to fast, it is crucial to consult your healthcare provider. They can assess your health and provide personalized advice based on your specific circumstances. Pregnant and breastfeeding women are exempt from fasting if it poses any risk to their health or their baby’s wellbeing.
Dehydration is a significant concern during fasting, especially for pregnant women. Ensure you drink plenty of water during non-fasting hours. Aim for at least three liters of water between Iftar (the meal to break the fast) and Suhoor (the pre-dawn meal). Avoid caffeinated and sugary drinks, as they can contribute to dehydration.
Focus on consuming nutrient-dense foods during Suhoor and Iftar. Include a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Foods rich in iron, calcium, and folic acid are particularly important during pregnancy. Avoid excessive consumption of sweets and fried foods, which can lead to indigestion and unnecessary weight gain.
Pay close attention to how your body responds to fasting. If you experience dizziness, fatigue, headaches, or any other concerning symptoms, it is essential to break your fast and seek medical advice immediately. Your health and your baby’s health should always come first.
Ensure you get plenty of rest during the day. Fasting can be physically demanding, so adequate rest is crucial to maintain your energy levels. Engage in light activities and avoid strenuous tasks. Managing stress through relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing or gentle yoga, can also be beneficial.
Breastfeeding mothers need to ensure they maintain an adequate milk supply. This requires staying well-hydrated and consuming enough calories. Drink plenty of fluids during non-fasting hours and eat a balanced diet rich in nutrients. Foods like oats, fenugreek, and leafy greens can help boost milk production.
Breastfeed your baby more frequently during non-fasting hours to ensure they are getting enough milk. This can help compensate for any potential decrease in milk supply during fasting hours. If you notice a significant drop in milk production, consider breaking your fast and consulting your JHAH lactation specialist or healthcare provider.
Keep a close eye on your baby’s health and feeding patterns. If your baby seems unusually fussy, is not gaining weight, or shows signs of dehydration, it may be necessary to adjust your fasting routine or stop fasting altogether.
Eid is a time of celebration, often marked by feasting on delicious foods. While it is important to enjoy the festivities, pregnant and breastfeeding mothers should be mindful of their dietary choices. Opt for balanced meals that include a variety of nutrients. Limit your intake of sugary and fatty foods, which can lead to digestive issues and unnecessary weight gain.
Continue to prioritize hydration during Eid celebrations. Drink plenty of water throughout the day, especially if you are breastfeeding. Avoid sugary drinks and sodas, which can contribute to dehydration and provide empty calories.
Enjoy Eid treats in moderation. It is perfectly fine to indulge in your favorite dishes but be mindful of portion sizes. Balance indulgent foods with healthier options like fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins.
Eid can be a busy time with family gatherings and social events. Ensure you get enough rest and avoid overexerting yourself. Take breaks when needed and listen to your body’s signals. Prioritizing your wellbeing will help you enjoy the celebrations without compromising your health.
Before deciding to fast, it is crucial to consult your healthcare provider. They can assess your health and provide personalized advice based on your specific circumstances. Pregnant and breastfeeding women are exempt from fasting if it poses any risk to their health or their baby’s wellbeing.
Dehydration is a significant concern during fasting, especially for pregnant women. Ensure you drink plenty of water during non-fasting hours. Aim for at least three liters of water between Iftar (the meal to break the fast) and Suhoor (the pre-dawn meal). Avoid caffeinated and sugary drinks, as they can contribute to dehydration.
Focus on consuming nutrient-dense foods during Suhoor and Iftar. Include a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Foods rich in iron, calcium, and folic acid are particularly important during pregnancy. Avoid excessive consumption of sweets and fried foods, which can lead to indigestion and unnecessary weight gain.
Pay close attention to how your body responds to fasting. If you experience dizziness, fatigue, headaches, or any other concerning symptoms, it is essential to break your fast and seek medical advice immediately. Your health and your baby’s health should always come first.
Ensure you get plenty of rest during the day. Fasting can be physically demanding, so adequate rest is crucial to maintain your energy levels. Engage in light activities and avoid strenuous tasks. Managing stress through relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing or gentle yoga, can also be beneficial.
Breastfeeding mothers need to ensure they maintain an adequate milk supply. This requires staying well-hydrated and consuming enough calories. Drink plenty of fluids during non-fasting hours and eat a balanced diet rich in nutrients. Foods like oats, fenugreek, and leafy greens can help boost milk production.
Breastfeed your baby more frequently during non-fasting hours to ensure they are getting enough milk. This can help compensate for any potential decrease in milk supply during fasting hours. If you notice a significant drop in milk production, consider breaking your fast and consulting your JHAH lactation specialist or healthcare provider.
Keep a close eye on your baby’s health and feeding patterns. If your baby seems unusually fussy, is not gaining weight, or shows signs of dehydration, it may be necessary to adjust your fasting routine or stop fasting altogether.
Eid is a time of celebration, often marked by feasting on delicious foods. While it is important to enjoy the festivities, pregnant and breastfeeding mothers should be mindful of their dietary choices. Opt for balanced meals that include a variety of nutrients. Limit your intake of sugary and fatty foods, which can lead to digestive issues and unnecessary weight gain.
Continue to prioritize hydration during Eid celebrations. Drink plenty of water throughout the day, especially if you are breastfeeding. Avoid sugary drinks and sodas, which can contribute to dehydration and provide empty calories.
Enjoy Eid treats in moderation. It is perfectly fine to indulge in your favorite dishes but be mindful of portion sizes. Balance indulgent foods with healthier options like fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins.
Eid can be a busy time with family gatherings and social events. Ensure you get enough rest and avoid overexerting yourself. Take breaks when needed and listen to your body’s signals. Prioritizing your wellbeing will help you enjoy the celebrations without compromising your health.
Observing Ramadan and celebrating Eid while pregnant or breastfeeding requires careful planning and consideration. By consulting your healthcare provider, staying hydrated, eating a balanced diet, and listening to your body, you can ensure a healthy and fulfilling experience. Remember: your health and your baby’s health are paramount, and it is essential to make decisions that prioritize your wellbeing.
Our expert healthcare professionals are here to support you. If you have specific health concerns, we encourage you to consult your physician. Schedule an appointment through MyChart or call 800 305 4444
Do you have a question for a JHAH clinician about health, diet, or wellbeing during Ramadan and Eid? If you do, fill out the form below - completely anonymously - and we will seek to answer your question in an article published here.