Doctors and specialists at Hamad Medical Corporation stressed that excessive eating at Iftar during the month of Ramadan or during the nights of the holy month, especially if these meals contain fried foods and foods high in sugars, negatively affect the quality of sleep that an individual gets.
Senior Consultant in Medicine specializing in Pulmonary, Allergy and Sleep Medicine at HMC Aisha Hussain told Qatar News Agency (QNA) that many fasting people tend to eat large meals during iftar. She stressed however that eating in moderation in eating and avoiding large meals, especially before bedtime, is an important factor in ensuring a good sleep. She added that those fasting Ramadan must also maintain a regular pattern of sleeping and eating during the month of Ramadan, despite the lifestyle changes that occur during the month. She added that this was especially important for people who have previously had sleep problems and disorders.
She pointed out that many people face some difficulties in coping with changing sleeping and eating times in Ramadan, and she explained that the sleep disorders clinic in Hamad General Hospital usually witnesses an increase in the number of patients referred to it every year after Ramadan, explaining that about 40 patients are referred to the clinic per week for evaluation.
She added that changing meal times and their quality can affect the body’s biological clock and affect sleep schedules, making it difficult for a person to sleep at certain times, and feeling tired and exhausted at others.
She explained that changing the sleep pattern can cause an increased feeling of sleepiness, headaches and mood swings, especially if the person fails to prepare for these changes gradually by gradually resetting the sleeping and waking times and reducing the consumption of caffeinated drinks.
She said those observing Ramadan should adjust their sleep schedules by sticking to regular practices before bed that help relax. Such practices could be reciting or listening to verses from the Holy Quran, taking a warm bath before bed or practicing some light yoga exercises, and avoiding using electronic devices such as mobile phones when going to bed. She said it is much better completely turn off these devices at least 30 minutes before bedtime, ensure that the room temperature is appropriate, sleep in a cool, quiet and comfortable place, and not worry about the number of hours of sleep that the individual sleeps, as anxiety and tension about the need to sleep for the optimal number of hours makes it harder for the body to fall asleep.
Source: Qatar News Agency