Muslims traditionally fast during Ramadan, whilst Christians may fast for Lent. For pregnant women and breastfeeding mums however, it is important to know whether your health – and the health of your baby – is at stake. Is fasting during pregnancy safe? What about when you’re breastfeeding? Can you fast during pregnancy? All the answers are here.
Fasting during pregnancy is a very delicate balance.
Some studies show that fasting for long periods of time can have certain outcomes. For instance, it can cause the production of ketone bodies. Also, the molecules that our livers produce during periods of low food intake might have a negative impact on the fetus. This applies to both fasting hours or simply not eating for long periods of time.
Having said that, no two pregnancies are exactly alike. The most important thing to do here is to consult your doctor before considering whether to fast or not. It may depend on many factors. Such as the trimester you are in or any underlying medical conditions you and your baby might have.
Read Can Women with Gestational Diabetes Fast?
Regardless of what you and your doctor decide, staying hydrated is vital. Water plays an essential role so at no point should you stop drinking water. Dehydration has been known to lead to low amniotic fluid, preterm labor and congenital disabilities. If you and your doctor agree that fasting during pregnancy is safe for you, make sure you drink a minimum of two liters of water a day. Make sure to avoid any overly strenuous activity that may cause a loss of fluids.
This is especially relevant in the UAE where the temperatures are slowly creeping up towards 30+ Celsius.
Read Stay Happy and Healthy This Ramadan
Now with regards to fasting when breastfeeding. Experts speak in unison that fasting for one day does not impact milk production. Nor does it impair the health of either mother or baby. But do ensure that you keep your nutrients and hydration up during sundown and sunrise. And above all, always consult your doctor.
Here are some tips to east breastfeeding while fasting:
1| Stick to a healthy diet.
Make sure your diet during fasting is wholesome. Eat healthy, avoid junk foods, and snack on healthy options like fruits or nuts. Make sure to compensate with supplements if you need.
2| Stay hydrated.
This is the golden rule for breastfeeding mums. Drink as much as you can when you can. Water is essential, and you can flavor it with fruits or mint. You can also drink healthy juices and herbal tea. But make sure the primary source of hydration for you is water.
3| Avoid heavy chores during fasting hours.
Heavy chores take up a lot of energy. Therefore, it is best to postpone them to a time where you can eat and recharge. Doing heavy chores during fasting hours might leave you tired and ill for the rest of your day.
4| Rest as much as possible
Breastfeeding alone can be tiring. And when you are fasting, it can be exhausting. That is why it is essential to rest as much as you can.
5| Use all the help you can get
There is a small chance your baby will get less milk when you are fasting. And there are two things to do about this. One, use breast pumps when you can eat and savor it for fasting hours. Two, use formula as a secondary source. Either ways, always keep in check with your doctor.
