UK based charity Kidney Research UK has published advice on how the Muslim population in Britain can look after their kidneys during the holy month of Ramadan. With fasting an integral aspect to the festivities, the charity has consulted with medical professionals within the community to produce a comprehensive online guide for anyone looking to take care of their kidney health over the month.

The Muslim Council of Britain estimates that 68% of the UK Muslim community are from South Asian backgrounds. South Asian people are more likely to progress faster towards kidney failure and less likely to receive a transplant than their white counterparts, so awareness of kidney health is key.

The advice from the charity’s spokespeople, consultant nephrologist Dr Shafi Malik and general practitioner Dr Sahira Dar includes essential information around managing hydration including the amount of water needed after fasting, the nutritious foods that will maintain energy levels and the importance that adequate sleep will have on keeping the body refreshed and energised during the holy month of Ramadan.

Dr Shafi Malik consultant transplant nephologist said: “Ramadan is a fast not a feast so having discipline in both food consumption and water intake is essential to keep the body and kidneys healthy. Majority of people are able to fast safely, however, those with underlying health conditions may find it difficult to fast or develop complications to their health if they fast for long periods of time. With exemptions for those with certain health conditions, the first step to understanding whether fasting is advisable is to understand your body and health while continuing to monitor changes during the fast.”

Good preparation and planning can avoid problems during fasting. Dehydration can have a negative impact on the kidneys, building up a waste and acids in the body, and potentially leading to kidney stones, urinary tract, kidney damage and disease if left untreated. Similarly, certain foods can put extra strain on the organs meaning that an appropriate diet is even more necessary while fasting.

Dr Sharia Dar, general practitioner, said: “Muslims believe their bodies are a gift from God and we have a responsibility to look after it so while fasting can be challenging, it should never be detrimental to our health.”

High blood pressure and diabetes are the most common causes of kidney disease – and it is no coincidence that South Asian people are also at high risk of these conditions. Being aware of risks ahead of fasting and taking appropriate action during Ramadan could help prevent progression towards kidney disease.

Bushra Riaz, policy officer at Kidney Research UK said: “Ramadan is a time for fasting and looking after ourselves. Maintaining good health and eating well in this month is a top priority as Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him) stated ‘our bodies are an Amanah (trust) from the Almighty’ we cannot harm them in anyway and it is our duty to look after ourselves. It is even more vital therefore that people are aware of the impact that fasting has on the kidneys and general health. Through sharing vital information on fasting, we hope that the community will take the necessary steps to fast in a healthy manner.”

For the holy month of Ramadan, Kidney Research UK is hosting a range of information around fasting safely on their website https://www.kidneyresearchuk.org/kidney-health-information/about-kidney-disease/ramadan/