DEFINITION

• Fasting is considered one of the five pillars of Islam.
• Fasting includes abstaining from eating and drinking from dawn to sunset for 29-30 days in the ninth month of Islamic calendar.
• Observing Ramadan is considered obligatory for Muslims with some exceptions (i.e. serious illness or traveling).
• It is part of the Ramadan tradition that the family wakes up before dawn to have a meal. Overindulgence in food rich in carbohydrates and saturated fat (depending on the local culture) at breaking of the fast is common.
• In the month of Ramadan, Muslims also increase the amount of nightly prayers, charity and recitation of Quran (holy book of Muslims). Fasting and additional worship is considered a means for spiritual revival.
• Some Muslims may choose to fast additional days throughout the year.