Skin benefits of Ramadan fasting: Reduced inflammation, improved elasticity, and more
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Ramadan, the ninth month in the Islamic calendar, is considered one of the holiest times for Muslims worldwide. One of the pillars of Ramadan is fasting, which involves abstaining from food and drink during daylight hours. While fasting has been associated with spiritual benefits, recent studies have shown that it also has positive effects on skin health.
A report published in The Indian Express quoting dermatologist Dr Muneeb Shah said that during the fasting period of Ramadan, the levels of inflammatory cytokines in the body decrease. This decrease can help people with skin diseases that are inflammatory in nature, such as acne, psoriasis, and hidradenitis suppurativa. Dr Shah added that there are clinical studies showing that fasting during Ramadan can improve the symptoms of psoriasis and hidradenitis suppurativa.
A study published in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology found that fasting during Ramadan improved symptoms of psoriasis in some participants. Another study published in the Journal of Cutaneous Medicine and Surgery found that fasting improved symptoms of hidradenitis suppurativa in some patients.
Fasting during Ramadan is a form of intermittent fasting, wherein individuals do not eat food for a certain number of hours in the day. According to Dr Annie Flora, a senior consultant dermatologist at Apollo Spectra and Apollo Cosmetics Clinic in Chennai, fasting can improve skin elasticity, reduce acne, and improve the overall appearance of the skin. Dr Flora explained that fasting helps to regulate insulin levels, which can reduce inflammation and improve skin health. Additionally, fasting has been found to stimulate the production of collagen, which is a protein that helps to keep the skin firm, supple, and elastic.
Dr DM Mahajan, a senior consultant dermatologist at Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals, added that fasting can also reduce inflammation, which is a key factor in many skin conditions, including acne, psoriasis, and eczema. Fasting can also promote cellular repair and regeneration, which is crucial for maintaining healthy, youthful-looking skin.
While fasting can have positive effects on skin health, it is also essential to ensure that individuals are getting enough nutrients during the non-fasting hours. Consuming a balanced diet that includes a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can help provide the nutrients the body needs to maintain healthy skin. Staying hydrated during the non-fasting hours is also crucial to ensure that the skin stays healthy and hydrated.
However, experts warn that consuming high-calorie foods like milk and milk products, sweets, and very oily foods after breaking the fast can cause breakouts on the skin. It is essential to make sure to stay hydrated after breaking the fast and consume nutritious food, as a lack of proper nutrition can cause dehydration, which may not be good for skin health.
In conclusion, fasting during Ramadan has spiritual benefits and can also improve skin health. Fasting helps reduce inflammation, stimulate collagen production, and promote cellular repair and regeneration. However, it is crucial to maintain a balanced diet and stay hydrated during the non-fasting hours to ensure that the skin stays healthy and hydrated.