Fasting with Migraine: Can You Observe Ramadan Without Triggering Headaches?

Ramadan is the entire sacred month of not just praying and celebrating with friends and family but also observing fasting from morning till evening. Apart from not eating any food, fasting during Ramadan does not involve drinking water between sunrise and sunset.

According to experts, fasting is among the best ways to improve your overall health and well-being. However, many people are not able to sustain it due to ill-health issues like high blood pressure, diabetes, or migraine headaches. “Migraine opportunities can be lessened by being properly prepared,” Dr. Lomesh Bhirud, a neurologist and neurointerventionist at Ruby Hall Clinic, told Times Now.

According to Dr. Bhirud, during fasting a few conditions increase the risk of migraine attacks, which include:

Headaches can be caused by reduced fluid intake as it changes blood flow and electrolyte levels.

Skipping meals can lead to fluctuations in blood sugar, which is often the trigger for migraines.

Those who often consume tea or coffee may experience withdrawal headaches while fasting.

Changes in sleep patterns can disrupt the body's natural circadian rhythm, which can trigger migraines.

Artificial sweeteners, processed foods, and MSG at Iftar and Suhoor can trigger migraines.

Prevention of headaches due to dehydration involves fluid intake. Between Iftar and Suhoor, have eight to ten glasses of water at least. “Eating foods with high water content, i.e., yogurt, cucumbers, and watermelon, can be helpful. Processed, fried, and salty foods should be avoided as they may lead to dehydration,” said Dr. Bhirud.

A well-balanced morning meal, also known as suhoor, can help maintain steady blood sugar levels throughout the day. Dr. Bhirud recommends eating whole grains and complex carbohydrates, which release energy slowly, like oats.

“To avert the caffeine withdrawal headaches, begin cutting down intake in the weeks prior to Ramadan,” said Dr. Bhirud. Rather than stopping all at once, try switching over to green tea or herbal teas, which contain less caffeine.

One of the main causes of migraines is disturbed sleep. Every night, aim for 6–8 hours of sleep. To make up for missing sleep, take a quick nap before Iftar if necessary. Because it can impact the quality of your sleep, avoid using screens right before bed.

Water and dates work to slowly stabilize blood sugar, so use them to break a fast. Avoid processed foods, MSG, artificial sweeteners, and foods highly fried or salty. Instead, opt for fresh, home-prepared meals that contain lots of fibre, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats.

Ramadan's increase in social and religious activities sometimes becomes too much to bear. “Use relaxation and breathing exercises to prevent migraines induced by stress. Move slowly and take small breaks between prayers,” said Dr. Bhirud.

If you are on prophylactic migraine medication, talk to your physician regarding adjusting your dosage schedule during fasting. If fasting repeatedly provokes very severe migraines, Islamic philosophy permits exemptions due to health concerns, with options such as feeding the poor.

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