Ramadan: Medical expert lists gains of fasting, charity

A medical practitioner, Dr Saheed Alimi, has highlighted the health benefits of fasting especially in the holy month of Ramadan saying fasting does a lot of good to the human body individually and collectively.

Alimi, who is also the Imam, National Hospital, Abuja, stated this at the 19th Ramadan Lecture/Iftar of the Obafemi Awolowo University Muslim Graduates’ Association (UNIFEMGA) which was held at the National Society of Engineers (NSE) auditorium in Abuja.

Speaking on the topic “Protecting your health and purifying your health, Dr. Alimi said Ramadan is a structured form of intermittent fasting that aligns with the body’s natural circadian rhythm.

According to him, fasting offer multiple health benefits such as regulation of the body system, blood glucose control, reduction of general inflammation, fighting cancer and also makes the brain to function very well.

“Ramadan fasting is a structured form of intermittent fasting that aligns with the body’s natural circadian rhythm. Fasting during daylight hours rather than at night meets established medical models of intermittent fasting and offers multiple health benefits.

“Fasting has been shown to support brain function by enhancing neural connectivity which may aid memory and recovery in some neurological conditions.

“Ramadan fasting fulfils the criteria of intermittent fasting as it enables weight reduction without malnutrition and helps regulate blood pressure and blood sugar levels. Improved control of hypertension and diabetes could significantly reduce the risk of stroke, kidney disease and heart failure. High blood pressure and diabetes remain leading causes of those conditions,” he added.

Speaking on to purification of wealth, he urged Muslims to see zakat, one of the five pillars of Islam, as a mean to purify their earnings.

He said that Muslims are expected to give more during Ramadan especially to the vulnerable saying the rewards are unquantifiable.

He urged eligible Muslims to properly assess their financial status and ensure they fulfil the obligation once they meet the required threshold, known as nisab of zakat.

Dr. Alimi also referenced the stance of the first Caliph, Abu Bakr, in upholding Zakat compliance, noting that faith and social responsibility are closely linked in Islamic practice.

He added that the Prophet Muhammad was known to be most generous during Ramadan, encouraging Muslims to intensify acts of charity during the period.

Speaking earlier, Chairman of the UNIFEMGA Abuja Chapter, Alhaji Sulaiman Muhammad, said Ramadan is a time for reflection, compassion and service to humanity.

He said the annual lecture series was aimed at strengthening spiritual understanding among members while promoting initiatives that support community development.

Muhammad urged Muslims to support programmes that provide food and assistance to the needy during the fasting period.

Also speaking at the event, Ibrahim Kunle Olarewaju reminded participants that the true benefits of fasting are reflected in improved character, discipline and accountability to God.

In her contribution, Justice Ajoke Adepoju of the FCT High Court urged Muslims to uphold justice, integrity and fairness in their personal and professional dealings.

The event also witnessed a fundraising drive for a N3 billion endowment fund aimed at constructing an ultra-modern Islamic Centre for the association in Abuja.