Ramadan 2026: Why What You Eat After Iftar May Matter More Than The Fast

2026-02-25 04:30:09

(MENAFN- Khaleej Times)

Health experts caution that many common Ramadan eating habits, particularly large evening meals, may lead to unintended health problems

PUBLISHED: Wed 25 Feb 2026, 12:34 PM

By:
SM Ayaz Zakir

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While residents across the UAE experience headaches and fatigue during fasting hours in the first week of Ramadan, healthcare experts said that the bigger health risk may actually begin after sunset, when heavy meals and sugary desserts undo the benefits of a full day of fasting.

Doctors said that during Ramadan, the body undergoes significant metabolic adjustments as eating and sleeping patterns change. After long hours without food or water, blood sugar levels remain sensitive, making food choices at iftar especially important.

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“In the first few days, the body is still adapting to prolonged fasting,” said Dr Archana Purushothaman, specialist in endocrinology, diabetes, and metabolism at Fakeeh University Hospital Dubai.

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“Blood sugar levels decline during the day, and hormones regulating energy adjust to a new rhythm. Sudden spikes caused by overeating or excessive sugar intake can place additional stress on the body," she said.

Health experts caution that many common Ramadan eating habits, particularly large evening meals, may lead to unintended health problems.

Ramadan prayer timings

According to Dr Charu Thadani, head of clinical at Cigna Healthcare Middle East, the greatest health risks during Ramadan often begin after iftar rather than during fasting hours.

“In the UAE, where around one in five adults live with diabetes, sugar-dense Ramadan desserts and oversized evening meals can trigger rapid blood sugar spikes and cardiovascular strain,” she said.

Popular treats such as luqaimat, kunafa and qatayef, often enjoyed daily during the holy month, can quickly reverse the metabolic balance achieved through fasting if consumed in excess.

“Sweets consumed frequently can negate the metabolic benefits of a full day of fasting within minutes,” added Dr Thadani.

Another commonly overlooked factor is caffeine intake late in the evening. Arabic coffee remains an important part of Ramadan hospitality, but excessive consumption at night can worsen dehydration and interfere with sleep and medication routines the following day.

Nutrition experts said that the way people break their fast also plays a major role in how they feel throughout the evening and the next day.

“Sugary drinks cause a quick spike in blood sugar followed by a crash, which increases tiredness,” said Swapna Mary John, clinical dietician at International Modern Hospital Dubai.

“Fried foods are heavy and slow to digest, often leaving people feeling sluggish instead of energized.”

She explained that balanced meals including complex carbohydrates, protein, healthy fats, and fibre, help stabilise blood sugar and prevent sudden energy crashes.

Experts also caution residents against adjusting or skipping prescribed medication schedules without medical advice during Ramadan.

“Medication during Ramadan should not be paused or improvised. Most treatments can be safely continued under medical guidance,” said Dr Thadani, adding that even individuals who are not fasting may experience metabolic changes due to altered sleep and meal timings during the holy month.

Healthcare specialists emphasise that Ramadan can be observed safely with proper planning. Moderate portions, gradual hydration between iftar and suhoor, and spacing indulgent foods rather than consuming them daily can help fasting support overall health rather than undermine it.

“The safest Ramadan is shaped by planning. Fasting should work with your health, not against it,” said Dr Thadani.