O believers! Fasting is prescribed for you—as it was for those before you1—so perhaps you will become mindful ˹of Allah˺. ˹Fast a˺ prescribed number of days.1 But whoever of you is ill or on a journey, then ˹let them fast˺ an equal number of days ˹after Ramaḍân˺. For those who can only fast with extreme difficulty,2 compensation can be made by feeding a needy person ˹for every day not fasted˺. But whoever volunteers to give more, it is better for them. And to fast is better for you, if only you knew. Ramaḍân is the month in which the Quran was revealed as a guide for humanity with clear proofs of guidance and the decisive authority. So whoever is present this month, let them fast. But whoever is ill or on a journey, then ˹let them fast˺ an equal number of days ˹after Ramaḍân˺. Allah intends ease for you, not hardship, so that you may complete the prescribed period and proclaim the greatness of Allah for guiding you, and perhaps you will be grateful.
Who Should Not Fast During Ramadan?
Fasting during Ramadan is a fundamental pillar of Islam, but there are exceptions for individuals who may face serious health risks if they fast. Islam prioritises health and allows those who cannot fast due to valid reasons to either make up the fast later (Qada) or offer compensation (Fidya) by feeding the poor.
Who Is Exempt from Fasting During Ramadan?
1. People with Severe Health Conditions
Those with chronic illnesses or medical conditions that worsen with fasting should not fast. This includes: – Uncontrolled diabetes (risk of blood sugar spikes or drops). – Kidney disease (risk of dehydration and kidney failure). – Heart disease or high blood pressure (especially if fasting leads to complications). – Severe gastric issues (ulcers, acid reflux, or severe IBS).
2. Pregnant and Breastfeeding Women
Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding may be exempt from fasting if they fear: – Harm to their health (weakness, dehydration, or malnutrition). – Harm to their baby (reduced milk supply or fetal development risks).
Islam allows them to fast later or pay Fidya if they cannot make it up.
3. Elderly Individuals
– Elderly people with weak health who may suffer from fasting-related complications are exempt. – Those unable to regain strength even after eating (due to prolonged fasting hours) should not fast.
They can offer Fidya instead of fasting.
4. Children Below Puberty
– Pre-pubescent children are not required to fast, but they can practice shorter fasts to prepare for future obligations.
5. People with Mental Illness or Cognitive Impairments
– Those suffering from severe mental health conditions (such as schizophrenia, severe depression, or dementia) are exempt. – Fasting should not be forced on individuals who cannot make rational decisions about their health.
6. People with Severe Physical Weakness
– Those recovering from surgery, severe infections, or recent major illnesses should not fast until they regain strength.
7. Menstruating Women
– Women on their menstrual cycle are prohibited from fasting but must make up for missed fasts later.
8. Travelers (During Long or Exhausting Journeys)
– If traveling causes hardship or exhaustion, one is allowed to skip fasting and make up for it later. – However, if the journey is short and manageable, fasting is encouraged.
9. Individuals at Risk of Severe Dehydration
– Those who work in extreme heat or physically demanding jobs (such as construction workers, farmers, or athletes in hot climates) may be exempt if fasting causes serious dehydration or health issues. – If possible, they should try alternative work schedules to fast safely.
What to Do If You Cannot Fast?
Qada (Making Up the Fast Later) – If you temporarily cannot fast (e.g., due to illness, pregnancy, or travel), you must make up for missed fasts later when able.
Fidya (Feeding the Poor) – If fasting is permanently unsafe (e.g., chronic illness, old age), you must feed a poor person for each missed fast.
Kaffarah (Fasting Consecutively or Feeding People) – If someone intentionally breaks a fast without a valid reason, they must either: – Fast 60 consecutive days, or – Feed 60 poor people as expiation.
Conclusion
Islam provides flexibility and compassion when it comes to fasting. Those who are sick, elderly, pregnant, menstruating, or traveling can postpone or be exempt from fasting. If fasting poses a serious health risk, individuals should prioritise their well-being and follow Islamic guidelines for Qada or Fidya. Always consult a doctor and religious scholar if unsure about fasting with a medical condition.
FAQs
Can diabetics fast during Ramadan?
Some diabetics can fast if their condition is well-controlled.
However, those with uncontrolled diabetes or insulin dependence should avoid fasting.
What happens if I am too weak to fast?
If fasting causes severe weakness or illness, you are exempt and can either make up for the fast later (Qada) or pay Fidya.
Do pregnant women have to fast?
No, pregnant women can delay fasting if they fear harm to themselves or the baby. They may make up the fast later or pay Fidya if fasting is permanently unsafe.
Can elderly people skip fasting?
Yes, if fasting causes hardship or health risks, elderly individuals can pay Fidya instead of fasting.
What should I do if I miss a fast due to travel or sickness?
You must make up for the missed fast later (Qada) when you are able. If you have a chronic condition and cannot fast permanently, you must pay Fidya.
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