Oman's Ministry of Health issues advice for fasting during Ramadan

Muscat: Consult your doctor for advice regarding fasting and medication, the Ministry of Health has said.
The Ministry of Health has posted several guidelines regarding the Holy Month of Ramadan, related to health issues, food habits and handling meat products.
With regards to illnesses and medication, the Ministry advises that all those with illnesses like high blood pressure, or others where medication is required, should consult with their doctors.
“Make sure to consult the doctor if you are on medication to determine your ability to fast and adjust medication doses to avoid complications. Make sure to take medicines in a regular manner, and commit to a healthy food diet,” the ministry said.
They also assured Oman’s fasting community that medical procedures like giving a sample of blood, or receiving a non-nutritious injection, do not interfere with fasting. With regards to food diets in Ramadan, the Ministry of Health recommended that individuals make sure to have suhoor, the meal before sunrise, to keep up strength during the daytime.
“Make sure to have suhoor in order to keep up strength. Suhoor prevents fatigue and headaches during daytime fasting hours, and lessens feelings of thirst.”
The Ministry also recommended that individuals curb their caffeine intake to avoid fatigue, irritation, and headaches as a result of caffeine withdrawal during fasting hours.
They additionally asked that people consume food that is rich in fibre, like greens, beans, fruits, and vegetables, in order to avoid constipation.
The Ministry of Health also warned of health risks associated with handling meat.
“Commit to preventive measures when dealing with meat, to avoid the risk of infection from animal-borne diseases such as the Maltese fever and the Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever,” they said.
Advice to counter such diseases included heading to official slaughterhouses for any slaughtering of meat. Individuals should wear gloves and protective glasses if necessary, as well as protective clothing and shoes.