Nutrition and Ramadan. Presented by Lina Breik, APD
The Islamic month of Ramadan, which varies from year to year, is a time during which many Muslim people abstain from eating, drinking and smoking from dawn to sunset. Fasting becomes an important act of faith for Muslim people all over the world in order to practice important life skills, including discipline, self-restraint and empathy.
Using the most current research and her personal experience, Lina explains Ramadan so we have a greater cultural awareness and can support our Muslim clients with suitable nutrition information.
Lina suggests that people with chronic illnesses and those with diabetes would benefit from a visit to their GP one to two months prior to the commencement of Ramadan to discuss how they will manage their fasting.
About the presenter:
Lina is a Palestinian-Australian Accredited Practicing Dietitian from Melbourne. While her clinical speciality is critical care and enteral nutrition, she thoroughly enjoys raising awareness around the importance of nutrition during religious festivities. As a Muslim clinician, Lina aims to help colleagues understand the Middle Eastern culture and Islamic religion better; and feel confident in connecting and empathising with their patients.
Further reading: Salti I, et al. A Population-Base study of Diabetes and Its Characteristics During the Fasting Month of Ramadan in 13 Countries (EPIDAR). Diabetes Care. 2004; 27(10):2306-11
Lina has created a practical resource to use with your clients in both English and Arabic:
Nutrition and Ramadan patient handout in English
Nutrition and Ramadan patient handout in Arabic
For more information and to register for the Nutrition and Ramadan webinar recording and associated documents click here.