Is it permissible for pregnant women to fast?
In general, healthy pregnant women are allowed to fast. However, it is important to understand the health condition and nutritional needs before deciding whether pregnant women can fast. There are several factors to consider, such as medical conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure, which can affect the ability of pregnant women to fast.
Research published in Nutrients in 2021 and BMC Pregnancy Childbirth in 2018 shows that fasting does not increase the risk of complications in healthy pregnant women without a history of chronic diseases. Furthermore, these studies also indicate no negative impact on fetal weight.
However, it is important to ensure that nutritional and fluid intake during fasting is adequate, considering the higher nutritional and fluid requirements during pregnancy. Therefore, before deciding to fast, it is advisable to consult a doctor first.
What are the conditions for pregnant women to fast?
Here are the conditions or characteristics of pregnant women who can fast:
- Pregnant women do not have health problems related to their pregnancy or their body health and are not currently receiving treatment.
- Those with normal health and pregnancy conditions can perform fasting when their pregnancy reaches 4-7 months.
- Pregnant women in the first trimester are allowed to fast, but attention should be paid to their health condition because usually the health of pregnant women in the early stages of pregnancy tends to be unstable, often experiencing vomiting (hyperemesis), and frequent dizziness or weakness. Hyperemesis can disrupt the homeostasis of pregnant women because they will lose a lot of body fluids and nutrients.
Recommendations for eating for pregnant women who are fasting
The most important principle is balanced nutrition and adequate fluid intake (at least 2.6 liters of water between iftar and suhoor). The composition of balanced nutritional intake includes 50?rbohydrates, 30% protein, and 10-20?t.
Recommendations for pregnant women fasting are as follows:
- High-fiber and protein diet
- Avoid excessive consumption of salt, sugar, and caffeine
- Drink water, milk, and juice before dawn
- Before going to bed at night, consume snacks, water, or juice, milk, and fruits
- Drink plenty of water during iftar, suhoor, and the time between iftar and suhoor
- Get enough rest to conserve energy and fluids
- Break your fast immediately with water slowly. Eat light foods containing carbohydrates such as dates, fruits, etc.
Risks of Fasting for Pregnant Women and Babies
Although there is no research explicitly showing significant risks for pregnant women fasting, some studies highlight its potential impact.
A study published in the American Economic Journal: Applied Economics in 2011 stated that the birth weight of babies born to fasting mothers is lower, especially in the first and second trimesters.
Quoted from Healthline, although the long-term implications of fasting on mothers and fetuses have not been fully proven, studies show its influence on fetal respiration. A study published in the Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology in 2004 showed a decrease in glucose levels, resulting in longer detection times for fetal movements.
Low fetal movement frequency is generally considered a warning sign that needs to be taken seriously, especially as the delivery date approaches. Babies should make at least 10 movements in 1 to 2 hours.
Furthermore, issues such as iron deficiency anemia are more common during pregnancy. When the baby does not get enough iron, especially in the third trimester, they are at higher risk of developing anemia before the age of 1. One way to avoid this is to ensure the fetus receives the right nutrients during pregnancy.
Therefore, it is important to remember that every pregnancy has different conditions and nutritional needs. So, this decision should be carefully considered and discussed with a doctor to assess its risks and benefits.
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