Navigating Ramadan Fasting with Eating Disorders and Diabetes: Expert Tips

Muslims with eating disorders face challenges during Ramadan due to the ritual of fasting, which can exacerbate the need to restrict eating further and risk slipping into a toxic cycle. Mental health illnesses are not given credence in the same way as physical sickness, leading to guilt and shame from communities and wider society. Muslim doctors and psychologists are trying to bridge the gap between faith leaders and worshippers to provide support. Therapy services, workshops, support groups, and educational talks are being offered to help Muslims with eating disorders navigate Ramadan. Faith leaders and family members should acknowledge the challenges Muslims with mental health struggles face during Ramadan and offer guidance to help break the intergenerational cycle of shame and guilt that exists across society.