# data[].attributes.headline
Health Benefits of Islamic Intermittent Fasting

# data[].attributes.subject
Health Benefits of Islamic Intermittent Fasting

# data[].attributes.body
Authors: Naina Mohamed Pakkir Maideen, Abdurazak Jumale, Jamil I.H. Alatrash, Asali Ahamed Abdul Sukkur

1. Overview of Islamic Fasting

Practiced during Ramadan: fasting from dawn to sunset (13–18 hours/day).

Shares similarities with modern intermittent fasting (IF) methods:

Time-restricted feeding

Alternate-day fasting

2. Metabolic Health Benefits

Improves glucose regulation and insulin sensitivity

Helps reduce blood pressure

Lowers risk of:

Metabolic syndrome

Type 2 diabetes

Enhances fat utilization and reduces insulin resistance

3. Weight Management

Reduced meal frequency and caloric intake during Ramadan

Leads to weight loss in:

Overweight individuals

Healthy individuals

Sustainability of weight loss depends on post-Ramadan habits

4. Cardiovascular Benefits

Improved lipid profiles:

↓ Total cholesterol

↓ LDL (bad cholesterol)

↓ Triglycerides

↑ HDL (good cholesterol)

Potential protective effects against cardiovascular disease

5. Anti-inflammatory Effects

Fasting associated with reduced inflammatory markers:

↓ CRP (C-reactive protein)

↓ IL-6 (Interleukin-6)

Supports immune function, cellular repair, and detoxification

6. Brain and Mental Health

Promotes neuroplasticity

Reduces oxidative stress

Enhances cognitive performance

May delay progression of neurodegenerative diseases

7. Psychological and Spiritual Benefits

Encourages:

Mindfulness

Self-discipline

Spiritual connection

Reported improvements in:

Mood

Focus

Stress management

8. Practical Recommendations

Recognize Islamic fasting as a complementary health strategy

Healthcare professionals should support safe fasting practices

Individuals with preexisting medical conditions should consult a doctor before fasting

# data[].attributes.headline
Acquisition of Hikmah (Positive Values) from Ibadah

# data[].attributes.subject
Acquisition of Hikmah (Positive Values) from Ibadah

# data[].attributes.body
1. Ibadah as a Path to Wisdom (Hikmah)

Ibadah is not limited to rituals but is a means to attain hikmah (wisdom and virtues).

True benefit comes when one embraces the inner spirit of ibadah.

Spiritual and moral change requires:

Ihsan (spiritual excellence),

‘Amal (correct practice),

Niyyah (sincere intention).

2. Niyyah (Right Intention)

Hadith: “Actions are but by intentions...” (Sahih Bukhari).

Sincere niyyah:

Prevents ibadah from becoming mere routine.

Focuses on pleasing Allah.

Leads to virtues like:

Sincerity (ikhlas)

Gratitude

Mindfulness and self-awareness

Acts like prayer, fasting, and charity gain spiritual depth when done with correct intention.

3. ‘Amal (Proper Practice)

‘Amal = actual implementation of worship.

Must follow the Prophet’s teachings (e.g., prayer, fasting, Hajj).

Proper practice ensures:

Spiritual impact

Acceptance by Allah

Moral values developed through practice:

Patience

Discipline

Accountability

Timeliness

Self-control

4. Ihsan (Spiritual Excellence)

Defined in Hadith: “Worship Allah as though you see Him…” (Sahih Muslim).

Ihsan adds beauty, sincerity, and depth to worship.

Encourages:

Compassion

Empathy

Kindness

Humility

Social responsibility

Example:

Fasting = empathy for the needy

Prayer = humility and reliance on Allah

5. Holistic Outcome of Ibadah

Ibadah becomes a tool for continuous ethical and spiritual development.

When niyyah, ‘amal, and ihsan are aligned:

Ibadah transforms into a powerful force for character building.

Leads to a life of devotion to Allah and service to humanity.

Cultivates positive values and moral refinement.

# data[].attributes.body
My name is Hanna Athiffah binti Khushairi. I’m from Perak Darul Ridzuan. I love reading. Being an IIUM student is one of my achivements hihihi, alhamdulillah. I currently pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in Malay for International Communication (Honours) here. Wallahi, I love this usrah circle because it makes me feel calm.