Can you take weight loss medication during Ramadan?

The short answer: yes, you can. However, it does involve possible health risks, the most important of which is hypoglycaemia (low blood sugar).

When using the medication, always put your health first, both during and outside of Ramadan. You do that by listening carefully to your body. Exhaustion can cause both physical and mental stress. If you have to break your fast for health reasons, you can often make up later according to Islamic guidelines.

Good to know‍

Medications such as Mounjaro (tirzepatide) and Ozempic (semaglutide) are relatively new. There is therefore a good chance that this is the first time you use the medication during Ramadan. The fact that the medicine helps you to reduce your sense of hunger may be an advantage. But the use also involves possible complications that you should take into account.

For example, GLP-1 medications can cause side effects such as nausea, dizziness, and low blood sugar. During Ramadan, these effects may be stronger because you only have two meals: iftar (after sunset) and suhor (before dawn). That's why it is important to adjust your diet accordingly and to get enough moisture and nutrients.

Stop taking weight loss medication

We notice that some people think it is better to stop taking the medication for a while because of fasting. However, if you are taking GLP-1 weight loss medication, quitting during Ramadan is not recommended.

When you quit, your appetite may come back. This makes fasting extra difficult. In addition, you may (again) experience side effects if you resume treatment.

Thinking about taking a break? Then always consult with your healthcare provider first.

In short: You can continue to take weight loss medication during Ramadan. However, it is important to listen carefully to your body.

5 tips for safe fasting with weight loss medications

How to use GLP-1 medication safely during Ramadan? We give you 5 tips for fasting with diabetes medications during Ramadan.

Tip 1: Take your medication at a fixed time

Ensure consistency. Take the medicine on the same day and time each week as prescribed by your doctor.

You can take the medication:

• Before suhor (the meal before sunrise)
• After iftar (the meal after sunset)

Tip 2: Don't increase your dose

Do not increase the dose of your medication during Ramadan, but do so at least one month in advance so that your body has time to get used to it. An increase in dose during the fasting period may worsen side effects such as nausea, vomiting, and dehydration.

If you are considering changing your dose, always talk to your doctor first.

Tip 3: Watch out for low blood sugar

It's not often that GLP-1 medications cause hypoglycaemia, but fasting may increase this risk. Be alert to symptoms such as:

• Feeling of hunger
• Vibrate or tremble
• Sudden sweating
• Fatigue and dizziness

In severe hypoglycaemia, blurred vision, rapid heart rate, and confusion may occur. If you experience these symptoms, check your blood sugar level. Is the glucose value <3.5 mmol/l? Then immediately take a quick source of sugar, such as fruit juice or glucose tablets, and consult your healthcare provider.

Tip 4: Eat Healthy

Healthy fasting with weight loss medication is done by eating full-fledged, healthy meals outside the fasting period. This supports your health, makes fasting easier and helps minimize side effects. Follow these guidelines:

• Avoid large or high-calorie meals with iftar and sugar.
• Eat slowly and start with light foods such as dates and soup.
• Opt for high-fiber carbohydrates and protein-rich meals.
• Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water (at least 2 liters) between iftar and suhor.

Tip 5: Eat enough even when you're not hungry

Don't skip suhor or iftar, even if you don't have an appetite. Eating enough helps your body to keep up the fast and prevents you from becoming deficient in nutrients.

By following these tips, you can fast safely and healthily while continuing to take your weight-loss medication. Always consult your doctor if you have any doubts or complaints.

In short: Eat healthy and sufficient and use your medication consistently to fast safely.

Dietary advice for a healthy Ramadan with weight loss medication

If you are taking weight loss medication during Ramadan, it is extra important to be aware of your diet. Therefore, follow the following advice.

Eat a full meal at iftar and suhor

Make sure what you eat outside the fasting period is rich in nutrients, such as protein, healthy fats, and fiber. This ensures that your body can function properly, helps keep your energy levels stable and prevents blood sugar fluctuations.

Suhor (meal before sunrise)
Opt for complex carbohydrates, lean proteins, and healthy fats for long-lasting energy. Avoid salty foods to prevent excessive thirst during the day.

Iftar (dinner)

Start with a small portion of dates and water, followed by a full meal with lots of vegetables, and a protein-rich diet.

Hydrate!

Fasting can lead to dehydration. It is therefore very important to drink enough water between iftar and suhor. Aim for at least 2 litres of water per night to maintain your fluid balance.

Avoid sugary drinks, as they can cause a sudden blood sugar spike. And limit caffeinated drinks such as coffee and tea, as they accelerate fluid loss.

Note: your medication may make you less thirsty. Keep track of how much you drink to make sure you're hydrating enough.

Prevent overeating after fasting

If you fast during the day, there is a temptation to eat too much at night. Make sure you eat nutritious meals and don't overeat to prevent nausea and other discomforts.

Listen to your body

Do you feel very tired, dizzy, or nauseous? Then your body may have trouble combining fasting and medication. Take these signals seriously and don't force yourself. If you experience symptoms, consult with your healthcare provider or imam about possible changes in your medication or diet.

Practical tips for eating healthy during Ramadan

• Don't skip suhor
  You need this meal to keep your energy levels stable throughout the day.
• Break your fast in a light way
  Start with dates, fruit, and water to gradually increase your blood sugar levels.
• Choose healthy cooking methods
  Grill, bake, or use an air fryer instead of frying.
• Avoid high-sugar and high-fat meals
  These can negatively affect your energy levels and make weight loss difficult.
• Eat the right carbs
  Whole grains, fruits and vegetables provide long-lasting energy. Avoid fast sugars like candy and white rice.

By making conscious dietary choices and listening carefully to your body, you can fast in a healthy way and make the most of the benefits of your medication.

In short: Eat whole and healthy outside the fasting period and hydrate enough to fast safely while taking weight loss medication.

Risks of weight loss medication during Ramadan

The combination of fasting and weight loss medication involves risks, the most important of which is hypoglycaemia. Hypoglycaemia occurs when your blood sugar levels fall too low, and this is a known complication of fasting during Ramadan [1,2].

The risk of hypoglycaemia is not only due to the medication. When your body needs more glucose than is available, the risk of hypoglycaemia increases. Fasting itself is therefore already a risk factor [3].

To reduce the risk, it is wise to make any dose adjustments at least four weeks before Ramadan. This not only helps lower the risk of hypoglycaemia, but can also reduce digestive symptoms [4].

In addition, it is good to know that hypoglycaemia usually occurs around the fifth day after GLP-1 administration [5]. At that time, be extra alert to signs of low blood sugar levels.

Little research on GLP-1 medications in non-diabetic individuals

As we mentioned earlier, the use of weight loss medication is relatively new. As a result, more research is needed into the use of the medication during Ramadan by people who do not have diabetes.

The medication was originally developed for the treatment of type 2 diabetes, so there is now a lot of experience with using it during the fasting period. This has led to advice that may also apply to people taking these medications for weight loss.

But while diabetic patient data can provide valuable insights, circumstances are different for non-diabetics. Especially because this group may have a higher risk of hypoglycaemia.

So there is still much to investigate before definitive guidelines can be given for the use of GLP-1 medication during Ramadan for people without diabetes.

In short: The biggest risk of using weight loss medication during Ramadan is hypoglycaemia. Furthermore, little research has been done into the use of the medication in people who do not have diabetes.

When to stop fasting

Fasting is an important religious obligation, but Islam makes exceptions for people whose fasting can harm their health. Obesity is recognized as a disease by the World Health Organization (WHO). This means you can prioritize your health.

Stop fasting immediately if you experience symptoms of hypoglycaemia, such as:

• Vertigo
• sweating
• Confusion
• Vibrate

In that situation, immediately take a quick source of sugar, such as fruit juice or glucose tablets, and then eat a healthy snack to stabilize your blood sugar levels.

When do you need to take action?

• Severe hypoglycaemia (glucose <3.5 mmol/l): Break your fast and eat something.
• Severe hyperglycaemia (glucose >15 mmol/l): Contact your doctor.

In short: Take action in case of severe hypoglycaemia and severe hyperglycaemia.

Conclusion

You can fast during Ramadan while taking medication such as Ozempic, Mounjaro, or Wegovy. Here, it is important that you make conscious choices and monitor yourself properly. Follow your prescribed treatment, choose nutritious meals, and ensure adequate hydration during the hours outside fasting. The most important thing is to listen to your body and contact your healthcare provider in case of complaints or doubts.

Ramadan Kareem! And blessed Eid al-Fitr!

Do you have questions about nutrition, medication or GLP-1 side effects during fasting? Feel free to take contact with us. We are here for you with personal advice.

Ramadan Mubarak!