Every fasting season, the same thing happens. People faint in church. Others develop severe headaches, ulcers flare up, or menstrual cycles suddenly disappear. Yet many still believe that these things are proof the fast is working.
The truth is this: most health problems during fasting are not caused by fasting itself, but by avoidable mistakes.
During religious fasting, common health mistakes include dehydration, ignoring medical conditions, skipping essential nutrients, engaging in extreme fasting without guidance, and breaking fasts improperly.
Unfortunately, these mistakes can lead to weakness, hormonal imbalance, digestive problems, and long-term health issues, especially in hot climates like Nigeria.
Why This Matters In Nigeria
In Nigeria, religious fasting is widely practised across churches and mosques, often alongside:
- Long working hours
- High temperatures
- Limited hydration
- Little medical guidance
This combination increases the risk of health complications when fasting is done incorrectly.
1. Not Drinking Enough Water
The Mistake
Many people avoid water completely, believing it breaks the fast spiritually.
Why It’s a Problem
Water is essential for:
- Blood circulation
- Kidney function
- Temperature regulation
- Preventing headaches and dizziness
In Nigeria’s climate, dehydration can occur quickly and may cause:
- Severe fatigue
- Low blood pressure
- Kidney strain
What Research Says
Studies say the human body cannot function properly without adequate hydration, especially during food restriction (1).
2. Ignoring Existing Health Conditions
The Mistake
People with diabetes, anaemia, ulcers, or fertility challenges often fast without adjustments because of pressure or fear of judgement.
Why It’s a Problem
Fasting can:
- Cause dangerous blood sugar drops in diabetics
- Worsen iron deficiency in women
- Trigger ulcer pain
- Disrupt hormonal balance
What Research Says
Medical authorities stress that fasting is not safe for everyone without supervision (2).
3. Believing Extreme Weakness Means The Fast Is “Working”
The Mistake
Some people push through fainting, confusion, and severe weakness.
Why It’s a Problem
These are warning signs, not spiritual milestones.
They may indicate:
- Low blood sugar
- Electrolyte imbalance
- Severe dehydration
- Anaemia
What Research Says
Severe weakness during fasting signals physiological stress, not health benefit (3).
4. Skipping Essential Nutrients For Long Periods
The Mistake
Breaking fasts with only tea, bread, or sugary drinks, day after day.
Why It’s a Problem
This deprives the body of:
- Protein
- Iron
- Healthy fats
- Vitamins needed for hormone and immune function
Unfortunately, over time, this can lead to: Hair loss, missed periods, poor immunity and muscle loss.
What Research Says
The world Health Organisation says nutrient deficiency is a recognised risk of prolonged or poorly planned fasting (4).
5. Breaking The Fast Abruptly With Heavy Meals
The Mistake
Ending long fasts with large, oily, or spicy meals.
Why It’s a Problem
After fasting, the digestive system is sensitive. Heavy meals can cause:
- Stomach pain
- Diarrhoea
- Acid reflux
- Bloating
What Research Says
Nutritionists recommend gradual refeeding after fasting. they say it protests digestion (5).
6. Ignoring Women’s Unique Health Needs
The Mistake
When a fast is called, as a woman, you should understand that you have unique health needs. Consider them.
But people expect women to fast the same way as men, even during:
- Menstruation
- Anaemia
- Fertility treatment
- Hormonal imbalance
Why It’s a Problem
Women are more vulnerable to:
- Iron deficiency
- Hormonal disruption
- Cycle irregularities during fasting
What Research Says
According to a study, energy restriction can affect female reproductive hormones (6).
7. Treating Fasting As A Competition
The Mistake
Comparing fasting lengths and endurance.
Why It’s a Problem
This encourages:
- Ignoring body signals
- Risky fasting behaviour
- Guilt-based spirituality
Always remember that fasting is personal, not performative.
Key Takeaway ‘Common Health Mistakes During Religious Fasting’
Fasting should build discipline, clarity, and spiritual focus — not damage health.
Most fasting-related health problems in Nigeria are preventable with:
- Adequate hydration
- Medical awareness
- Nutrient-conscious meals
- Respect for individual body needs
Wisdom does not weaken faith. It protects the body entrusted to you.
Frequently Asked Questions On Fasting (FAQs)
Question: Is fasting dangerous?
Answer: Fasting can be safe, but becomes risky when hydration, nutrition, or health conditions are ignored. Never forget this.
Have You Read: Fasting And Technology: 5 Ways To Benefit From Devices
Question: Can fasting affect hormones?
Answer: Yes. Prolonged or extreme fasting can disrupt stress and reproductive hormones, especially in women.
Question: Should sick people fast?
Answer: People with medical conditions should consult a healthcare professional before fasting.