DAILYREFLECTION
O believers, fasting is prescribed for you as it was prescribed for those before you, so perhaps you will become mindful.
Fasting has always been part of the lives of prophets and righteous communities before us. In Islam, it is not only a spiritual act but also a physical discipline that leaves real, measurable marks on the body.
Here is a simple look at some of what modern research has been uncovering about fasting, while our intentions remain purely for Allah.
1. Sharper brain function
During periods of fasting, the body increases production of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), a protein that supports the growth and protection of neurons and is linked with better learning and memory. Studies on intermittent fasting suggest improved cognitive performance and resistance to neurodegenerative changes in animals, with early signals in humans as well.
2. Better insulin sensitivity and blood sugar control
Fasting periods give insulin a “break.” Over time, this can improve insulin sensitivity, helping the body use glucose more efficiently and lowering average blood sugar. Clinical trials of time-restricted eating and intermittent fasting show improvements in fasting glucose, insulin levels, and markers of metabolic syndrome in many participants.
3. Reduced inflammation and improved heart markers
Fasting has been associated with reductions in certain inflammatory markers and improvements in lipids such as LDL cholesterol and triglycerides, which are important for heart health. Some Ramadan studies show modest improvements in weight, waist circumference, and cardiovascular risk markers, especially when food choices are reasonable at iftar and suhoor.
4. Cellular repair and “clean-up”
In fasting states, the body increases autophagy, a process where cells break down and recycle damaged components. This “clean-up” is linked in research to protection against some age-related diseases and improved cell health.
None of this is the reason we fast, but it is a sign of Allah’s mercy that an act done for His sake also benefits our bodies.
We do not need to wait for Ramadan or a special month to taste these benefits. The door of fasting is open all year – on Mondays and Thursdays, the white days, or even on random days we quietly choose for Allah’s sake. With every gentle hunger pang, the body is reorganising and repairing itself, and the heart is learning again to put Allah’s command above its own comfort. We may begin for His pleasure, but He fills the path with both spiritual and physical mercy.
Reflect On This
When hunger rises, what do we usually reach for first, food, distraction, or remembrance of Allah (swt)?
Share your reflections in the poll at the end of the email.
SADAQASECTION
Should We Launch This Morning Program
Would you be interested in a health and mobility program?
WATERMELONWATCH
A Palestinian woman walks past residential buildings damaged and destroyed during the war, in Gaza City.
Israel’s defence minister said Israeli forces would remain in Gaza indefinitely, adding strain to an already fragile ceasefire and political talks, while Gaza’s community kitchens and local volunteers keep daily food sharing going despite shortages.
UN warns that international aid groups face potential deregistration that could force closures, threatening basic services, yet humanitarian teams are still pushing winter support and essential assistance where access is possible.
OCHA reports worsening pressures from displacement and weather impacts, including families affected by severe storm conditions, while relief partners continue scaling shelter and emergency support to keep people safer through winter nights.
QURANCORNER
وَمِنْ شَرِّ حَاسِدٍ إِذَا حَسَدَ
“And from the evil of an envier when he envies”
Wa min sharri ḥāsidin idhā ḥasad
Hasad (envy) is a spiritual disease of the heart that leads to hatred and harm.
Envy can manifest in actions, ill-wishes, or evil eyes.
The verse acknowledges the real harm that envy can cause and instructs the believer to seek divine protection.