Can you fast during Ramadan if you're breastfeeding?

If you’re a Muslim and a new breastfeeding mum, you may be wondering whether you can safely fast during Ramadan and whether the fasting will have an effect on the composition of breast milk or your breast milk production. You may be wondering if your breastmilk will still meet your baby’s nutritional needs.

What is fasting?

Fasting is when someone willingly abstains from some or all foods and/or drinks for a certain period of time.

People may fast for many different reasons including intermittent fasting for weight loss and fasting for cultural or religious reasons such as Ramadan.

From a religious point of view, fasting is a means of purification, reflection and spiritual renewal.

Culturally, for those fasting outside of Ramadan it may mark rites of passage or periods of mourning, but for this article we will focus on fasting for Ramadan which means no food or water from dawn until dusk.

What is Ramadan?

The holy month of Ramadan is the ninth month in the Islamic lunar calendar. There are five Pillars of Islam, including Muslim creed (declaration of faith), prayer, charity to the poor, fasting in the month of Ramadan, and the pilgrimage to Mecca for those who are able.

How does fasting during ramadan work?

During Ramadan, Muslims will abstain from foods, drinks and sexual activities during the day, but are able to eat and drink during the night. This practice aims to purify the soul and helps foster empathy towards those less fortunate.

Are breastfeeding mothers exempt?

In Islam, the health and well-being of breastfeeding mothers and their babies are important and Muslim scholars and religious leaders do recognize the needs of breastfeeding mothers and babies, therefore pregnant women and breastfeeding mothers are exempt from fasting during Ramadan.

Some mothers may not want to be exempt, as they may feel a great need to do their part and participate in Ramadan.

This is especially true for mothers who may have been pregnant and breastfeeding for multiple years in a row and have had many missed fasts during Ramadan over the years.

Can breastfeeding mothers fast during ramadan?

Fasting during Ramadan may pose some challenges to breastfeeding mothers and babies, but research indicates that when a breastfeeding mother is well nourished and takes care to consume enough calories and water during the night hours, they can generally fast without seeing a significant decrease in milk supply.

Fasting during Ramadan is not recommended in the first 6 months of your baby’s life as they are still very young and completely dependent on your breastmilk, after 6 months when they start drinking water and eating complementary foods, it may be safer.

If possible, waiting until after your baby turns 1 year old is recommended as by then your baby will no longer be completely dependent on breastmilk alone and they will be better established on water and food.

It is very important to monitor your baby during Ramadan to make sure that they are getting enough milk as too long periods of not taking in fluids can cause severe dehydration in infants really fast. Frequent breastfeeding is especially important during this time.

How does fasting affect breastmilk composition and the milk supply?

Fasting has a minimal impact on breast milk composition and production. Studies have shown that the macronutrients, including fats, proteins, and carbohydrates, remain consistent in breastmilk before, during, and after Ramadan.

There is a possibility that some micronutrients such as Zinc, Magnesium and Potassium may be impacted by fasting. Although, one study showed a change or decrease in macro and micronutrients in breastmilk was only seen in women who fasted for 24 hours a day.

The milk supply may be affected during fasting, especially by the afternoon when milk naturally decreases or slows down. Some babies may become fussy during this time, breast compressions may help with this. It is incredibly important to start hydrating and eating as soon as possible to restore your body and your milk supply.

You may find that your baby breastfeeds more during the night and in the mornings as your breast milk supply will be higher than later in the day. Be sure to let your baby breastfeed as often as possible.

Tips for mothers who choose to fast during ramadan

Stay hydrated

The most important thing of all is to ensure that you’re taking in enough fluids when possible. Drink plenty of water between Iftar and Suhoor to prevent dehydration, which is crucial for maintaining your milk supply.

Do not drink too much water too fast as that can cause many other discomforts and issues, rather drink smaller amounts of water very frequently.

Try to abstain from caffeine and alcohol as much as possible as it can have dehydrating effects on your body and during fasting you will need every drop of water when possible.

Consume balanced and nutritious meals

Consume nutrient-rich foods during non-fasting hours to support your health and breast milk composition and supply. It will also help to keep up your energy levels to better handle the responsibility of being a mother.

Rather eat more complex carbohydrates, whole grains, lean proteins, healthy fats, and fresh fruits and vegetables. Dates and fruits are especially a good idea.

Make sure to consume plenty of extra calories as breastfeeding mothers need on average around 1800 calories a day.

Ramadan Dinner Ideas – 30 Delicious Recipes for Iftar

Breastfeed or pump frequently

Try not to skip any breastfeeding or pumping sessions. If you must miss a feed, consider pumping to maintain your supply as much as possible.

Breastfeed as much as possible, especially during the night and in the morning when your breastmilk volume will be at its highest.

Prioritize rest

Fasting can be very tiring, especially so being a mother and breastfeeding your baby. Rest as much as you possibly can to avoid overexerting yourself during this time.

Monitor your baby’s health

Monitor your baby closely and watch for signs of dehydration or insufficient feeding in your baby, such as fewer wet diapers, a sunken fonatelle and changes in your baby’s behavior such as listlessness.

Seek professional advice

Consult with a lactation consultant or healthcare provider regarding your plans to fast. They can offer personalized guidance based on your and your baby’s age and health. They can offer many tips to ensure the best for both you and your baby.

Important notes

Fasting in the first 6 months postpartum, when you have multiples, a low milk supply, a premature or sick/vulnerable baby are not recommended as your baby will need all the milk they can get.

The age of your baby will be an important factor when deciding whether you’ll be fasting during Ramadan or not.

Fasting in the first 6 months postpartum is not recommended as your baby is still completely dependent on your breastmilk. Wait until after 6 months, or even better 12 months. As by then your baby will be more established on water and food and will be fine if the milk supply slightly decreases.

Contact an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) for any and all evidence based information and support related to breastfeeding.

If you’re ever worried about your or your baby’s health and wellbeing, or you just need medical advice, be sure to consult with your healthcare provider.