But what if your child truly feels unwell after fasting for a few days? Should you stop them from fasting?
According to Dr. Abeer Khayyat, Pediatric Consultant at Fakeeh University Hospital, a child’s health must always come first.
Is There a Specific Age for Fasting?
Dr. Khayyat explains that a child’s first fasting experience is an important milestone, but it must be approached carefully from a medical perspective. There is no fixed “ideal age” to begin fasting. Readiness depends on:
Physical development
Growth rate
General health condition
Psychological preparedness
Some children at eight or nine years old may be ready for partial fasting, while older children with low weight, anemia, or frequent fatigue may not be suitable candidates.
Each child should be evaluated individually before allowing them to fast.
Health Indicators of Readiness
Fasting readiness is not based on age alone. Important health indicators include:
Being within normal height and weight ranges for age
Maintaining good daily energy levels
Waking up without extreme fatigue
Showing ability to focus and complete daily tasks
Having stable mood and behavior
Not suffering from chronic illnesses such as diabetes, kidney disease, or digestive disorders
Children must also be able to clearly express symptoms like dizziness, extreme thirst, or fatigue so parents can intervene promptly.
Creating a safe emotional space where children can express their feelings without fear or judgment is equally important.
Is Partial Fasting Safer?
For a child’s first year of fasting, partial fasting is the safest and most balanced option.
The goal is gradual adaptation—not long hours.
Examples include:
Fasting from suhoor until noon
Fasting until mid-afternoon
Fasting only certain days of the week
Children have higher metabolic rates and smaller energy reserves than adults. They are more vulnerable to dehydration and low blood sugar. Symptoms may include:
Headache
Dizziness
Irritability
Weak concentration
Lethargy
Gradual adjustment reduces these risks.
Conditions for Safe Fasting
1. Never Skip Suhoor
Suhoor is essential. A balanced meal should include:
Complex carbohydrates (oats, whole-grain bread)
Protein (eggs, milk, yogurt)
Healthy fats (olive oil, nuts)
Water-rich fruits
Avoid:
Salty foods
Sugary foods
Caffeinated drinks
Soda
2. Balanced Iftar
Break the fast gradually:
Start with water and dates or fruit
Wait a few minutes before the main meal
Include lean protein (chicken, fish, legumes)
Add healthy carbohydrates and vegetables
Limit sweets
3. Prioritize Hydration
Encourage regular water intake between iftar and suhoor.
Avoid sugary and artificial drinks.
Water-rich foods like watermelon and oranges can help.
4. Regulate Sleep
Sleep is just as important as nutrition.
Ensure adequate nighttime rest
Reduce late-night activities
Allow short daytime naps
Limit screen time before bed
Warning Signs: When to Stop Fasting Immediately
Fasting should be stopped immediately if your child experiences:
Severe dizziness
Fainting
Persistent headache
Noticeable paleness
Cold sweating
Vomiting
Severe abdominal pain
Difficulty breathing
Chest pain
Breaking the fast in these cases is not failure—it is responsible parenting.
Consult a doctor if symptoms persist.
What About Psychological Factors?
Mental well-being is as important as physical health.
Some children feel proud and accomplished when fasting. Others may feel anxious or pressured. Parents should:
Encourage without forcing
Avoid comparisons with peers
Reinforce that health is part of religious values
Emphasize that fasting is based on ability and compassion
If school performance declines or clear signs of exhaustion appear, reduce fasting hours or return to partial fasting.
Final Advice from Dr. Abeer Khayyat
A child’s first fasting experience should be positive, gradual, and safe. The purpose is not to test endurance, but to build a healthy and balanced relationship with fasting—one that protects physical and mental growth while nurturing responsibility and self-discipline with proper medical awareness.
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