Abstract

Abdulrhman M. Kamel*

ABSTRACT

Ramadan is known to be the holiest month of the Islamic calendar, during which millions of Muslims around the world fast the entire month and hence complying with one of the five pillars of Islam. During fasting Ramadan many physiological and metabolic changes occur due to change in eating pattern, physical activities and psychological behaviors. The aim of this study was determine the effects of fasting Ramadan on the cholesterol, triglyceride and behaviors amongst healthy Sudanese. in Khartoum. A Cross sectional study performed on 20 subjects aged between 18 to 47 in Khartoum state during the period of July and august 2011 (Ramadan 1432 H). Blood samples were taken to measure total cholesterol (mg/dl) and triglyceride (mg/dl) using analyzer machine selectra XL. Questionnaires were distributed amongst the participants for psychological assessment. Body mass index and physical activity also were performed. In our study the results showed that the change in total serum cholesterol and triglyceride levels were not statistically significant and all values within the normal range. Body mass index significantly decreased (P=0.000) at the end of Ramadan. Fasting Ramadan improve the negative psychological phenomenae. Regarding to control days shows that there was significant reduction of sadness, depression, feeling of boredom, decreased (but not significant) of irritability, tension and causing problems with others. Social and religious activities showed significant improvement. From the presented study Fasting Ramadan has no effect on the cholesterol and triglycerides levels, but give Muslims a good chance to reduce their weight. During this holy month the behaviors of people improve either socially or religiously and the negative psychological disorders will decrease.