We must prioritize exercise as a vital component of our daily routine. Regular exercise aids in weight loss and strengthens our muscles and bones, reduces the risk of diseases, improves the quality of our sleep, and enhances our mental well-being. Therefore, let us consciously incorporate exercise into our daily lives and reap the benefits of a healthy lifestyle.

Jogging is one of the most effective exercises for maintaining a healthy lifestyle. What about jogging during Ramadan? Should it happen before or after Iftar?

Benefits and risks of jogging before Iftar

Jogging on an empty stomach before breaking the fast can have benefits, but research is limited and there are pros and cons. Some benefits of jogging on an empty stomach include:

Increases fat burn

Studies suggest that jogging while fasting can increase fat burning due to low carbohydrate levels, causing the body to utilize fat as a primary energy source.

Reduced energy intake

According to some studies, people who exercise on an empty stomach consume less energy over a day.

Fewer digestive problems

Jogging on an empty stomach can reduce your chances of experiencing digestive issues during or after exercises, such as stomach cramps, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. This is especially beneficial for people who experience digestive issues while exercising.

Read more: Should I Take Medication During Ramadan Fasting? What Is The Schedule?

Jogging or doing other exercises on an empty stomach has some disadvantages, including:

• Reduces exercise intensity and may result in fatigue
• Fatigue increases the risk of injury while exercising
• Insufficient glucose in the brain can impair the ability to perform proper technique
• When the body lacks energy, cortisol levels can rise. High cortisol levels can cause protein breakdown in muscle cells, leading to muscle loss or weakness
• Jogging on an empty stomach may increase fat burning, but this is not an effective strategy for long-term weight loss
• Jogging on an empty stomach may not be safe for people with specific health conditions, such as type 1 and type 2 diabetes, because it causes a dangerous drop in blood sugar levels

Which Is Better, Jogging Before or After Iftar?

Now that you have learned about the benefits and risks of jogging before Iftar, you can decide whether to exercise before or after it. You can determine the best time to exercise based on your activities, daily schedule, physical condition, and personal preferences.

If, after weighing the risks, you decide to go jogging after Iftar, there are a few things you should keep in mind, including:

• Break your fast with a light snack like whole-grain cereal, whole-grain bread, fresh fruits, yogurt, or sugar-free granola bars. After you have finished jogging, you can eat a more balanced meal that includes protein, carbohydrates, healthy fats, vegetables, and fruits

Read more: Is It Safe To Exercise While Fasting?

• Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated and maintain body fluid balance. Breaking your fast before jogging allows you to maintain your running performance while also lowering your risk of injury

Do you struggle to find the right time to exercise during Ramadan? If you need medical advice or consultation, you can either visit a doctor or use the consultation features available in the Ai Care application by downloading the Ai Care application from the App Store or Play Store.

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