Mr Mershack Bankam, a Physician Assistant at HealthWise Hospital in Tema, has advised Muslims observing Ramadan and Christians undertaking the annual Lent fasting to increase their intake of fruits and vegetables to maintain hydration and proper nutrition.

Mr Bankam explained that consuming fibre-rich and nutrient-dense fruits and vegetables before and after fasting helps manage thirst, improve digestion, and sustain energy levels during fasting hours.

In an interview with the Ghana News Agency (GNA) in Tema, Dr Bankam said eating whole fruits and vegetables at both the beginning and breaking of the fast was essential to maintaining energy and electrolyte balance.

“It is vital for Muslims and Christians to eat fruits and vegetables to maintain energy and electrolyte stores,” he said.

He emphasised the importance of dark leafy greens and other nutrient-packed vegetables, noting that fibre-rich foods help maintain digestive health and prevent constipation, which is common during fasting periods.

He cautioned against excessive consumption of fruit juices, advising individuals to consume whole fruits instead.

“When you consume the whole fruit, you gain the full fibre benefit, which is lost in most fruit juices,” he explained.

Dr Bankam further urged individuals living with chronic conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, chronic kidney disease, or epilepsy to consult their healthcare providers before undertaking prolonged fasting.

“Consultations help prevent complications such as severe dehydration, hypoglycaemia (low blood sugar), and hyperglycaemia (high blood sugar),” he stated.

He noted that medical professionals could adjust medication dosages or timing, such as moving doses to before or after fasting, to ensure safe fasting practices.

“Fasting is not recommended if your medical condition is unstable, if you have advanced heart or kidney disease, or if you are on twice-daily blood thinners,” he cautioned.

The physician assistant reiterated that while fasting holds spiritual significance, health should not be compromised, and individuals must take proactive steps to protect their wellbeing.