Children's fasting journey: When and how does it begin?

As the blessed month of Ramadan begins, parents start encouraging their children to experience fasting gradually, raising questions among many parents about whether children are capable of fasting like adults.

In this context, Dr. Hatem Mohamed Abdelhak, a specialist in internal medicine and pediatric emergencies, provided some important medical guidance.

Dr. Abdelhak explained that children under the age of seven have not matured enough to endure long fasting periods, but parents can encourage them to fast for a short period, such as from noon to sunset or from noon to sunset.

Children between the ages of 7 and 10 can fast for longer hours or even a full day, depending on each child's ability.

The specialist emphasized the importance of parents following some steps to help their children fast properly and safely. Among these steps is preparing healthy suhoor meals rich in energy such as proteins, vegetables, fruits, yogurt, and dates.

He also stressed the importance of drinking plenty of water between iftar and suhoor to ensure proper hydration throughout the day.

If any signs of fatigue, dehydration, headache, or dizziness are noticed in the child, Dr. Abdelhak emphasized the necessity of breaking the fast immediately.

He also highlighted the importance of monitoring children with medical conditions by a specialized doctor to ensure their ability to fast.

In a related context, the Egyptian Ministry of Health provided some valuable advice to encourage children to fast during Ramadan without affecting their health.

The ministry recommended explaining the benefits of fasting for children's health at the age of seven, encouraging them to participate in Ramadan decorations and celebrations to prepare them for this holy month.

The Ministry of Health also advised starting fasting gradually, emphasizing the preparation of iftar and suhoor meals with children's favorite foods to ensure their emotional and physical support.

It also pointed out the importance of consuming dairy products such as cheese and yogurt at suhoor to provide them with the necessary energy.

Finally, the Ministry of Health stressed the importance of rewarding the child when they succeed in fasting for long hours, enhancing their desire to continue this healthy challenge.

Experts advised that monitoring the child's health status is crucial, and if the child feels any fatigue or has any special health conditions, fasting should be stopped immediately.