Poor Sleep Pattern Changes During Ramadan Can Disrupt Metabolism and Concentration

SURABAYA, KOMPAS.com - During the month of Ramadan, there are changes in activity times, such as eating and drinking schedules that change due to fasting, and sleep times also shift. Regarding changes in sleep time, it turns out that it can have a broad impact, especially on health.

Lecturer at the Faculty of Public Health (FKM) UNAIR, Lailatul Muniroh, said that changes in sleep patterns during the fasting month generally occur due to changes in meal times for suhoor (pre-dawn meal), increased nighttime activities such as tarawih prayers, tadarus (reciting the Quran), socializing, and so on.

“In addition, fasting can get worse if you stay up late until suhoor. As a result, sleep becomes later, the duration of sleep is reduced, or the quality of sleep is disturbed,” said Laila.

She explained that changes in sleep patterns, such as staying up late until suhoor, carry the risk of causing drowsiness during the day, decreased concentration, mood swings, dizziness, and a weakened immune system.

In the medium term, it can disrupt metabolism, increase stress hormones, uncontrolled appetite when breaking the fast, weight gain, and disrupt blood sugar regulation and hunger hormone balance.

“Changes in sleep patterns also apply to excessive sleep, such as sleeping too long during the day. This can cause dizziness when waking up and disrupt sleep patterns because it is difficult to sleep at night,” she explained.

In addition, too much sleep can also slow down metabolism, especially if there is a lack of physical activity, which will make the body feel more tired.

To avoid a chaotic sleep pattern, Laila advises getting to bed earlier and avoiding scrolling through social media before bed.

Avoid staying up late without a compelling reason, and make it a habit to take a 20-30 minute nap to restore energy.

“Ramadan is a moment to learn self-control, as well as to train discipline in life. Regular sleep is not just about comfort, but part of maintaining the body,” she added.

“Make Ramadan a month to organize life’s rhythms to be more balanced, healthy, and of high quality. Because optimal worship comes from a healthy body,” she concluded.

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