Ramadan's routine shake-up: How fasting affects sleep, mood, and meals

Ramadan brings big changes to daily life—long stretches without food or water, later nights, and shorter mornings. For many adults in Saudi Arabia, this shift can mess with more than just hunger levels. A recent study looked at how fasting affects mental health, sleep, and eating habits across the country. Over 460 people aged 18 to 60 took part in a survey where they shared details about their moods, sleep quality, and food choices during Ramadan.The results show some clear patterns. Women reported more sadness and less motivation than men, and they were also more likely to feel stressed. Older adults—especially those in their late 20s to 60s—struggled more with sleep and eating regularly. People living in Saudi Arabia’s Eastern region faced the biggest challenges, dealing with higher stress, worse sleep, and more irregular meals. Even work played a role, with employed participants feeling more tired during the day and snacking when they weren’t actually hungry. This isn’t just about missing a meal—it’s about how big changes in routine can ripple across health. Fasting forces the body to adapt quickly, but not everyone handles it the same way. The study suggests that women, middle-aged adults, and people in the East might need extra support during Ramadan to keep their moods, sleep, and diets on track.