Combined Effect of Ramadan Intermittent Fasting and COVID-19 Lockdown on Weight, Dietary and Lifestyle Patterns

Background: Ramadan fasting as a pivotal Islamic practice can profoundly affect dietary habits, physical activity, and overall lifestyle. This study investigated the impact of Ramadan fasting during the COVID-19 lockdown on perceived weight changes and lifestyle modifications among Muslims globally. This study was undertaken to assess the influence of Ramadan fasting and lockdown restrictions on weight perception and lifestyle changes, including dietary patterns and physical activity levels, across a diverse multinational sample. Methods: A cross-sectional multicenter observational study was conducted involving 21,657 adult Muslims from 20 countries during Ramadan 2020. Data were collected via a comprehensive electronic questionnaire covering dietary intake, physical activity, sleep patterns, and self-reported weight changes. Results: The analysis indicated significant lifestyle and dietary adjustments during Ramadan under lockdown. Participants reported shifts towards healthier eating, with increased fruit, vegetable, and home-cooked meal consumption. However, challenges such as reduced physical activity and increased intake of fried and sugary foods were noted. Marital status, age, and a family history of obesity were significant determinants of weight changes. Conclusion: Despite the pandemic’s constraints, individuals adapted their lifestyles during Ramadan fasting, reflecting the resilience of dietary and physical activity behaviors. The study highlights the complex relationship between religious fasting, health, and pandemic-related lifestyle disruptions, emphasizing the need for context-specific nutritional and health guidance.