Ramadan 2021 in UAE: Set sleep routine, take power naps to avoid sleep deprivation while fasting

Ramadan 2021 in UAE: Set sleep routine, take power naps to avoid sleep deprivation while fasting

Abu Dhabi: Ramadan is a month of worship and togetherness, yet its nightly prayers and predawn meals can send the worshipper's sleep habits into a tailspin. Studies have shown that people who are fasting sleep for around an hour and a half less than usual. The quality of sleep can also suffer as it is spread out into smaller chunks over a 24-hour period. Doctors have therefore advised residents to set up a workable sleep schedule during the month, and to ensure they get at least four hours of uninterrupted sleep at night. "Sleep is a vital part of keeping healthy that allows the body to recharge and recover. A lack of sleep can affect a person's mood as well as their physical health, including weight gain to an increased risk of heart disease or even diabetes," said Dr Sobia Farooq, pulmonologist at Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi. On average, an adult needs between seven-and-a-half to eight hours of sleep every night, whereas children aged six to 12 hours need between nine and 12 hours of sleep daily. Dr Muhammed Anas Ayoob, pulmonary disease specialist at NMC Specialist Hospital, said many worshippers face acute lack of sleep during the night, which