May 18, 2021 Medhat Abu Shaaban No Comments

Children and Teenager Fasting: Can Fasting Affect Development?

Children and Teenager Fasting During Ramadan in Dubai: Complete Guide for Parents

As Ramadan approaches, many parents in Dubai wonder whether their children should fast, how to prepare them safely, and whether fasting might affect their growth and development. These concerns are particularly pressing given that children have unique nutritional needs during their rapid growth phases, combined with the often-demanding schedules of school and extracurricular activities in Dubai.

At myPediaClinic in Dubai Healthcare City (voted the best pediatric clinic in Dubai), we understand both the cultural significance of Ramadan fasting and the medical considerations for children’s health. This comprehensive guide, developed by Dr. Medhat Abu-Shaaban and our nutritional team, provides evidence-based guidance to help Dubai parents navigate children’s fasting safely and successfully.

When Should Children Start Fasting? Islamic and Medical Perspectives

Understanding when children should begin fasting requires balancing religious teachings with medical considerations for child development.

Islamic Guidance on Children’s Fasting

According to Islamic jurisprudence:

Fasting becomes obligatory after puberty (baligh)
Before puberty, fasting is not required but may be practiced as training
Most scholars recommend gradually introducing fasting around age 7-10
The approach should be gradual, starting with partial fasts and building up
Children’s health takes priority—if fasting harms a child, it should be delayed
No pressure or force should be applied; fasting should be positive and voluntary

Medical Considerations for Age-Appropriate Fasting

From a pediatric health perspective:

Under Age 7: Generally not recommended except for very short trial periods (2-3 hours) to introduce the concept. Young children have high energy needs relative to their size and less physiological reserve.

Ages 7-10: Can begin gradual fasting introduction with partial fasts (until noon, then until mid-afternoon, gradually extending). Close supervision is essential.

Ages 10-12: Most children can handle longer fasts but still benefit from gradual introduction and monitoring.

Teenagers (Puberty Onward): Physiologically capable of full fasting similar to adults, though growth spurts increase nutritional needs.

Individual Readiness Varies

Every child is unique. Factors affecting readiness include:

Physical maturity and size
Overall health status
Activity level and school schedule
Emotional maturity and understanding
Nutritional status (underweight children need special consideration)
Climate (Dubai’s heat increases challenges)

Children with chronic health conditions, underweight status, or developmental delays may need modified approaches discussed with Dr. Medhat Abu-Shaaban at myPediaClinic.

Why Children’s Nutritional Needs Are Unique

Understanding why children require special consideration during fasting helps parents make informed decisions.

Higher Caloric Needs Relative to Size

Children require surprisingly high caloric intake relative to their body size because they’re not just maintaining their bodies—they’re actively building them.

Caloric Requirements by Age:

Ages 4-8: 1,200-2,000 calories daily (depending on activity level)
Ages 9-13: 1,600-2,600 calories daily
Teenage boys 14-18: 2,000-3,200 calories daily
Teenage girls 14-18: 1,800-2,400 calories daily

Active children and athletes may require even more. During growth spurts, requirements increase substantially.

Critical Nutrients for Growth

Children need adequate amounts of:

Protein: For tissue growth and development
Calcium and Vitamin D: For bone development (90% of bone mass is built during childhood and adolescence)
Iron: For blood production, brain development, and energy
Zinc: For growth, immune function, and development
B Vitamins: For energy metabolism and nervous system development
Omega-3 Fatty Acids: For brain development
Vitamin A: For vision and immune function

Rapid Brain Development

Children’s and teenagers’ brains are still developing, requiring consistent glucose supply for optimal cognitive function, concentration, and learning. This is particularly relevant during school years when academic performance matters.

Higher Activity Levels

Children are typically more active than adults, participating in physical education, sports, playground activities, and general movement. This increased activity burns more calories and requires adequate fuel.

Can Fasting Affect Children’s Growth and Development?

This is one of parents’ most pressing concerns, and the answer depends on how fasting is managed.

Short-Term Fasting During Ramadan

Research on children fasting during Ramadan shows:

When done properly (adequate nutrition during non-fasting hours, appropriate for child’s age), short-term Ramadan fasting typically doesn’t significantly impact growth
Inadequate nutrition during non-fasting hours CAN affect growth and development
Children who were already underweight or malnourished are at higher risk
Excessive restriction beyond Ramadan fasting can certainly affect growth

The Critical Factor: Adequate Nutrition During Non-Fasting Hours

The key is not whether children fast, but whether they receive adequate total daily nutrition. If children meet their full caloric and nutritional needs between iftar and suhoor, short-term fasting doesn’t harm development.

Warning Signs Fasting May Be Affecting Your Child

Watch for these red flags:

Significant weight loss or failure to gain weight appropriately
Extreme fatigue or weakness
Difficulty concentrating or declining school performance
Dizziness or fainting
Irritability beyond normal adjustment period
Decreased physical performance or reluctance to exercise
Persistent headaches
Sleep disturbances

If you notice these signs, consult Dr. Medhat Abu-Shaaban at myPediaClinic immediately to assess whether fasting should be modified or stopped.

Gradual Introduction: The Safe Way to Start Children’s Fasting

Gradual introduction is the recommended approach for children new to fasting, building physical and psychological readiness progressively.

Recommended Progression

Week 1: Half-Day Fasts

Fast from suhoor until 11 AM or noon
Break fast with a small nutritious meal
Eat normally for rest of day
This allows the child to experience fasting success without overwhelming strain

Week 2: Three-Quarter Day Fasts

Fast from suhoor until 2 PM
Break fast with a meal
Normal eating until nighttime
Child experiences longer fasting with manageable difficulty

Week 3: Extended Fasts

Fast from suhoor until 4-5 PM
Nearly full fast duration
Building confidence and physical adaptation

Week 4: Full Fasts

Fast from suhoor until sunset (regular iftar time)
By this point, child has gradually adapted
Experience feels achievable rather than overwhelming

Flexibility is Key

This progression isn’t rigid:

Some children may progress faster, others need more time
It’s perfectly acceptable to fast some days and not others while learning
Weekend fasts when there’s no school may be easier initially
Alternate days of fasting and not fasting during training period
Adjust based on child’s response and comfort level

Positive Reinforcement

Make fasting introduction positive and encouraging:

Praise efforts, not just completion
Celebrate successful fasts with special recognition
Create charts where children track their fasts
Involve children in iftar preparations
Focus on spiritual growth and family bonding, not just physical challenge
Never shame or criticize if child can’t complete fast

Essential Tips for Healthy Fasting for Children and Teenagers

Tip 1: Prioritize Three Nutritious Meals During Non-Fasting Hours

Children need structured meals to meet their nutritional requirements:

Suhoor (Pre-Dawn Meal):

The most important meal for fasting children. It must provide sustained energy:

Complex Carbohydrates: Whole grain bread, oats, brown rice—release energy slowly
Protein: Eggs, cheese, labneh, yogurt—maintains fullness and provides building blocks
Healthy Fats: Nuts, avocado, olive oil—slow digestion and extend satiety
Fruits: Bananas, berries, dates—provide vitamins, minerals, and natural sugars
Plenty of Water: At least 2-3 glasses

Sample Suhoor:

Bowl of oatmeal with milk, dates, and almonds
Scrambled eggs with whole wheat toast
Fresh fruit (banana or berries)
Large glass of water
Small glass of fresh juice

Iftar (Breaking Fast):

Start gently, then eat a balanced meal:

Initial Breaking: 3 dates and water (traditional and scientifically sound—dates provide quick energy)
Wait 10-15 minutes for digestive system to activate
Balanced Meal: Protein (chicken, fish, meat), complex carbohydrates (rice, pasta, bread), plenty of vegetables, healthy fats
Soup: Lentil or vegetable soup provides hydration and nutrients
Dairy: Yogurt or milk for calcium

Sample Iftar:

3 dates with water
Lentil or vegetable soup
Grilled chicken with brown rice
Mixed vegetable salad with olive oil dressing
Yogurt
Water throughout meal

Evening Meal/Snack (Between Iftar and Sleep):

Don’t skip this additional eating opportunity:

Healthy Snacks: Fruits, nuts, cheese, whole grain crackers
Light Meal: Can be another balanced meal if child is still hungry
Smoothies: Milk-based smoothies with fruits provide calories and nutrients in easy-to-consume form
More Hydration: Continue water intake

Tip 2: Avoid Excessive Sugar and Salt

Why Avoid Excess Sugar:

Causes rapid blood sugar spike followed by crash
Leads to increased hunger and energy crashes during fasting
Provides empty calories without nutrients
Can cause weight gain if overconsumed during non-fasting hours

Sugary Foods to Limit:

Sweetened desserts and pastries
Candies and chocolate (small amounts okay, but not main focus)
Sweetened juices and soft drinks
Kunafa, baklava, and other traditional sweets (occasional treats, not daily staples)

Why Avoid Excess Salt:

Increases thirst during fasting hours
Can lead to dehydration
May cause water retention
Particularly problematic in Dubai’s hot climate

Salty Foods to Limit:

Potato chips and similar snacks
Heavily salted nuts
Processed meats
Pickles in excess
Salty cheeses in large quantities

Tip 3: Focus on Whole Grains for Sustained Energy

Whole grains provide fiber and complex carbohydrates that release energy slowly, helping children feel fuller longer:

Best Whole Grain Options:

Whole wheat bread and pita
Brown rice
Oats and oatmeal
Quinoa
Bulgur wheat
Whole wheat pasta
Whole grain breakfast cereals (unsweetened or lightly sweetened)

Replace refined grains (white bread, white rice) with whole grain alternatives throughout Ramadan.

Tip 4: Ensure Balanced Nutrition Across All Food Groups

Every day during non-fasting hours, children should receive:

Protein Sources:

Lean meats (chicken, turkey, lean beef)
Fish (particularly omega-3 rich fish like salmon)
Eggs
Legumes (lentils, chickpeas, beans)
Dairy products
Nuts and seeds (if not allergic)

Dairy Products:

Milk
Yogurt
Cheese and labneh
These provide crucial calcium for growing bones

Fruits:

Aim for 2-3 servings daily
Include variety: bananas, berries, apples, oranges, melons
Fresh fruits preferable to juices
Dates are traditional and nutritious

Vegetables:

Aim for 3-4 servings daily
Include colorful variety: leafy greens, tomatoes, bell peppers, carrots, cucumbers
Can be in salads, soups, or cooked dishes

Healthy Fats:

Olive oil (staple in Middle Eastern cuisine)
Avocados
Nuts and seeds
Fish rich in omega-3 fatty acids

Tip 5: Hydration is Critical—Aim for at Least 2 Liters Daily

Dehydration is one of the biggest risks for fasting children, especially in Dubai’s climate.

Hydration Strategy:

At Iftar: 2-3 glasses of water
Evening: 2-3 glasses of water
Before Bed: 1-2 glasses of water
At Suhoor: 2-3 glasses of water
Total Target: 8-10 glasses (2-2.5 liters) minimum for children, more for teenagers

Hydration Tips:

Keep water bottle accessible throughout non-fasting hours
Set reminders to drink water regularly
Include hydrating foods (watermelon, cucumbers, soups)
Limit caffeinated drinks (tea, coffee, cola) that increase urination
Avoid excessive sugary drinks that don’t hydrate effectively
In Dubai’s hot climate, increase water intake beyond minimum

Signs of Dehydration in Children:

Dark yellow urine
Dry lips and mouth
Dizziness or lightheadedness
Headaches
Extreme thirst
Decreased urination
Fatigue beyond normal fasting tiredness

If your child shows signs of dehydration, have them break their fast immediately and drink fluids. Contact myPediaClinic if symptoms don’t improve quickly.

Tip 6: Adjust Physical Activity During Fasting Hours

Children should moderate physical activity during fasting to preserve energy and prevent dehydration:

Avoid intense sports during peak heat hours
Schedule PE classes and sports for after iftar when possible (speak with schools)
Light activity is fine, but intensive exercise should wait until after breaking fast
Stay in cool, air-conditioned environments during hottest parts of day
Rest when feeling tired—fatigue is the body’s signal

Tip 7: Prioritize Sleep and Rest

Ramadan often disrupts sleep schedules, which can affect children’s mood, energy, and school performance:

Maintain regular bedtimes as much as possible
Allow naps or quiet rest time after school
Balance evening social activities with adequate sleep
Children need 9-12 hours of sleep depending on age
Consider adjusting homework schedules during Ramadan

Special Considerations for Fasting Children in Dubai

School Performance and Academic Schedule

Dubai schools vary in their Ramadan policies:

Many schools reduce hours during Ramadan
Some adjust PE schedules for fasting students
Communicate with schools about your child’s fasting
Monitor homework completion—adjust expectations if needed
Consider whether exam periods conflict with Ramadan (this may influence fasting decisions)
Watch for excessive fatigue affecting concentration

Dubai’s Climate Challenges

Dubai’s hot, dry climate makes fasting more challenging:

When Ramadan falls in summer months, longer fasting hours and intense heat increase difficulty
Air conditioning, while comfortable, can be dehydrating
Children should limit outdoor time during peak heat
Extra emphasis on hydration during non-fasting hours
Parents may choose to delay fasting introduction during hottest Ramadan years

Extracurricular Activities and Sports

Many Dubai children participate in sports teams, music lessons, and other activities:

Discuss with coaches whether practice schedules can be adjusted
Consider temporary break from intensive training during Ramadan
Alternatively, schedule after iftar when child has energy
Don’t push children to fast on days with intensive physical demands
Flexibility is more important than perfection

Cultural and Family Expectations

Balance cultural expectations with medical realities:

Well-meaning relatives may encourage fasting before child is ready
Remember that Islamic scholars support gradual introduction and prioritizing health
Each child’s readiness is individual—don’t compare siblings or cousins
Focus on spiritual development alongside physical practice
It’s okay to say “not this year” if child isn’t ready

When Children Should NOT Fast

Certain situations warrant delaying or avoiding fasting:

Medical Conditions Requiring Caution

Diabetes: Fasting can cause dangerous blood sugar fluctuations
Chronic Kidney Disease: Dehydration poses serious risks
Severe Asthma: May worsen with dehydration
Epilepsy: Medication timing and dehydration can trigger seizures
Eating Disorders: Fasting may worsen disordered eating patterns
Underweight or Growth Concerns: Additional caloric restriction may harm development
Acute Illnesses: Wait until fully recovered

Children with chronic conditions should discuss fasting with Dr. Medhat Abu-Shaaban at myPediaClinic before Ramadan to develop safe, modified approaches if appropriate.

Signs to Stop Fasting Immediately

Have your child break their fast and seek medical attention if they experience:

Severe dizziness or fainting
Extreme weakness or inability to stand
Rapid or irregular heartbeat
Chest pain
Severe headache that doesn’t resolve
Confusion or difficulty thinking clearly
Vomiting
Signs of severe dehydration

Comprehensive FAQ About Children’s Fasting

At what age should children start fasting?

There’s no single answer—it depends on the individual child. Islamic scholars generally recommend gradual introduction around ages 7-10, but medical readiness varies. Consider your child’s physical maturity, health status, and emotional readiness. Many families start with partial fasts around age 7-8, gradually extending duration as the child grows. Consult Dr. Medhat Abu-Shaaban at myPediaClinic for personalized guidance based on your child’s specific situation.

Will fasting stunt my child’s growth?

Short-term Ramadan fasting with adequate nutrition during non-fasting hours typically does NOT stunt growth. The key is ensuring children receive their full daily caloric and nutritional requirements between iftar and suhoor. Problems arise when children don’t eat enough during non-fasting hours or if they fast year-round rather than just during Ramadan. Monitor your child’s growth—if weight or height progression slows, consult myPediaClinic to assess whether fasting modifications are needed.

Should my child fast if they’re underweight?

Underweight children need special consideration. Additional caloric restriction through fasting may further compromise growth and development. If your child is underweight, consult Dr. Medhat Abu-Shaaban before allowing them to fast. In many cases, it’s wiser to wait until they’ve achieved healthy weight before introducing fasting. If an underweight child insists on fasting for religious reasons, extremely careful nutritional planning is essential, and partial fasts may be more appropriate than full fasts.

Can my child fast if they have diabetes?

Children with Type 1 diabetes face significant challenges with fasting due to insulin management and risk of dangerous blood sugar fluctuations. Islamic law provides exemption for medical conditions. If your diabetic child wishes to fast, this requires very careful medical supervision, potential insulin regimen adjustments, and close blood sugar monitoring. Never allow diabetic children to fast without explicit approval and monitoring plan from their endocrinologist and Dr. Medhat Abu-Shaaban at myPediaClinic.

What if my child is fasting but performing poorly in school?

Fasting shouldn’t severely impact school performance if the child is well-nourished, hydrated, and getting adequate sleep. However, some fatigue and reduced concentration are normal. If academic performance significantly declines, consider: Is your child getting enough calories and nutrients during non-fasting hours? Adequate hydration? Sufficient sleep? Are they trying to fast every day rather than alternating? If performance doesn’t improve with these adjustments, it may indicate the child isn’t quite ready for full fasting, and partial fasts or alternating days may be more appropriate.

Should teenage athletes fast during competitive season?

This depends on the intensity of training and competition. Light recreational sports are generally fine while fasting. However, intensive training or important competitions during Ramadan pose challenges. Options include: training after iftar when well-fueled and hydrated, fasting on non-training days only, making up fasts after athletic season ends, or consulting with sports medicine professionals and religious scholars about modified approaches. Athletic performance will likely decrease somewhat while fasting—teenagers should understand this is normal and temporary.

Can my child take medications during fasting hours?

According to most Islamic scholars, oral medications break the fast. For children requiring daily medications (asthma inhalers, ADHD medications, epilepsy medications, etc.), consult both Dr. Medhat Abu-Shaaban and a religious scholar. Some medications can be rescheduled to non-fasting hours; others cannot. Children with medical conditions requiring medications during fasting hours are typically exempt from fasting under Islamic law. Health takes precedence.

What if my teenager wants to fast but I don’t think they’re eating enough?

This is common, especially with teenagers who may stay up late and skip suhoor. Set clear expectations: fasting is only allowed if they commit to waking for suhoor and eating adequate meals during non-fasting hours. Monitor weight weekly—if they lose more than 2-3 kg (4-6 pounds), fasting should stop. Consider requiring that they eat with family during suhoor to ensure adequate intake. Track energy levels, mood, and school performance. If concerns persist, schedule an appointment with myPediaClinic’s nutrition team for assessment and counseling.

Should my child fast on exam days?

This is a family decision. Islamic law permits breaking fast when there’s legitimate hardship. Important exams that require peak mental performance may warrant exemption, with the days made up later. Alternatively, ensure exceptional nutrition, hydration, and sleep before exam days if fasting. Some families have children fast on school days but not on major exam days. There’s no single right answer—consider your child’s individual situation and priorities.

How do I handle children at different ages fasting differently?

It’s normal for siblings at different developmental stages to have different fasting practices. Younger children shouldn’t feel pressured because older siblings fast fully. Explain age-appropriate expectations and emphasize that everyone’s fasting journey is individual. Praise younger children for their partial fasts while celebrating older children’s full fasts. Avoid comparisons between siblings. Some families have special acknowledgment for each child’s level (partial fast, full fast, first full Ramadan, etc.) to make everyone feel valued.

What if my child wants to stop fasting partway through Ramadan?

Ramadan is a marathon, not a sprint, especially for children still building stamina. If your child is struggling significantly, it’s perfectly acceptable to adjust: alternate fasting and non-fasting days, return to partial fasts, or take a break and resume later in Ramadan. The goal is building positive associations with fasting, not creating negative experiences. Never force children to continue if they’re genuinely struggling. They can make up missed days later or try again next year when they’re older.

How can I help my child succeed with fasting?

Success strategies include: gradual introduction rather than jumping into full fasts, ensuring adequate nutrition and hydration during non-fasting hours, maintaining consistent sleep schedules, reducing strenuous activities during fasting hours, creating positive family rituals around iftar and suhoor, praising effort and improvement, involving children in Ramadan preparations and activities, teaching spiritual aspects alongside physical practice, and being flexible based on child’s response. Make fasting a positive experience, not a test of endurance.

Should children fast during Ramadan if it falls during growth spurts?

Growth spurts increase nutritional needs substantially. If your child is in an obvious growth spurt (rapidly growing out of clothes, eating enormous amounts, etc.), this may not be the ideal year to introduce or intensify fasting. However, if they do fast, be especially vigilant about caloric and nutritional intake during non-fasting hours. Ensure they’re eating frequent, large, nutrient-dense meals. Monitor weight and energy levels closely. If growth appears to slow or plateau, reassess whether fasting should continue or be modified.

What should I do if my child sneaks food or water during fasting hours?

This may indicate the child isn’t developmentally ready for fasting, or that fasting is too difficult for their current situation. Rather than punishing, have an honest conversation: Is the fast too hard? Are they hungry or thirsty? Do they understand why Muslims fast? Sneaking food suggests they’re not fasting for the right reasons or genuinely can’t manage it yet. It may be better to return to partial fasts or wait another year rather than creating deceptive patterns. Fasting should be voluntary and meaningful, not forced.

How do I know if my child is ready to fast or if I should wait another year?

Signs of readiness include: showing genuine interest in fasting, physically mature enough to handle several hours without food, emotionally mature enough to understand the purpose, no underlying health concerns, able to communicate when genuinely struggling, and you as a parent feel comfortable with their attempt. Signs to wait include: very reluctant or only fasting due to pressure, significant health concerns, underweight or recent illness, extremely active schedule that year, or fasting would create significant family stress. When in doubt, consult Dr. Medhat Abu-Shaaban at myPediaClinic for professional assessment.

Are there resources in Dubai to support children’s fasting?

Yes, myPediaClinic in Dubai Healthcare City offers comprehensive support including pre-Ramadan consultations to assess readiness, personalized nutritional planning for growing children, growth and weight monitoring throughout Ramadan, guidance on gradual fasting introduction, and intervention if health concerns arise. Our team combines medical expertise with cultural sensitivity to support Dubai families. Call 04 430 5926 to schedule a consultation before or during Ramadan.

Comprehensive Support at myPediaClinic Dubai Healthcare City

At myPediaClinic in Dubai Healthcare City (voted the best pediatric clinic in Dubai), we understand the importance of balancing religious practice with children’s health during Ramadan. Our comprehensive services include:

Pre-Ramadan consultations with Dr. Medhat Abu-Shaaban to assess fasting readiness
Personalized nutritional planning for children and teenagers
Growth monitoring and weight checks throughout Ramadan
Guidance on gradual fasting introduction appropriate for your child’s age
Management of medical conditions during fasting
Emergency care if fasting-related health issues arise
Culturally sensitive support that respects both health and religious values
Body composition analysis using InBody technology for teenagers

Whether you’re introducing fasting to your child for the first time, managing a teenager’s fasting alongside sports or academics, or have concerns about your child’s health during Ramadan, our expert team provides the guidance and support your family needs.

Contact myPediaClinic at 04 430 5926 to schedule your consultation. Located in Dubai Healthcare City, we’re dedicated to supporting Dubai families with expert pediatric care that honors your cultural and religious values while prioritizing your children’s health and development.

Ramadan Kareem to all families. May this blessed month bring spiritual growth, family bonding, and health for your children.

Blog