Ramadan Nutrition and Weight Loss Injections

Ramadan fasting aligns well with GLP-1 weight loss medications like Mounjaro (tirzepatide) and Wegovy (semaglutide), as they suppress appetite and support sustained energy during non-eating hours. This combined guide draws on expert UK pharmacy advice for timing injections, hydration, balanced suhoor/iftar meals, and lifestyle adjustments to maintain health goals without compromising your fast.

Is It Allowed to Take Weight Loss Injections During Ramadan?

Necessary medications, including weekly GLP-1 injections, do not break the fast according to Islamic scholars and UK medical experts.

• Injections like Mounjaro or Wegovy are considered essential treatments, similar to other vital meds.
• Time them during non-fasting windows (after iftar or before suhoor) to minimize side effects like nausea.
• Consult your GP or pharmacist 4–6 weeks before Ramadan for personalized adjustments, especially if you have other conditions like diabetes.

Optimal Injection Timing for GLP-1 Medications

Weekly injections offer flexibility during Ramadan's dawn-to-sunset fast.

• Preferred: Evening (Iftar) - Inject after sunset, ideally during Maghrib prayer (30 mins), before eating to leverage appetite suppression.
• Alternative: Suhoor - Before dawn meal if it fits your schedule better.
• Studies on semaglutide/tirzepatide during fasting show good tolerance; avoid starting new doses or titrating up in early Ramadan.
• Do not pause unless advised – stopping may require restarting at lower dose, impacting progress.

Hydration Strategies to Prevent Dehydration

Dehydration risks rise with GLP-1s due to reduced thirst signals; prioritise fluids in eating windows.

• Aim for 2–3 liters between iftar and suhoor, sipped steadily (e.g., 500ml/hour).
• Include electrolyte drinks and water-rich foods like cucumber, watermelon, and soups.
• Avoid caffeine/sugary beverages that worsen GI side effects or cause crashes.
• Signs to watch: fatigue, dizziness - break fast if severe and seek medical help.

Suhoor: Pre-Dawn Meals for Sustained Energy

Suhoor fuels the fast; focus on slow-digesting, nutrient-dense choices to combat GLP-1 nausea.

• Complex carbs: Oats, wholegrain bread, barley porridge.
• Proteins: Eggs, Greek yoghurt, nuts, cheese.
• Healthy fats/fiber: Avocado, seeds, veggies (spinach, tomatoes).
• Hydrating options: Soups, fruits like bananas or pears.
• Avoid: Fried foods and heavy carbs that spike then crash energy.

Iftar: Breaking the Fast Mindfully

Start light to stabilise blood sugar, then build balanced plates supporting weight loss.

• Begin with: Dates + water/milk (traditional, hydrating).
• Proteins: Grilled chicken, fish, lentils, chickpeas.
• Veggies/salads: Leafy greens, cucumber, with olive oil.
• Whole grains: Quinoa, brown rice, chapati in moderation.
• Limit: Sweets, fried samosas/pakoras, excessive carbs/fats common in South Asian iftars.

Exercise and Lifestyle Adjustments

Maintain activity safely to aid digestion and weight goals without overexertion.

• Shift workouts to 2 hours post-iftar: Light walks, stretching, yoga.
• Avoid new intense routines; stick to moderate levels.
• Short post-meal walks help GLP-1 digestion and portion control.
• Rest more if fatigued – Ramadan prioritises spiritual balance over fitness peaks.

When to Consult a Professional or Pause Treatment

Monitor for issues and seek UK pharmacy/GP advice.

• Severe symptoms: Nausea, dehydration, low energy – consider pausing and restarting post-Ramadan.
• Free support: Contact your prescriber (e.g., the Your Pharmacy team) for email queries.
• Vulnerable groups (elderly, pregnant, chronic illness): May get exemptions; discuss early.

By aligning medication, meals, and hydration with Ramadan, patients often find fasting easier on GLP-1s. Always prioritise safety - Ramadan Kareem!