Written by Mark Domanski, M.D.
This month of Ramadan has inspired me to write about fasting and how it relates to surgical recovery. I had several patients tell me they were fasting, so I wanted to write down my thoughts on this issue.
Religious fasting and surgical recovery
Fasting is common in many religious faiths. I understand that the Day of Atonement (Yom Kippur) and Lent feature types of fasts. “Dry January” could also be considered a secular fast.
I think several religions allow the sick to be exempt from fasting. However, as a doctor, I know more about how fasting can impact surgical recovery.
For elective surgical procedures, one option is to schedule the surgery outside of a fast.
From a medical perspective, I would encourage a patient to abstain from alcohol around the time of surgery. So “Dry January” is a great time for surgery.
I am not concerned about one day fasts, as such fasts do not typically impact a patient’s nutrition. Think about it: you can’t lose weight by skipping meals for one day!
I doubt there is surgical risk from giving up chocolate for lent. In fact, better blood sugar control is correlated with better outcomes!
Hydration–a key factor in surgical recovery
I do have a medical concern with fasts that do not permit water or other liquids. Without enough liquid intake, patients are at risk for dehydration.
The Annals of Emergency Medicine published an article from Turkey that showed a change in the types of surgical emergencies that occur during Ramadan. However, my literature search did not show any articles suggesting changes in surgical complications during the month of Ramadan.
Regardless, my medical advice to my patients remains the same: hydration is optimal. “If the pee is clear, nothing to fear. Dark yellow or brown, you are going down!” So, I still think hydration is a key factor in surgical recovery.
Most importantly, talk to your doctor if you plan a surgical procedure around the time of a fast.
Sincerely,
