This year, Ramadan is expected to begin on the evening of Tuesday 17 February 2026 and end on Wednesday 18 March 2026, depending on the sighting of the moon. It’s important to keep healthy during this holy month and ensure you are observing Ramadan safely.

Ramadan is the ninth month in the Islamic lunar calendar. The practice of fasting is an important part of Ramadan. This involves the complete abstinence from food, drink and smoking between dawn and sunset over the month. It’s also a time for self-reflection and evaluation. 

Supporting you to have a healthy Ramadan

Do you take prescribed medicines? 

Remember to continue to take prescribed medicines during Ramadan, but do check with your GP if the doses need to be adjusted or the times you take them changed.  

Do you have diabetes? 

If you have diabetes and want to fast you should speak to your GP or diabetes nurse about the safest way to do this. There is an exemption for people with diabetes, especially for those on insulin or who have any medical complications.

More information can be found here: How to stay healthy during Ramadan if you have diabetes 

Attending medical appointments

If you have a medical appointment booked during Ramadan, it is very important that you attend. 

It’s important to remember that there are several exemptions allowed to fasting. These include those who are unwell due to conditions including diabetes, blood pressure, heart disease, lung disease, or those who are on medication, pregnant or elderly.  

What to do if you become unwell while fasting

The British Islamic Medical Association advises that if you become unwell during Ramadan, you should stop fasting and seek medical advice. You can do this by visiting  111.nhs.uk or your GP practice’s website, or if you don’t have access to the internet, by calling 111 or your practice directly.

The Muslim Council of Britain has created a health fact sheet that can be downloaded here: Ramadan Health Guide 2026 | Muslim Council of Britain