It was a pleasure to read Dana Schmidt’s Oct. 27 article, “Muslims in Ames will observe Ramadan beginning Monday.”

Fasting has been prescribed in Islam just as it had been prescribed in earlier Abrahamic religions, as well as Egyptian religions.

Fasting has been found to be an effective treatment for psychological and emotional disorders. It helps a person to firm up his will, cultivate and refine his taste and manners, strengthen his conviction of doing good and avoid controversy, petulance and rashness, all of which contribute toward a healthy personality.

The benefits of fasting on health do not stop there but are instrumental in alleviating a number of physical diseases, including those of the digestive system.

A Swiss physician Dr. Barsilus noted, “Generally speaking, fasting hastens the destruction of the decaying tissues of the body by means of hunger, and then builds new tissues through nutrition.” This is why some scientists suggest that fasting should be regarded as an effective means of restoring youthfulness and longevity. However, Islam exempts from fasting sick and old people whose health is bound to deteriorate.

Fasting should have regulations to make sure it improves health and stamina rather than harm them.

Adeel Ahmed

Senior

Computer Engineering