Depending on the religion, fasting will last for different lengths of time. In Hinduism and Judaism there tend to be individual days of fasting. However, the Islamic month of Ramadan is one of the longest periods of fasting, when it is compulsory for all healthy Muslims to fast between the hours of sunrise and sunset.
There are certain groups of people and circumstances where you may be exempt from fasting. For example:
- children (under the age of puberty)
- the elderly
- the sick
- those with learning difficulties
- those who are travelling
- pregnant, breastfeeding and menstruating women
- anyone who would be putting their health at serious risk by fasting, eg people who treat their diabetes with insulin or have diabetic complications (damage to eyes, kidney or the nerves in your hand and feet).
Speak to your religious leader if you want information about whether you are exempt from fasting.