During Ramadan, not only food intake timing changes, but the entire daily rhythm of life is reshaped. Nights become periods for social activities and entertainment, while days turn into relatively sluggish phases punctuated by intermittent naps. Despite fasting not being physiologically burdensome when followed within a balanced lifestyle, many fasting individuals suffer from a chronic lack of sleep and disrupted sleep quality during this holy month, a phenomenon referred to as the Ramadan sleep crisis.

Scientific reviews indicate that the average nightly sleep duration decreases by about one hour during Ramadan compared to regular periods. This seemingly limited reduction accumulates over time, leading to what is known as sleep debt, characterized by continued partial deprivation of sleep along with accompanying mental and physical fatigue. Studies highlight that it is not fasting itself that disrupts sleep, but rather the accompanying habits formed during Ramadan.

Evidence shows that individuals who maintain regular sleep and wake schedules during fasting do not experience significant changes in sleep quality. This insight calls for a reconsideration of how cultural practices during Ramadan can be adjusted to promote better health and well-being, emphasizing the importance of consistent sleep patterns regardless of fasting hours and the impact of modern lifestyle choices on health outcomes during this sacred month.