Institut Teknologi Bandung

At the event, both lecturers discussed the theme of “Vigorous While Fasting.”

Nia defined the term vigorous or fit as a condition in which the body is able to do relatively intense physical activities without experiencing fatigue or physiological disorders. This level of fitness differs from person to person, and it is dependent on both internal and external factors, such as nutrition, exercise frequency, age, and more.

“When we sit, we may look healthy from the outside. But when we do physical activities, our level of vigor starts to show. Healthy people are not necessarily vigorous, but vigorous people are definitely healthy,” she said.

When fasting, the body’s vigor will naturally decrease at certain times due to breaks in food and drink consumption. This is shown by a physiological response, causing the body to feel feeble.

Fahmi further mentioned that this condition is perfectly normal and will not incur any dangerous side effects. To overcome this, the key is to regulate food consumption during iftar and suhoor.

Conversely, excessive food consumption, combined with the lack of physical activity during fasting, can lead to obesity for certain people. As such, it is crucial to keep the body’s vigor level by doing physical activities appropriate to each person’s capabilities.

“Psychologically, the condition of being feeble makes us lazy to do activities. What’s worse, our response during iftar and suhoor is sometimes overeating. In the end, the calorie obtained becomes a surplus,” stated Fahmi.

Those who are fasting are therefore advised to keep doing light physical activities, especially before iftar. Nia added that the physical activities should be safe, measurable, and fun. Recommended physical activities include walking and jogging.

Additionally, food intake should be appropriately maintained to stay vigorous when fasting. Food consumed during iftar and suhoor must contain necessary and balanced nutrients, such as complex carbohydrates, protein, fat, and fiber.

The amount of food eaten should also be adjusted to the body’s needs so that it is neither excessive nor deficient.

“The exact need for nutritional intake is different from one person to another, as it is based on the person’s body weight,” said Fahmi.

Moreover, the psychological aspects are just as important as the physical ones. In this context, we have to manage our emotions and moods when fasting, as stress will also indirectly affect the body.

Stressed people are more likely to avoid physical activities and neglect their food consumption. These factors can ultimately lead to a decline in the body’s vigor and health during fasting.

Reporter: Hanifa Juliana (Urban and Regional Planning ‘20)
Translator: Ariq Ramadhan Teruna (Chemical Engineering ‘21)
Editor: Ayesha Lativa Mafaza (Postharvest Technology, ‘21)