Ozempic, Mounjaro and Wegovy, otherwise known as semaglutides, have been some of the most disruptive breakthroughs in the diet and weight loss industry for decades.
Originally created as a medication for people with type 2 diabetes as a way to manage blood sugar levels, it quickly made headlines for its effects on weight loss.
With research ongoing into the long-term effects of taking semaglutides both for diabetes and weight loss, the period of fasting during Ramadan may also affect how your body reacts to and metabolises the medication.
“Semaglutides are medications used to manage diabetes and support weight loss, working by suppressing appetite, slowing digestion and stabilising blood sugar levels,” says Dr Ruhil Badiani, family physician at Cornerstone Clinic. “These mechanisms make their use during Ramadan fasting a complex decision that requires careful consideration of individual health conditions.”
Is it safe to take semaglutides and fast during Ramadan?
Overall health, weight and dosage are all factors to take into account when understanding whether to take semaglutides when fasting during the Holy Month.
“Fasting while on semaglutides can generally be safe if managed correctly, but it is essential to consult with a healthcare provider before Ramadan,” says Dr Karima Arroud, consultant functional medicine and aesthetics at Wellth. “Semaglutides slow digestion and reduce appetite, which can align with the fasting schedule, but the individual’s overall health, treatment goals and potential risks like hypoglycemia or gastrointestinal discomfort should be assessed. Adjustments to dosage or timing may be required for a safe fasting experience.”
Users also need to factor in any other medications they are currently taking, as the effects of semaglutides coupled with fasting might have additional effects.
“One of the primary concerns is blood sugar management,” says Dr Badiani. “While semaglutides alone are not typically associated with a high risk of hypoglycemia, combining them with other medications, such as insulin or sulfonylureas can increase the likelihood of dangerously low blood sugar levels, especially during prolonged fasting hours.
"The large and often carbohydrate-rich meals consumed at iftar may lead to post-meal blood sugar spikes, which semaglutides aim to regulate,” she adds.
The importance of staying hydrated on semaglutides
Maintaining good levels of hydration while taking semaglutides is vital. Ozempic is prescribed with information warning about dehydration given that the medication can lead to a reduction in thirst for some users.
Reported side effects of taking the medication, both scientific and anecdotal can include constipation, diarrhoea, nausea, dizziness, fatigue and headaches, all of which can be exacerbated by a lack of water.
“Proper hydration is not just about metabolising the medication, but also to ensure overall health,” says Dr Ashik Kadambot, consultant gastroenterologist at Rak Hospital. “During Ramadan, drinking enough water during non-fasting hours is crucial, as gastric emptying is delayed by the medication. Hydration helps mitigate nausea and constipation. Individuals should distribute their water intake throughout the evening to maintain adequate hydration.”
Foods and drinks that act as a diuretic should also be avoided, such as coffee, green tea, watermelon and pineapple.
“I’ve been taking Mounjaro for about four months,” says Sara*, recruitment consultant from Dubai. “I was finding that as I got older, the usual ways I used to lose weight, such as upping my exercise or reducing carbohydrates were no longer working. I started on the 2.5mg dose and during Ramadan I will be on the 7.5mg dose. I spoke to my endocrinologist about fasting during Ramadan while taking it and she stressed the importance of drinking water as soon as I break my fast and getting up earlier to hydrate before sunrise.”
Adds Dr Arroud: “Incorporate fibre by focusing on high-fibre foods, such as whole grains, vegetables and fruits to improve digestion and reduce constipation risks.”
Breaking your fast on GLP-1 medication
After a day spent abstaining from eating and drinking, those taking semglutides should be additionally mindful when breaking their fast.
“Fasting can exacerbate gastrointestinal side effects commonly associated with semaglutides, such as nausea, bloating and indigestion,” says Dr Badiana. “Breaking a fast with a large meal after a long period of fasting may amplify these discomforts, particularly given the delayed gastric emptying caused by the medication.”
Experts suggest starting with a light meal that centres simple, easily digestible foods such as soup or dates, along with water, and avoiding fatty or carbohydrate-heavy options. Grazing on small amounts in the hours between iftar and suhoor is also advised rather than eating one large meal.
“Start with proteins, then vegetables and finally carbohydrates,” says Dr Hala Youssef Hamdy, specialist endocrinologist at Rak Hospital. “Opt for smaller portions and eat frequent, balanced meals to avoid overeating and ensure smooth digestion.”
Adds Dr Kadambot: “Overeating in a short time frame can lead to issues like vomiting or heartburn, as these medications slow stomach emptying.”
“What’s been so interesting about taking a semaglutide is just how effectively it takes away your appetite and quietens the food noise in your head,” says Sara.
“Truthfully, I think it will help me stay more focused while fasting because I won’t be thinking about food at all. The Mounjaro suppresses my appetite during the day and I tend to eat a small meal in the early evening after work which is similar to fasting hours.”
She adds: “This year, I do feel that I will be more mindful about how I break my fast. In previous years I’ve been guilty of diving straight into the food, but now that I’m more relaxed around food, I can take my time and enjoy smaller amounts.”
Should you stop taking semaglutides during Ramadan?
If using the medication for weight loss purposes, expert advice is not to come off of it for Ramadan. Stopping your injections can lead to weight gain, fluctuations in blood sugar levels and the fact that if you are on a higher dose, you would need to return to the lowest starting dose if you choose to restart your injections afterwards.
“Individuals who choose to stop taking semaglutide for Ramadan should be aware of potential changes in appetite, digestion and blood sugar control,” says Badiana. “Appetite may increase significantly once the medication is discontinued.”
Stopping semaglutides abruptly can lead to gastrointestinal changes, such as faster gastric emptying, which might affect how meals are tolerated.
“If someone decides to stop taking semaglutides for Ramadan, weight gain is a potential outcome,” says Dr Hamdy. “Plus, if they were on a higher dose, they will need to titrate the medication carefully after Ramadan by starting with a smaller dose and gradually increasing it, under medical supervision.”
For diabetics taking the medication, Dr Arroud suggests careful planning around injection timings and blood sugar level monitoring.
“Administer injections after suhoor to align with fasting hours,” she says. “This ensures the medication works in tandem with the day’s fasting schedule. Regular blood sugar level checks are vital, particularly in the early days of Ramadan, to identify and address any glucose imbalances.”
*name changed by request
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Engine: 4.0-litre flat-six
Torque: 450Nm at 6,100rpm
Transmission: 7-speed PDK auto or 6-speed manual
Fuel economy, combined: 13.8L/100km
On sale: Available to order now
The burning issue
The internal combustion engine is facing a watershed moment – major manufacturer Volvo is to stop producing petroleum-powered vehicles by 2021 and countries in Europe, including the UK, have vowed to ban their sale before 2040. The National takes a look at the story of one of the most successful technologies of the last 100 years and how it has impacted life in the UAE.
Read part four: an affection for classic cars lives on
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In numbers: PKK’s money network in Europe
Germany: PKK collectors typically bring in $18 million in cash a year – amount has trebled since 2010
Revolutionary tax: Investigators say about $2 million a year raised from ‘tax collection’ around Marseille
Extortion: Gunman convicted in 2023 of demanding $10,000 from Kurdish businessman in Stockholm
Drug trade: PKK income claimed by Turkish anti-drugs force in 2024 to be as high as $500 million a year
Denmark: PKK one of two terrorist groups along with Iranian separatists ASMLA to raise “two-digit million amounts”
Contributions: Hundreds of euros expected from typical Kurdish families and thousands from business owners
TV channel: Kurdish Roj TV accounts frozen and went bankrupt after Denmark fined it more than $1 million over PKK links in 2013
Specs
Engine: Duel electric motors
Power: 659hp
Torque: 1075Nm
On sale: Available for pre-order now
Price: On request
Real estate tokenisation project
Dubai launched the pilot phase of its real estate tokenisation project last month.
The initiative focuses on converting real estate assets into digital tokens recorded on blockchain technology and helps in streamlining the process of buying, selling and investing, the Dubai Land Department said.
Dubai’s real estate tokenisation market is projected to reach Dh60 billion ($16.33 billion) by 2033, representing 7 per cent of the emirate’s total property transactions, according to the DLD.
The biog
Favourite book: Men are from Mars Women are from Venus
Favourite travel destination: Ooty, a hill station in South India
Hobbies: Cooking. Biryani, pepper crab are her signature dishes
Favourite place in UAE: Marjan Island
BRIEF SCORES
England 353 and 313-8 dec
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(J Bairstow 63, T Westley 59, J Root 50; K Maharaj 3-50)
South Africa 175 and 252
(T Bavuma 52; T Roland-Jones 5-57, J Anderson 3-25)
(D Elgar 136; M Ali 4-45, T Roland-Jones 3-72)
Result: England won by 239 runs
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Creator: Mike White
Starring: Walton Goggins, Jason Isaacs, Natasha Rothwell
Rating: 4.5/5
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Analysis
Maros Sefcovic is juggling multiple international trade agreement files, but his message was clear when he spoke to The National on Wednesday.
The EU-UAE bilateral trade deal will be finalised soon, he said. It is in everyone’s interests to do so. Both sides want to move quickly and are in alignment. He said the UAE is a very important partner for the EU. It’s full speed ahead - and with some lofty ambitions - on the road to a free trade agreement.
We also talked about US-EU tariffs. He answered that both sides need to talk more and more often, but he is prepared to defend Europe's position and said diplomacy should be a guiding principle through the current moment.
10 tips for entry-level job seekers
- Have an up-to-date, professional LinkedIn profile. If you don’t have a LinkedIn account, set one up today. Avoid poor-quality profile pictures with distracting backgrounds. Include a professional summary and begin to grow your network.
- Keep track of the job trends in your sector through the news. Apply for job alerts at your dream organisations and the types of jobs you want – LinkedIn uses AI to share similar relevant jobs based on your selections.
- Double check that you’ve highlighted relevant skills on your resume and LinkedIn profile.
- For most entry-level jobs, your resume will first be filtered by an applicant tracking system for keywords. Look closely at the description of the job you are applying for and mirror the language as much as possible (while being honest and accurate about your skills and experience).
- Keep your CV professional and in a simple format – make sure you tailor your cover letter and application to the company and role.
- Go online and look for details on job specifications for your target position. Make a list of skills required and set yourself some learning goals to tick off all the necessary skills one by one.
- Don’t be afraid to reach outside your immediate friends and family to other acquaintances and let them know you are looking for new opportunities.
- Make sure you’ve set your LinkedIn profile to signal that you are “open to opportunities”. Also be sure to use LinkedIn to search for people who are still actively hiring by searching for those that have the headline “I’m hiring” or “We’re hiring” in their profile.
- Prepare for online interviews using mock interview tools. Even before landing interviews, it can be useful to start practising.
- Be professional and patient. Always be professional with whoever you are interacting with throughout your search process, this will be remembered. You need to be patient, dedicated and not give up on your search. Candidates need to make sure they are following up appropriately for roles they have applied.
Arda Atalay, head of Mena private sector at LinkedIn Talent Solutions, Rudy Bier, managing partner of Kinetic Business Solutions and Ben Kinerman Daltrey, co-founder of KinFitz
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Sheikh Zayed's poem
When it is unveiled at Abu Dhabi Art, the Standing Tall exhibition will appear as an interplay of poetry and art. The 100 scarves are 100 fragments surrounding five, figurative, female sculptures, and both sculptures and scarves are hand-embroidered by a group of refugee women artisans, who used the Palestinian cross-stitch embroidery art of tatreez. Fragments of Sheikh Zayed’s poem Your Love is Ruling My Heart, written in Arabic as a love poem to his nation, are embroidered onto both the sculptures and the scarves. Here is the English translation.
Your love is ruling over my heart
Your love is ruling over my heart, even a mountain can’t bear all of it
Woe for my heart of such a love, if it befell it and made it its home
You came on me like a gleaming sun, you are the cure for my soul of its sickness
Be lenient on me, oh tender one, and have mercy on who because of you is in ruins
You are like the Ajeed Al-reem [leader of the gazelle herd] for my country, the source of all of its knowledge
You waddle even when you stand still, with feet white like the blooming of the dates of the palm
Oh, who wishes to deprive me of sleep, the night has ended and I still have not seen you
You are the cure for my sickness and my support, you dried my throat up let me go and damp it
Help me, oh children of mine, for in his love my life will pass me by.
Mohammed bin Zayed Majlis
The bio
Studied up to grade 12 in Vatanappally, a village in India’s southern Thrissur district
Was a middle distance state athletics champion in school
Enjoys driving to Fujairah and Ras Al Khaimah with family
His dream is to continue working as a social worker and help people
Has seven diaries in which he has jotted down notes about his work and money he earned
Keeps the diaries in his car to remember his journey in the Emirates
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Six large-scale objects on show
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- The 17th Century Agra Colonnade, from the bathhouse of the fort of Agra in India
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- Frank Lloyd Wright’s 1930s Kaufmann Office
- A full-scale Frankfurt Kitchen designed by Margarete Schütte-Lihotzky, which transformed kitchen design in the 20th century
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Mohammed bin Zayed Majlis
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- Carbon sink: Seagrass sequesters carbon up to 35X faster than tropical rainforests
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- Coastal protection: Reduce erosion and improve water quality
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RESULT
Manchester United 2 Burnley 2
Man United: Lingard (53', 90' 1)
Burnley: Barnes (3'), Defour (36')
Man of the Match: Jesse Lingard (Manchester United)
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Zayed Sustainability Prize
