Ramadan and Lapband

As salamu aleikum, I had lap band surgery in July and I have the large, VG band. I have had three fills and am experiencing some restriction. I had a fill scheduled for yesterday, but cancelled it until after Ramadan because I am having trouble eating and drinking "enough." I am especially concerned about drinking enough. My husband and I get up at a little after 5 am and so we don't allow much time for our morning meal. I spend most of the time trying to sip down as much water as I can and then I try to eat a little in the last few minutes before dawn. At night I try to drink as much as I can, but the water makes me feel full and I don't want to drink after I eat for fear of stretching my esophogus. Actually, drinking so much water in such a short period of time worries me, anyway, because I am afraid even the water will stretch my esophogus or pouch. Getting up earlier is really not an option unless I figure out a way to go to bed earlier. I work a full time (+overtime most days) job and I need my sleep. We have recently moved and the closest masjid is about 45 minutes away. I don't go but my husband goes every night and we aren't getting to bed before 11 pm. Six hours of sleep just doesn't cut it for me...I am sleepy all day--like right now. So, may I ask--what are you all doing? How is your schedule arranged? This is only my second year of observing Ramadan. Please feel free to answer no matter which type of surgery you had. Thank you so much and have a blessed Ramadan!

Ramadan Mubarak! Sorry I'm so late in responding. I had RNY, and unfortunately, my surgeon said no to me fasting this year (I won't even ask about next year). In lieu of fasting, I will donate a "fidyah," which is basically the equivalent of feeding one impoverished person for every day that you miss. Now, how much that costs seems to vary from sheik to sheik, but I think the guideline is that you should donate the cash value of 1.7 kg of wheat per day missed. As far as fasting goes, you might want to consider having a protein drink for suhoor. That way, you'll get your nutrition and your liquid, and you can drink even more water when you're done. Best wishes for a happy, healthy Ramadan!

Asalam Alaykum and Ramadan Mubarak. I know it has been a while since you posted but nonetheless I thought I would reply to your message. I am 3 years post op Gastric Bypass and actually chose to continue to observe Ramadan that year, I had my surgery in August of 2003 and Ramadan was that October. I did ask my doctor his opinion on whether or not I would be able to observe Ramadan. He knew how strongly I felt about it and that I was committed to at least trying it...although I can't honestly say that he encouraged it. I discussed it with my husband and decided I would try it. I gave it my best shot, and Hamdullilah, had a successful fast. I agree and do recommend that for Suhoor you have a protein shake or protein bar for the meal and also take your vitamins/supplements in the morning as well. If you do not already, you may want to add b-12 to your regimen which should also help with energy levels. It is really hard to pace yourself when you have limited intake capabilities. When I broke fast I tried to focus on protein based items as well, like hard boiled eggs, nuts, and chicken. I felt like I was eating and drinking from the moment I broke fast to when I went to bed trying to get in enough nutrition. I also kepy water by my bedside and drank throughout the night too. I did not suffer too much hunger though because in all honesty being that soon into the surgery I still did not gain my appetite back. With lap band it may be different of course. There is a possibility though that if it becomes too difficult to give in other ways in lieu of fasting. if you are medically uncapable of fasting it is not haram to not do so. Now that I am further out it is much better for me. I can eat and drink more than I could at first although I still tend to be overly tired and also lose weight. InchaAllah you will find what the best solution is for you. Ma Salama ~Samira