Correct, and its worse in SEA in hot countries due to dehydration. But luckily in the temperate climates, the day is short, so it is not long to go without food or water, and the dehydration is not an issue. I am not Muslim, by my family in SEA are. I had to participate in Ramadan when visiting them to show that I am not a just a free thinking, pork eating savage, by satisfying them I could endure it. Anyway, I believe in the adage when in Rome do as the Romans do. Boy, the dehydration gets you. By 12:00 noon I had a killer headache, and could not swallow a paracetemol because that would be classed as drinking water.
I think there is a difference between taking medication because you are ill, and popping a pain killer because fasting gave you a headache. My cousin told me that to experience headache is all part of the the fast. According to my limited understanding, an additional reason for the fast is to be reminded of the suffering that those in poverty/drought/famine endure.
To go for 12 hours without eating or drinking can be rough on someone who is working or moving around much, I think the idea is to stay in and relax. Meditate and think. Ponder. Gary
Eid mubarak to all. Ramadan is such a special month, true we cut out food and drink ( and sex) for the month , and its difficult for the first week or so , but after that your energy levels are incredible. personally i do my most intensive training during ramadan, its a great way to examine your energy sources. Regarding the headaches etc , this is usually the famous " healing crisis " when the body is not using its time to digest food it completely cleans out your system , the headaches are toxins etc being eliminated as the humours are realigned.
Selamat Hari Raya Idhul Fitri! Selamat Hari Raya everyone. I also ask for forgiveness body and soul . Krisno