Clinicians at Barts Health NHS Trust and religious leaders are encouraging Muslims in Waltham Forest to stay healthy during the course of Ramadan.

This year, the holiest month in the Islamic calendar starts on or around June 7 and lasts until July 6.

Adults are required to fast from dawn to sunset, but those in poor health or who have deteriorating health such as the very elderly, and mothers who are breastfeeding are exempt from doing so.

Residents who suffer from any chronic illness or health complication are advised to speak to their GP to see if they can safely fast during Ramadan.

The trust, which operates Whipps Cross Hospital in Leytonstone, is asking residents to speak with their local Imam if fasting is not recommended by their GP.

Imam Faruq Siddiqi, Barts’ Muslim chaplain, said: “Ramadan is a very important spiritual month for Muslims and fasting is one of the five pillars of Islam that is practiced during the month.

“Although everyone will want to fast, patients who suffer from any chronic illness or health complication should consult their GP prior to fasting, to see if they can do so safely during Ramadan.

“Remember that Islam enables you to avoid fasting if your health is likely to deteriorate and it will be un-Islamic to make your health worse due to fasting.”

Dr Tahseen Chowdhury, consultant diabetologist, added: “Many people in the area hope to fast during the month of Ramadan.

“It is important, however, that if you have significant health problems such as diabetes, heart disease or kidney problems, you consult with your GP, nurse or consultant and seek advice on whether or not it is safe to fast.

“Many health conditions can be seriously affected by fasting.”