Ramadan 2017 – Who are exempt from fasting?

Fasting is done out of the love for Allah (God) and shows devotion, willpower, discipline, patience, selflessness, adaptability, unity, and closeness to the supreme being.

During Ramadan, fasting is compulsory for every Muslim who is mentally and physically fit and healthy.

But not everyone takes part. There are some exceptions.

Children under the age of puberty, normally around 14, are exempt but are encouraged to gradually start giving up some food and drink during Ramdan so they are better prepared when they reach the age of full fasting.

Also excluded are the severely mentally ill; those who are sick or elderly; people who are away from home on a journey of 50 miles or more; and women who are pregnant, breastfeeding or on their period.

Elderly or frail people are still expected to offer a meal (or its value) to one needy or poor Muslim every day of Ramadan.

Those who are too ill to fast during Ramadan, travelling or having their period must make up for every day of missed fasting at a later date.

The severely mentally ill are not expected to compensate for not taking part in the religious tradition