Professor Dr. Ehteshamul Haque, a kidney specialist, explained that fasting during Ramadan may not be safe for patients with elevated serum creatinine levels. He stated that when serum creatinine remains below 3, fasting can be allowed, but if it rises above that level, fasting should be avoided to prevent further kidney deterioration. The risk of dehydration during long fasting hours can worsen kidney weakness and increase creatinine levels.

He recommended that kidney patients who fast should drink adequate water and eat simple foods such as flattened rice, yogurt, and khichuri at iftar. Light meals like roti with chicken curry and fruits such as papaya, wood apple, apple, and pear are suitable, while fried foods should be avoided. Dr. Haque also identified nephritis, diabetes, high blood pressure, and repeated urinary infections as major causes of kidney disease in South Asian countries.

He advised regular serum creatinine and urine tests for those with a family history of kidney disease or chronic conditions like diabetes and hypertension to detect problems early.