February 17, 2026 | 07:40 pm
TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Approaching Ramadan, individuals reliant on coffee may face additional challenges. They suddenly have to reduce their caffeine intake while observing fasting and experience caffeine withdrawal symptoms.
Javeed Ashfaque, an Internal Medicine Specialist from Prime Medical Center Dubai, explained that caffeine withdrawal symptoms usually begin 12 to 24 hours after the last intake. These symptoms will peak between 20 and 51 hours and can last for two to nine days, depending on the individual's consumption habits.
When caffeine withdrawal symptoms occur, individuals may experience headaches, fatigue or drowsiness, irritability, and mood swings. They may also have difficulty concentrating, muscle stiffness, and may even experience nausea and abdominal pain.
A similar view is shared by Family Medicine Specialist at Lifecare Hospital in the UAE, Faisal Arshad. He stated that caffeine is a natural stimulant that enhances alertness and reduces fatigue. However, consuming it in high doses can lead to nervousness, palpitations, and insomnia.
"Abruptly stopping caffeine, especially during fasting, can trigger withdrawal symptoms such as headaches, tiredness, irritability, difficulty concentrating and even muscle discomfort," Faisal said in his analysis on Gulf News on February 11, 2026.
These perspectives from the two health experts can serve as a precaution for individuals observing Ramadan, especially those who regularly consume high doses of caffeine. Suddenly stopping consumption will certainly affect the body's condition during fasting, as it may easily lead to fatigue due to caffeine withdrawal.
Safely Reducing Caffeine
Both doctors recommend a gradual reduction approach. For instance, reducing daily caffeine intake by 25 to 50 percent. For example, if one previously drank three cups of coffee, they should reduce it to two for several days, then down to just one cup.
It is also important to get enough rest and reduce energy depletion during this caffeine reduction. Short walks or light activities can naturally increase alertness and support smooth fasting.
For coffee enthusiasts, gradually reducing caffeine consumption is a better solution than drastically lowering their dosage over a short period during Ramadan.
Read: From Asia to North America, When Will Ramadan Start This Year?
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