concerned that using appetite suppressants amounts to cheating

A moral dilemma is being presented to many Muslims all over the world about whether they should use appetite suppressants during the day when they fast for the holy month Ramadan. According to a Turkish news agency many Turkish Muslims use appetite suppressing medication to ward off the hunger pangs associated with not being able to eat when the sun is up.

Some Muslims have been concerned that using appetite suppressants amounts to cheating and therefore is not correct adherence to Muslim rules. However according to Mehmet Baris who is a senior muftu in Turkey the use of appetite suppressants is perfectly acceptable. He said that people who are using Reductil or other appetite suppressants are trying to discipline their bodies and this is commendable. He said that Muslims used many different things to take their minds off the hunger pangs such as having a cold shower and appetite suppressants should not be treated any differently.

During the month of Ramadan which will be starting on September 1st Muslims are not even allowed to smoke when the sun is up and the idea of denying themselves food is designed to encourage self discipline, an awareness of sacrifice and understanding of how privileged they are to be able to eat normally. While not eating for long periods of time is not usually good for health if it encourages you to lose weight it will generally be beneficial for you. Fasting is also good for self discipline and if you want to lose weight self discipline is something that you need.

Religions all around the world encourage fasting. Catholics, during the 40 days of Lent are asked to deny themselves something like chocolate or desserts. Most religions teach that there is no reward without sacrifice and you should apply the same principles before going on a weight loss eating plan.