E112: Ramadan Reset: The Spiritual and Health Transformations of Fasting with Dr. Umara Saleem

Welcome to the Get Healthy Tampa Bay Podcast! This week, I’m joined by Dr. Umara Saleem, a board-certified family medicine physician and founder of Gravity Health, a family-centered practice offering primary care, medical weight loss, and concierge medicine.In this episode, Dr. Salim shares her personal and professional insights on Ramadan and fasting, explaining how this sacred month is not only a time of spiritual renewal but also offers profound health benefits. We discuss how fasting impacts metabolic health, inflammation, cognitive function, and hormone regulation, and why so many patients see improvements in cholesterol, insulin sensitivity, and overall well-being.Dr. Saleem also dives into how she helps patients adjust their medications and lifestyles during Ramadan, ensuring they can fast safely while managing chronic conditions. Plus, we explore the mental clarity and discipline that fasting fosters, and how this month strengthens both community connections and individual mindfulness.Whether you’re curious about the science behind fasting, its spiritual significance, or practical tips for making it work for your lifestyle, this episode is packed with valuable takeaways. Tune in to learn how Ramadan can be a powerful reset for both body and mind!00:00 – Introduction and Guest Welcome01:15 – Meet Dr. Umar Salim and Her Practice04:30 – The Family-Centered Approach to Medicine07:45 – What is Ramadan and Why is Fasting Important?12:10 – Adjusting Medications and Healthcare During Ramadan18:20 – Health Benefits of Fasting: Metabolism, Inflammation, and Brain Function23:35 – Spiritual and Psychological Aspects of Fasting28:50 – Common Misconceptions About Fasting and Hydration33:40 – Tips for Preparing for Ramadan as a First-Time Faster38:55 – Closing Thoughts and Where to Find Dr. SaleemConnect with Dr. SaleemTelephone: (813) 521-6700Fax: (813) 315-9698 Website: gravityhealthfl.com Email: [email protected] with Dr. RellerPodcast website: https://gethealthytbpodcast.buzzsprou... My linktree: linktr.ee/kerryrellermdLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kerryrellermd/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ClearwaterFamilyMedicineInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/clearwaterfamilymedicine/Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@kerryrellermdClearwater Family Medicine and Allergy website: https://sites.google.com/view/clearwa...Podcast: https://gethealthytbpodcast.buzzsprou...Subscribe to the Get Healthy Tampa Bay Podcast on Apple podcasts, Spotify, Amazon music, Stitcher, Google Podcasts, & Pandora.