Tisha B’Av is one of those days on the Jewish calendar when many people prefer to stay in their beds or close to them, to avoid fasting in the middle of the hot summer days. Fasting in the middle of the intense heat isn’t just uncomfortable; it places an additional strain on the body. Even people who are generally healthy may experience weakness, dizziness, exhaustion or fainting, particularly if they spend time outdoors, engage in physical activity, or do not prepare properly before the fast.

The fast begins this year on Wednesday evening, July 22^nd, and ends the following day at nightfall, Thursday, July 23. For these twenty-five hours, Jews around the world mark the solemn day of the destruction of the First and Second Temple with mourning, reflection, prayer and, you guessed it, fasting.

Even though many of our 8,600 volunteer medics, paramedics and emergency first responders will be fasting, United Hatzalah will remain fully operational throughout Tisha B’Av.

While our volunteers remain vigilant and ready to help anyone in need, careful preparation can reduce the risk of a medical emergency.

Preparing for the Fast

Preparing for the fast isn’t only about preparing a delicious and well-balanced meal to eat before the fast. Proper preparation includes drinking enough water throughout the day leading up to the fast. It is better to drink water regularly throughout the day than to attempt to consume a large quantity immediately before the fast begins.

Caffeinated beverages, including coffee, tea, cola and energy drinks, should be limited. Sweetened beverages and particularly salty foods should also be consumed in moderation, as they may increase thirst during the fast.

The meals preceding the fast should be balanced and should include complex carbohydrates, protein and vegetables. These foods can help provide sustained energy and maintain a feeling of fullness for longer.

Remain Cool and Cool during the Fast

Those who are fasting should remain indoors or in shaded, cool surroundings whenever possible, particularly during the hottest hours of the day.

Strenuous exercise, long walks, and unnecessary exposure to direct sunlight should be avoided. Activities that may ordinarily feel manageable can become far more difficult when the body is without food and water.

Children and teenagers who are fasting should also avoid unnecessary physical exertion and should remain under adult supervision.

Medical Conditions Require Extra Care

Older adults, pregnant women and people living with chronic medical conditions should consult their physician before deciding whether to fast.

This is especially important for people with diabetes, kidney disease, heart disease, high blood pressure, epilepsy, cancer, thyroid conditions or a history of serious dehydration.

Prescription medications should never be stopped, delayed or altered without guidance from a qualified medical professional. Anyone who requires medication should speak with a physician in advance about how it should be taken during the fast.

Religious questions concerning fasting and medical conditions should also be discussed with appropriate rabbinic authority.

Know the Warning Signs

It is normal to experience some weakness or discomfort while fasting, but certain symptoms should not be ignored.

Dizziness, nausea, blurred vision, severe headaches, vomiting, confusion, or feeling faint may indicate dehydration or another medical problem. Anyone experiencing these symptoms should move to a cooler location and seek medical assistance without delay.

A person who loses consciousness, becomes confused or is unable to stand may be experiencing a serious medical emergency and requires immediate attention.

It is also important to look out for others.

United Hatzalah urges the public to remain in contact with older relatives, neighbors and anyone who may require additional assistance throughout the fast. A simple phone call or visit can help ensure that someone who is feeling unwell receives help before their condition deteriorates.

Tisha B’Av is a day devoted to remembrance, reflection and communal responsibility. Taking care of our own health and paying attention to the wellbeing of those around us, is an important part of that responsibility.

United Hatzalah’s medics and paramedics will remain ready throughout the fast to respond rapidly and professionally whenever medical assistance is required.

United Hatzalah wishes the public an easy, safe, and meaningful fast.