Fasting in Germany 2026: Health Focus and Youth Challenges During Ramadan

A 2026 survey by #NDRfragt with ARD GESUND shows that in Northern Germany, fasting is increasingly seen as a health-driven practice rather than a tradition. Among 21,128 participants, 44% said they fasted, citing health (53%) and conscious abstinence (46%) as primary motives. Popular methods include abstaining from specific indulgences (55%) and interval fasting (43%). Over half (54%) reported weight loss and 36% felt more energized, though 22% experienced side effects like fatigue or irritability. While 44% saw no long-term lifestyle change, a third adopted healthier eating habits. Religious fasting remains less common, with only 9% observing Christian fasting and 1% participating in Ramadan.

In Berlin, discussions around children fasting during Ramadan highlight concerns about health risks. Experts stress that children should not fast if it endangers their well-being. Many children wish to fast to feel part of their religious community, but parents are advised not to force participation. Supervised fasting with adjusted activities may be considered for older children, whereas younger children might be given food and drink and allowed to decide. The practice of fasting crosses religious lines, existing in Islam, Christianity, Judaism, Buddhism, and among secular individuals practicing intermittent fasting or detox diets.

Fasting is thus portrayed both as a health strategy and a personal development tool. Participants like Clara note the practice helps focus on essentials and recognize food dependencies, while others report mixed experiences with interval fasting. The nuanced approach reflects evolving attitudes in Germany, balancing health benefits, social inclusion, and individual choice.