For Muslims with eating disorders, Ramadan can pose dilemmas

Awaad said the question of if it is safe for a Muslim with an eating disorder to fast during Ramadan comes up frequently in medical circles. Photo: Jeff Chiu/AP

When the Islamic holy month of Ramadan begins, a battle rages in Habiba Khanom’s mind: If she goes without food or drink, is she doing it for God or because of her anorexia? Deep down she knows the answer, and it saddens her.

"If I did fast, it would be for my eating disorder,” said Khanom, a 29-year-old London resident.