First off, a proper understanding of the energy dynamics and metabolic changes during fasting is important to have a clearer idea of the benefits of fasting. These changes are affected by the duration of the continuous fast. When the body is deprived from sources of calories, which starts within eight or more hours after the last meal (after the gut finishes the absorption of all the nutrients), it enters into a fasting state or mode. Normally, the first and main source of energy is sugar (glucose), stored in the liver and muscles. While fasting, glucose is retrieved from these reservoirs to produce energy. Once the glucose stores run out, the second line is the fat stores. Of course if a continuous fast spans days or weeks, the body goes into starvation mode and starts breaking down proteins for energy - this does NOT happen in Ramadan since you break your fast daily. In Ramadan, the body stores of energy are thus replenished through iftar and suhoor. Those meals are essential to allow a smooth transition in the use of energy from glucose to fat without the need to use the proteins in the muscles. Naturally, using up your fat stores will aid in weight loss without reducing muscle mass. An added benefit would be a sort of detox, as toxins are removed concomitantly with the fat.

To help your body benefit most of the fasting process, you need to provide it with balanced diet: avoid dehydration (especially in the hot season where fluids and minerals are easily lost through perspiration or sweating) by drinking plenty of fluids enriched with minerals, like laban. Additionally, to prevent muscle wasting, meals that contain enough, but not too much, energy from carbs and fats, should be ensured.