There's no single answer to the question of when girls should begin fasting, as it depends heavily on the context. The question needs clarification regarding the type of fasting. We will address two interpretations: religious fasting (specifically, within the Islamic context) and other forms of fasting.
Religious Fasting (Islam)
For Muslim girls, the age at which fasting during Ramadan becomes obligatory is upon reaching puberty. This typically occurs between 10 and 14 years old, although individual experiences vary. Before puberty, fasting is encouraged gradually to acclimate the child to the practice. Several sources mention that teaching children to fast begins when they demonstrate the capacity to do so. Some scholars suggest around age seven or eight, alongside prayer practice, as a suitable starting point. However, the transition should be gradual.
- Puberty as a Defining Factor: Puberty is the key marker; once menstruation begins, fasting becomes obligatory (wajib).
- Gradual Introduction: Before puberty, parents often encourage children to fast partially or on select days to prepare them for the full observance of Ramadan.
- Varied Opinions: While puberty is the generally accepted marker for obligatory fasting in Islam, some opinions suggest slightly different ages.
References supporting this interpretation:
- IslamQA: States that the age should be when a child is able to fast, with some scholars suggesting ten years old as a benchmark.
- Reddit Discussion (r/Islam): Suggests starting around ages 7-8, gradually increasing fasting duration.
- Other online sources: Mention puberty as the defining factor (generally 10-14 for girls), with the age of 15/17 sometimes appearing as a secondary mark of religious obligation.
Other Forms of Fasting (Intermittent Fasting, etc.)
When considering other types of fasting, such as intermittent fasting for health or weight management, the recommended age for girls is significantly different. There's no universally agreed-upon age for initiating such fasting regimens, but it's generally strongly discouraged for children and adolescents due to potential developmental and health risks. It is crucial to consult a pediatrician or healthcare professional before introducing any fasting protocols to a child or adolescent. Their growth and nutritional needs are paramount.
This section is important because the original question is unclear about the kind of fasting.
References suggesting caution and consultation for non-religious fasting are found implicitly throughout sources discussing the risks of intermittent fasting. Note that many references regarding intermittent fasting, while not explicitly mentioning children's ages, clearly imply such practices are not advisable for the developing adolescent body.
