[quasistar]

While the author of the linked article expiates the hit coding performance can take when fasting I have personally observed an interesting phenomena during my observation of Ramadan. Namely, I can experience moments of acute lucidity and penetrating insight into a problem at hand.

Usually this occurs when I am in the midst of something that requires a good bit of effort such as tackling a thorny algorithmic conundrum or analyzing a particularly complex call stack. If I attune my mind to repress the pangs of bodily need I occasionally feel as if the external world melts away and I slip into an almost mystical state of oneness with the task at hand. Needless to say, I have been surprised immensely by this development.

One theory I have is that the blood flow that would normally be assigned by my body to the act of digestion is now free'd up to be reallocated to the ole cranium. Plausible? Unsure, but am certainly enjoying these life experiments!

Side note: for those observing the fast I have also noticed that my immune system is closely linked with the gut and my self-imposed starvations can lead to immune system compromise. Make sure you supplement your Iftar goodies with some replenishing nutrients such as pro-biotic yogurt smoothies rich in vitamin C and home-cooked chicken consomme.

[pronesmk]

I also tend to notice an increase in my productivity and ability to focus during Ramadan. A good breakfast is essential, I usually stick to yogurt, granola and vegetable juice - say my prayers then head back to sleep for a couple hours. I can't say I'm not hungry when 820 rolls around but I don't find the month debilitating and most of the time my co-workers don't realize I'm fasting until it's almost over.

[dinkumthinkum]

I think probably whether you think you're abnormally better or abnormally worse at coding while fasting, you're just getting some placebo effect of whatever you're inclined to believe. I'm not sure what evidence there is that a little fast has significant effect on someone's ability one way or the other.

[krmmalik]

yes and also your liver gets a break. i normally experience the same a few hours after what would normally be my lunch time. Feel very light physically and find it easy to attune attention and really be creative. i do wonder if the lack of music/tv throughout the month also has an impact

[thronemonkey]

>almost mystical state of oneness with the task at hand awesome