Doing anything mentally or physically taxing while fasting would be a struggle for many people, but Carlton's Adam Saad says he loves playing AFL footy during Ramadan.
Through the Islamic holy month, most practising adult Muslims do not eat or drink between dusk and dawn. They instead have large meals before sunrise and after sunset, called suhoor and iftar respectively.
But that has not stoped Saad from picking up a game-high 29 disposals in Carlton's eight-point win over premiers Geelong to kick off round 2.
The 28-year-old said he worked closely with the club to ensure his performances and health did not dip during the month, which started on Wednesday night.
But he wanted to stress Ramadan was about much more than missing lunch or avoiding snacks through the day.
"I really have these conversations with passion," he told ABC Sport after the 13.12 (90) to 12.10 (82) win over the Cats.
"It's the holy month for Muslims around the world and we're not fasting just for food and drink, there's a lot more to it.
"It's a spiritual month, it's a month of reflection, a month of forgiveness. Islam and being a Muslim is a way of life for me, so I have conversations with the coaching group and with the fitness coaches and we set out a good program for me.
"I think the attention to detail with your recovery and prep goes through the roof as well. So I really love playing through Ramadan."
Saad said his faith and mental resilience helped him through the month.
"God gives us the strength during this month and I think you rely on your mental resilience," he said.
"It's amazing what the body can do and what you can go through. I find my limits throughout this month and I'm just so grateful to be here."
The Blues play three more games — against GWS, North Melbourne and Adelaide — all on the road before Ramadan ends on April 21.
