Although fasting for Ramadan is one of the mandatory Five Pillars of Islam, there are exceptions or allowances for those unable to perform the fast. Exemptions are permitted for pregnant or nursing women, children, the elderly, the ill, the disabled, travelers, and those with mental health issues. Those who are ill or traveling can make up the fasting time at a later date. If one’s fast is invalidated by eating or drinking at the wrong time, the lost day of fasting can be made up later with an extra day of fasting. For some Muslims, volunteering, performing righteous works, or feeding the poor can also be substituted for fasting if necessary.
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