Welcome to the Get Healthy Tampa Bay Podcast! This week, I’m joined by Dr. Umar Salim, a board-certified family medicine physician and founder of Gravity Health, a family-centered practice offering primary care, medical weight loss, and concierge medicine.
In this episode, Dr. Salim shares her personal and professional insights on Ramadan and fasting, explaining how this sacred month is not only a time of spiritual renewal but also offers profound health benefits. We discuss how fasting impacts metabolic health, inflammation, cognitive function, and hormone regulation, and why so many patients see improvements in cholesterol, insulin sensitivity, and overall well-being.
Dr. Saleem also dives into how she helps patients adjust their medications and lifestyles during Ramadan, ensuring they can fast safely while managing chronic conditions. Plus, we explore the mental clarity and discipline that fasting fosters, and how this month strengthens both community connections and individual mindfulness.
Whether you’re curious about the science behind fasting, its spiritual significance, or practical tips for making it work for your lifestyle, this episode is packed with valuable takeaways. Tune in to learn how Ramadan can be a powerful reset for both body and mind!
Dr. Umara Saleem is an accomplished board certified family physician serving the greater Tampa community. With over ten years of experience in family medicine and 20 years of charity work, she brings a wealth of knowledge and compassion to her practice. Dr. Saleem is passionate about providing comprehensive care for patients of all ages, with a particular focus on teens, women's health, mental health advocacy, lifestyle medicine, academic medicine, and preventative care.
Newly in private practice at Gravity Health, she’s gained additional certification in medical weight loss and natural beauty enhancing aesthetics. She has won numerous awards in teaching, pediatrics, women’s, & mental health. She was recently honored as a Top Women’s Doctor in Florida.
She’s dedicated to care for the patient inside and to support you on your journey towards optimal health! In her spare time, she loves spending time with her family, exploring new restaurants and beaches, mindfullness, teaching Premed/ medical students, nature photography, volunteering for local refugee organizations, running/swimming, and mentoring the next generation of women doctors.
00:00 – Introduction and Guest Welcome
01:15 – Meet Dr. Umar Salim and Her Practice
04:30 – The Family-Centered Approach to Medicine
07:45 – What is Ramadan and Why is Fasting Important?
12:10 – Adjusting Medications and Healthcare During Ramadan
18:20 – Health Benefits of Fasting: Metabolism, Inflammation, and Brain Function
23:35 – Spiritual and Psychological Aspects of Fasting
28:50 – Common Misconceptions About Fasting and Hydration
33:40 – Tips for Preparing for Ramadan as a First-Time Faster
38:55 – Closing Thoughts and Where to Find Dr. Saleem
Connect with Dr. Saleem
Telephone: (813) 521-6700
Fax: (813) 315-9698
Website: gravityhealthfl.com
Email: [email protected]
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