MADINAH: Numerous studies have attributed the low productivity among employees in the early days upon returning to the workplace after Eid to the limited sleep they receive during public holidays.

According to specialists, changes in the biological clock of the human body during the month of Ramadan and holiday occur due to changes in dietary habits and limited sleep, and these have a direct impact on the level of productivity and the body’s ability to adjust.

A vast array of scientific research concludes that some of the negative impacts of a lack of sleep on human health are memory impairment, headaches, tension, anxiety and irritability.

Hassan Mohammed Thani, a professor of psychology, noted that sleep and rest patterns during public holidays and vacations often do not meet the human body's requirement of six to eight hours a day, which are needed to re-energize the body and improve mental performance.

He emphasized the importance of sleeping at reasonable hours and resting enough, especially after periods of poor sleeping habits such as during Ramadan, in order to recharge the body and improve productivity in the workplace.

As for the impact of food habits on employee productivity, nutritionist Lafi Al-Lahaibi said: “The rapid change in eating habits, from lighter meals in Ramadan to heavy and large meals during the Eid, has a direct impact on human health, and can often lead to fatigue and laziness.”

“Experts find that maintaining eating habits followed in Ramadan is beneficial because the body gets used to eating a specific amount during the month. Experts also warn against sudden changes in these habits during the Eid in order not to overwhelm the digestive system,” he added.