Keeping Gastrointestinal Issues at bay During Ramadan

Long hours of not eating and drinking oftentimes create gastrointestinal unease.  Some people exhibit acidity or “indigestion.”

When the month of fasting, Ramadan, for Muslims across the world arrives, it “sometimes” comes with some unforeseen discomfort.   During Ramadan, individuals restrain from eating and drinking from sunrise to sunset, approximately 12 or more hours per day.  Keeping the stomach empty for extended periods of time can cause reflux.  This can be relieved often by several home remedies and Anti-acids.  But since prevention is always better than cure, the following tips can help to control flare-ups. How do we prevent this from happening, when you cannot eat or drink?

Here are six tips to prevent indigestion during the Holy Month of Ramadan

1. Try not to load yourself with sugary foods or drinks before sunrise.  Sugary foods often give a huge boost in energy and then reduces quickly leaving you feeling tired.
2. Do not overeat when the fast breaks at sunset. Eat slowly and chew your food well to avoid creating excess gastric juices.
3. Avoid fried foods and spicy food intake.
4. Try to hydrate yourself well before sunrise and decrease caffeine intake as this leaves you dehydrated quickly.  Likewise, drink fluids after breaking fast to compensate.  Refrain from drinking caffeinated drinks.
5. Reduce your intake of carbohydrates as it tends to give you a sense of fullness but does not provide for long hours of energy.  Instead, foods that fuel the body for longer should be taken and they are mostly high in fibre.
6. Do not lie down or sleep directly after breaking fast.  You should wait 2 or 3 hours before lying down.

If all of these tips are taken into consideration, acidity can be greatly reduced during times of fasting. Visit your local Pharmacy or Doctor for further advice if symptoms persist. 

This post was shared by our good friends at Reckitt who are the brand owners of the Gaviscon range of products. Order them from MYDAWA here, and we deliver to your doorstep wherever you are in Kenya. If symptoms persist please seek professional medical advice from a doctor or other qualified and registered healthcare professional.