Ramadan is a holy month where fasting is observed from sunrise to sunset. This month has a spiritual and emotional value attached to it and all the Muslims fast and pray to God. The diet that is the basis of breaking our fast in Pakistan, however, is rich in fats and sugar that are bad for the body. It consists of oily fried food and sugary drinks that instead of giving our body energy and helping to maintain weight, end up doing the opposite. In addition to this overeating adds fuel to fire leading to digestive problems and acidity. Let’s discuss why that is and how to overcome this.
What are the Digestive Issues?
Having a routine where you eat as much as you can during Sehri which also consists of oily foods and the same at Iftari is the cause of digestive issues. This can include gastric pain, acidity, heartburn, nausea, bloating, constipation, or diarrhea. Consuming foods full of harmful fats and drinks with high sugar content are the main reason for this. Eating these foods fast without burning them out by exercising causes acidity and leads to gastric problems. Constipation can occur due to dehydration. If these problems are worrying you, it is recommended to get a consultation with a Gastroenterologist in Lahore.
How do I overcome these Issues?
A simple change in routine is very helpful in overcoming these issues. Let’s discuss some of them below.
1. Switch to a Healthier Diet
Simply put, cut those oily and sugary foods. Instead, switch to food that is rich in fiber and protein. This will keep up your energy for longer periods without causing fatigue and will prevent heartburn, indigestion, and problems like constipation.
2. Hydration is key!
Hydration is very important when it comes to tackling indigestion and heartburn. It will also help with your constipation. The way to do that is to drink your 8 glasses of water a day but keep it balanced. Do not over-hydrate at Sehri and do not do it as soon as it is time for Iftari. Instead, do it slowly in a balance.
Secondly, avoid sugary and fizzy drinks at all costs as it increases gastric acidity and aggravates the condition.
3. No Over-Eating
This rule applies to both sehri and Iftari. Eat a balanced meal at sehri and get good hydration. When it is time to break your fast, break it with a small healthy snack and water and then after a while follow it up with your usual meal. This will be easy on your stomach and will not cause acidity and the other unpleasant symptoms that come with it. When you eat your food, chew it slowly and completely before swallowing it, and take your time while eating. Do not eat fast and swallow your food whole.
4. Sleeping Right After Eating
This is the biggest mistake you can make and this fact is notorious for causing indigestion and heartburn. Never go to sleep right after eating. Always go to sleep after 1-2 hours after eating and avoid sleeping on your stomach. Give your gut plenty of time to digest food to avoid digestive problems.
Get Your Consultant’s Opinion
If none of the above methods work, go see your physician and take the medication that they prescribe. Most importantly take precautions so that you do not develop digestive problems in the future and can enjoy your Holy Month and pray in peace.
Conclusion
Ramadan is a holy month that teaches us about the importance of patience. It is important to show this patience when consuming our food as well as to spend a healthy Ramadan. This can be done by eating food that is rich in protein and fiber and by avoiding fatty and sugary foods. All of this helps in preventing the development of digestive problems in the body which can affect the normal habits and functions of the body. Refer to a Gastroenterologist in Islamabad for the treatment of digestive issues during Ramadan.
