Fasting Safely, Free from Acid Reflux
Fasting should be healthy for the body. However, it can trigger digestive problems such as acid reflux and bloating in some people. The leading causes are improper eating habits during suhoor and breaking the fast. Refer to the tips below to ensure your fast is comfortable and free from stomach problems!
Foods and beverages to avoid
1. Sweet foods
Kolak, fruit, ice, and other sweet drinks are tempting, but their high sugar content can cause spikes in blood sugar levels and increase the risk of obesity and diabetes. Sweet foods should be consumed in moderation, using natural sweeteners like honey or dates.
2. Fried and oily foods
High-fat foods like fried foods can trigger indigestion, slow gastric emptying, and increase stomach acid production. To make healthier choices, choose baked or boiled foods.
3. Carbonated and non-carbonated drinks
These drinks can cause bloating, trigger acid reflux, and lead to weight gain. Instead, drink water, infused water, or fruit juice with no additional sugar.
4. Caffeinated beverages
Coffee, tea, and other caffeinated drinks have a diuretic, causing dehydration and stimulating stomach acid production. Reduce your caffeine intake and replace it with water or herbal teas that are more stomach-friendly.
5. Acidic and spicy foods
Consuming acidic and spicy foods can irritate the stomach and worsen symptoms of heartburn and GERD. Choose neutral and easy-to-digest foods, such as vegetables, non-acidic fruits, lean meats, and whole grains.
Tips for managing stomach discomfort during Ramadan
1. Choose healthy and balanced foods
During suhoor and breaking fast, consume complex carbohydrates, protein, fiber, and healthy fats to keep the body energetic and digestion stable.
2. Keep the body hydrated
Drink plenty of water during the hours of breaking fast until suhoor. In addition, consume water-rich fruits, such as watermelon and cucumber, to help maintain body hydration.
3. Eat small portions, but often
Avoid overeating at one time, as this can put pressure on the stomach. Eat small portions gradually to reduce the risk of stomach acid.
4. Improve your sleeping position
When sleeping, raise your head with an extra pillow to keep stomach acid from rising into your esophagus.
5. Make a good meal schedule
Avoid sleeping immediately after eating. Give a gap of about 2-3 hours after breaking your fast before resting so your digestive system works optimally.
Recognize the difference between heartburn and GERD
If you often experience heartburn, bloating, or nausea while fasting, it may indicate that you have an ulcer. Unlike GERD, where stomach acid or stomach contents rise into the esophagus (acid reflux), ulcers can cause a burning sensation in the chest (heartburn), regurgitation, and other symptoms, such as chronic coughing or hoarseness.
Visit GWS Medika Clinic, a trusted health clinic in Jakarta, to find out if you have stomach ulcers or GERD. You can also get an immune booster injection to help you more comfortably.
