For individuals with dyspepsia, fasting during Ramadan can present a significant challenge. Although fasting can have positive effects on digestive health, the discomforts such as stomach pain, bloating, and nausea often make people with dyspepsia hesitant to fast. They worry that fasting could worsen their condition.

However, people with dyspepsia can still fast comfortably. With the right preparation and a healthy diet, it is possible to fast without exacerbating their symptoms.

Fasting Tips When You Have Dyspepsia

Fasting with dyspepsia can indeed be difficult. To ensure a smooth fasting experience, here are some essential steps you can follow:

Consult a Doctor

Before starting your fast, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional. A doctor can offer guidance tailored to your health condition and suggest any medications that should be taken during fasting. This ensures that you can fast safely without worsening your dyspepsia symptoms.

Choose the Right Foods

It’s crucial to choose foods that are rich in fiber, protein, and complex carbohydrates, especially during sahur. Foods like oatmeal, whole wheat bread, and fresh fruits help you feel fuller for longer, stabilize stomach acid levels.

Avoid Foods That Trigger Dyspepsia

People with dyspepsia should be cautious about the foods they consume during fasting. Spicy, sour, fatty foods, along with carbonated and caffeinated drinks, should be avoided, as they can increase stomach acid production. These foods can worsen dyspepsia symptoms like heartburn, bloating, and nausea.

Instead, opt for foods that are easy to digest, low in fat, and high in fiber. These foods will support your energy levels throughout the day and help prevent dyspepsia from flaring up.

Eat in Small Portions

When it’s time to break your fast, start with small snacks, such as water and dates. These light snacks will help your body adjust after fasting all day.

Afterward, eat small portions to avoid overloading your stomach. Large meals can cause bloating and stimulate excess stomach acid production, which may worsen dyspepsia. Eating smaller meals ensures that your stomach doesn’t work too hard.

Drink Enough Water

Staying hydrated during fasting is crucial. Make sure to drink plenty of water, spreading your intake across different times: when breaking the fast, before tarawih prayers, before bed, and during sahur.

Water should be your main source of hydration. Avoid caffeinated and carbonated beverages, as they can increase the production of stomach acid and contribute to dehydration.

Take Medication as Prescribed

For people with dyspepsia, it’s important to continue taking medication as prescribed by your doctor during Ramadan. Make sure to follow the recommended schedule to help manage stomach acid production and alleviate any symptoms that may arise during fasting.

Avoid Sleeping Immediately After Eating

Lying down right after eating can exacerbate dyspepsia. This position can allow stomach acid to rise into the esophagus, causing heartburn or a burning sensation in the chest.

It’s best to wait at least 2-3 hours after eating before lying down. You can use this time for light activities, such as walking, to help with digestion and prevent discomfort.

If the symptoms of your dyspepsia interfere with your fasting, don’t hesitate to consult your doctor. You can also use the consultation feature through the Ai Care application, available for download on the App Store or Play Store.

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