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How To Deal With Acidity In Ramadan?

Surah Al-Baqarah 2:183-185

يَـٰٓأَيُّهَا ٱلَّذِينَ ءَامَنُوا۟ كُتِبَ عَلَيْكُمُ ٱلصِّيَامُ كَمَا كُتِبَ عَلَى ٱلَّذِينَ مِن قَبْلِكُمْ لَعَلَّكُمْ تَتَّقُونَ أَيَّامًۭا مَّعْدُودَٰتٍۢ ۚ فَمَن كَانَ مِنكُم مَّرِيضًا أَوْ عَلَىٰ سَفَرٍۢ فَعِدَّةٌۭ مِّنْ أَيَّامٍ أُخَرَ ۚ وَعَلَى ٱلَّذِينَ يُطِيقُونَهُۥ فِدْيَةٌۭ طَعَامُ مِسْكِينٍۢ ۖ فَمَن تَطَوَّعَ خَيْرًۭا فَهُوَ خَيْرٌۭ لَّهُۥ ۚ وَأَن تَصُومُوا۟ خَيْرٌۭ لَّكُمْ ۖ إِن كُنتُمْ تَعْلَمُونَ شَهْرُ رَمَضَانَ ٱلَّذِىٓ أُنزِلَ فِيهِ ٱلْقُرْءَانُ هُدًۭى لِّلنَّاسِ وَبَيِّنَـٰتٍۢ مِّنَ ٱلْهُدَىٰ وَٱلْفُرْقَانِ ۚ فَمَن شَهِدَ مِنكُمُ ٱلشَّهْرَ فَلْيَصُمْهُ ۖ وَمَن كَانَ مَرِيضًا أَوْ عَلَىٰ سَفَرٍۢ فَعِدَّةٌۭ مِّنْ أَيَّامٍ أُخَرَ ۗ يُرِيدُ ٱللَّهُ بِكُمُ ٱلْيُسْرَ وَلَا يُرِيدُ بِكُمُ ٱلْعُسْرَ وَلِتُكْمِلُوا۟ ٱلْعِدَّةَ وَلِتُكَبِّرُوا۟ ٱللَّهَ عَلَىٰ مَا هَدَىٰكُمْ وَلَعَلَّكُمْ تَشْكُرُونَ.

Translation of the above Ayat

O believers! Fasting is prescribed for you—as it was for those before you1—so perhaps you will become mindful ˹of Allah˺. ˹Fast a˺ prescribed number of days.1 But whoever of you is ill or on a journey, then ˹let them fast˺ an equal number of days ˹after Ramaḍân˺. For those who can only fast with extreme difficulty,2 compensation can be made by feeding a needy person ˹for every day not fasted˺. But whoever volunteers to give more, it is better for them. And to fast is better for you, if only you knew. Ramaḍân is the month in which the Quran was revealed as a guide for humanity with clear proofs of guidance and the decisive authority. So whoever is present this month, let them fast. But whoever is ill or on a journey, then ˹let them fast˺ an equal number of days ˹after Ramaḍân˺. Allah intends ease for you, not hardship, so that you may complete the prescribed period and proclaim the greatness of Allah for guiding you, and perhaps you will be grateful.

How To Deal With Acidity In Ramadan?

Ramadan is a time of spiritual reflection, self-discipline, and fasting from dawn to dusk. However, long fasting hours and changes in eating patterns can sometimes lead to acidity and digestive discomfort. Acidity occurs when stomach acid builds up, leading to heartburn, bloating, and a burning sensation in the chest or throat. Managing acidity effectively during Ramadan is essential to ensure a comfortable and healthy fasting experience.

Causes of Acidity During Ramadan

Several factors contribute to acidity while fasting, including:

• Irregular Eating Patterns – Sudden changes in meal timings can disrupt digestion and increase acid production.
• Overeating at Iftar – Consuming large meals quickly can put pressure on the stomach and trigger acid reflux.
• Fried and Spicy Foods – Foods high in fat and spice can irritate the stomach lining and worsen acidity.
• Carbonated and Caffeinated Drinks – Sodas, tea, and coffee can increase acid production and lead to discomfort.
• Lack of Hydration – Not drinking enough water can slow digestion and increase acidity.

Tips to Prevent and Manage Acidity During Ramadan

To reduce acidity and ensure a smooth fasting experience, follow these simple tips:

1. Eat a Balanced Suhoor
   • Opt for fiber-rich foods like whole grains, fruits, and vegetables to promote digestion.
   • Include protein sources such as eggs and yogurt to keep you full and stabilise stomach acids.
   • Avoid salty, fried, and spicy foods that can trigger acid reflux.
2. Break Your Fast Wisely
   • Start with dates and water to gently wake up your digestive system.
   • Have a light Iftar with soups, salads, and lean proteins before moving on to heavier foods.
   • Avoid overeating and chew your food slowly to aid digestion.
3. Stay Hydrated
   • Drink at least 8-10 glasses of water between Iftar and Suhoor to prevent dehydration and aid digestion.
   • Avoid excessive tea, coffee, and carbonated drinks, as they can increase stomach acid levels.
4. Avoid Triggers
   • Limit spicy, fried, and processed foods that can irritate your stomach.
   • Cut down on acidic foods like citrus fruits and tomatoes.
   • Reduce intake of sweets and sugary foods that can disrupt digestion.
5. Maintain Proper Posture After Eating
   • Stay upright after meals for at least an hour to prevent acid reflux.
   • Avoid lying down immediately after eating to keep stomach acids in check.
6. Incorporate Probiotics
   • Include yogurt and fermented foods in your diet to support gut health and aid digestion.
   • Probiotics help balance stomach acid levels and reduce discomfort.
7. Exercise Caution with Medications
   • If you frequently experience acidity, consult a doctor before Ramadan for guidance on safe antacids or medications.
   • Avoid self-medicating, especially with painkillers, as some can worsen acidity.

When to Seek Medical Advice

If acidity persists despite dietary adjustments or if you experience severe symptoms like intense chest pain, difficulty swallowing, or vomiting, seek medical attention. Chronic acid reflux can lead to complications such as ulcers or esophageal issues, so it’s important to address it early.

Conclusion

Managing acidity during Ramadan requires mindful eating, hydration, and avoiding triggers that increase stomach acid. By following these simple yet effective strategies, you can enjoy a smooth fasting experience without digestive discomfort. Prioritise gut-friendly foods, eat in moderation, and stay hydrated to keep acidity at bay. May you have a healthy and blessed Ramadan!

FAQs

1. Why do I experience acidity during fasting?
   Long fasting hours lead to increased stomach acid, and breaking the fast with heavy, spicy, or fried foods can worsen acidity.
2. What foods help prevent acidity while fasting?
   Opt for fiber-rich foods, bananas, yogurt, and whole grains, while avoiding acidic foods like citrus, fried items, and caffeine.
3. How can I manage acidity at suhoor?
   Eat light, protein-rich meals, avoid spicy foods, and include oats or yogurt to keep your stomach settled throughout the day.
4. Does drinking water help with acidity during Ramadan?
   Yes, drinking sufficient water between iftar and suhoor helps dilute stomach acid and prevents acid reflux.
5. Should I take antacids while fasting?
   If acidity persists, consult a doctor about safe antacid options that won’t interfere with fasting.