MANAGEMENT OF COMMON DIGESTIVE ISSUES DURING RAMADAN
As we are aware that Ramadan is a month of fasting and blessings for Muslims and we have almost reached the midpoint of Ramadan, and INSHA ALLAH we will continue to maximize our practice of fasting this month.
In the highlight of that today, I would like to bring up a subject that might be uncomfortable to discuss, yet it is encountered by many during this month: DIGESTIVE ISSUES.
INFORMATION AND STRATEGIES FOR MANAGING DIGESTIVE ISSUES DURING THIS HOLY MONTH
As you embark on the spiritual journey of Ramadan, your daily habits undergo considerable adjustments, especially regarding food intake. This transformation can impact your digestive system in multiple ways. Therefore, it is important to comprehend how fasting during Ramadan influences digestion to manage it more effectively.
Recognizing what to anticipate and how to handle these changes is vital for sustaining health and wellness throughout this sacred month. To support your digestive health, you can access the following medications from Dawa Healthcare Pharmacy or conveniently place an order through their online platform.
1. Acid Reflux & Heartburn
Cause: Consuming large portions, spicy or fatty foods, deep fried items and lying down immediately after iftar.
Symptoms: A burning sensation in the chest and a sour taste in the mouth.
Prevention: for acid reflux treatment in Ramadan opt for smaller meals, steer clear of acidic or spicy foods in Iftar, and remain upright post-eating.
Medicines:
● Gaviscon Liquid – Creates a protective layer to alleviate acid reflux.
● Proton Pump Inhibitors like Risek, Losec, Esso – Decrease the production of stomach acid and address acid reflux and GERD.
2. Indigestion (Dyspepsia)
Cause: Consuming large meals, fatty foods, or eating too rapidly.
Symptoms: Feeling bloated, discomfort, nausea, or stomach aches.
Prevention: Eat at a slower pace, chew food thoroughly, and limit carbonated beverages.
Medicines:
● Gastril – Contains digestive enzymes that aid in digestion.
● Motilium (Domperidone) – Assists with bloating and nausea.
● Plasil (Metoclopramide) – Promotes quicker stomach emptying to ease discomfort.
3. Nausea & Vomiting
Cause: Eating hastily, dehydration, or consuming excessively oily or spicy foods.
Symptoms: A sense of unease, stomach upset, and occasionally vomiting.
Prevention: Sip water gradually, avoid overeating, and enjoy herbal teas like ginger or peppermint.
Medicines:
● Stemetil (Prochlorperazine) – Manages nausea and vomiting.
● Motilium (Domperidone) – Aids in relieving nausea and bloating.
● Onset (ondansetron) – An antiemetic to overcome nausea and vomiting.
4. Constipation
Cause: Insufficient fiber consumption, dehydration, and lack of physical movement.
Symptoms: Hard stools, bloating, and discomfort.
Prevention: Incorporate fiber-dense foods, stay well-hydrated, and remain active.
Medicines:
● Duphalac Syrup, Lilac Syrup (Lactulose) – Softens stools and alleviates constipation.
● Laxoberon Syrup/Tablet (Sodium Picosulfate) – Enhance bowel movement
● Isphaghol Husk – A natural dietary fiber supplement for improved bowel movement.
5. Diarrhea
Cause: Contaminated food, excessive caffeine, or food intolerances.
Symptoms: Watery stools, stomach cramps, and dehydration.
Prevention: Avoid unhygienic foods and consume fluids rich in electrolytes.
Medicines:
● Enterogermina (Probiotic Suspension) – Restores the balance of gut flora.
● Lomotil (Diphenoxylate & Atropine) – Slows down bowel movements.
● ORS Sachets – Helps prevent dehydration.
7. Gastritis (Stomach Inflammation)
Cause: Prolonged fasting, high caffeine intake, or acidic foods.
Symptoms: Abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and a decline in appetite.
Prevention: Avoid caffeine and spicy foods, and eat moderately during suhoor and iftar.
Medicines:
● Nexum, Esso, Eskem (Esomeprazole) – Lowers stomach acid levels.
● Gaviscon Suspension – Calms the stomach lining and diminishes acidity.
● Pharmotidin, Famopsin (Famotidine) – Decreases stomach acid production, alleviating gastritis symptoms.
SOME NATURAL REMEDIES TO OVERCOME BLOATING, ACID REFLUX AND HEARTBURN IN RAMADAN:
During Ramadan, digestive issues like bloating, acid reflux, and heartburn can be common due to changes in eating patterns. Here are some natural remedies to help manage these conditions:
1. Bloating
● Ginger Tea – A cup of warm ginger tea after iftar can help relieve gas and bloating.
● Fennel Seeds – Chewing a teaspoon of fennel seeds (saunf) after meals can aid digestion and reduce bloating.
● Peppermint Tea – Helps relax the digestive tract and prevent bloating.
● Ajwain (Carom Seeds) – Soaking a teaspoon in warm water and drinking it before suhoor can aid digestion.
● Probiotic Foods – Yogurt, or fermented foods can help maintain gut health.
2. Acid Reflux & Heartburn
● Warm Water with Honey – A tablespoon of honey in warm water before suhoor or after iftar can soothe acid reflux.
● Bananas – Natural antacid properties help neutralize stomach acid.
● Chamomile Tea – Soothes the stomach lining and reduces acid reflux symptoms.
● Avoid Spicy, Oily, & Acidic Foods – These trigger acid reflux and worsen symptoms.
ENDING NOTE:
Managing digestive issues effectively allows you to focus on your spiritual journey without discomfort. To make your healthcare needs more convenient, Dawa Healthcare Pharmacy offers a reliable online pharmacy service, allowing you to order your medications from the comfort of your home. With seven branches across Karachi, Dawa Healthcare ensures accessibility and quality healthcare solutions throughout this sacred month.
Stay healthy and may your fasts be accepted!
