2024-03-31 23:38:02
During the month of Ramadan, individuals with gastroesophageal reflux disease may experience worsening symptoms due to changes in eating habits and lifestyle during fasting, as esophageal reflux disease is known as a condition in which stomach acid repeatedly flows into the esophagus, leading to symptoms such as heartburn, chest pain, and regurgitation. .
Gastroenterology consultant, Ahmed Jazzar, explains that some factors that may exacerbate esophageal reflux during the month of Ramadan include delaying meal times, as suhoor and iftar meals are the main meals during the month of Ramadan, and eating these meals late at night or in the morning. Early morning, which can increase the risk of acid reflux. Eating large or heavy meals is also one of the factors that increases the problem, as some people eat large or heavy meals during suhoor or iftar, which may increase stomach pressure and lead to reflux.
Jazzar also pointed out that there are several factors that trigger esophageal reflux disease, including:
Fatty or spicy foods, which are commonly found on our tables during breakfast, are also considered a major factor in causing heartburn. These types of foods can relax the lower esophageal sphincter, which is the muscle that normally prevents stomach contents from flowing back into the stomach. esophagus, leading to reflux.
Excessive caffeine and soft drinks are the main causes. These drinks can exacerbate GERD symptoms by relaxing the lower esophageal sphincter and increasing stomach acid production.
Dehydration associated with fasting without adequate fluid intake worsens reflux symptoms.
Jazzar pointed out that managing the symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux during the month of Ramadan includes several health controls that must be adhered to, including:
- Adopt healthy eating habits and a number of practices that help you feel comfortable, including eating smaller, more frequent meals instead of large meals, and eating smaller meals throughout the night to reduce the risk of acid reflux. Avoid trigger foods: such as fatty, spicy, and acidic foods that can cause symptoms of esophageal reflux.
- Keep the body hydrated by drinking plenty of water between iftar and suhoor, as this helps reduce the risk of reflux, and limit caffeine and soft drinks. Here, water or herbal tea comes as a better alternative to drinks that contain caffeine or soft drinks.
- Avoid lying down immediately after eating, as you should leave at least two to three hours between eating and lying down to reduce the risk of reflux.
- Raising the head of the bed or pillow by about 6 to 8 inches can reduce symptoms of nocturnal reflux.
- Consider taking medication if lifestyle changes are not enough to manage the symptoms of esophageal reflux. Here you should talk to a specialist doctor about medication options that may help you.
The doctor concluded by saying: “It is important to listen to your body during the month of Ramadan and give priority to your health. If you suffer from severe or persistent symptoms of esophageal reflux, seek medical advice for evaluation and appropriate treatment solutions.”
Last updated: March 30, 2024 – 01:19
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2024-03-31 23:38:02