During fasting in the month of Ramadan, the body’s metabolism changes due to difficulties in eating and drinking, as well as changes in sleep patterns. Most people with stomach ulcers or GERD are worried about fasting because they are afraid that the pain will heal.

Prof. Ari Fahrial Syam, MD, MMB, PhD, FACP, FACG, FINASIM, a gastroenterohepatology consultant, explained that by setting the right diet, heartburn during fasting can be overcome. Some people with organic ulcers can fast with the help of proton pump inhibitor drugs.

Prof. Ari also added, when fasting it is better not to overdo it when eating and drinking. Because in the stomach there is stomach acid that can damage the stomach and there is a stomach wall that can maintain stomach health. Therefore it must be balanced. If the balance is disturbed then the stomach can hurt.

Sufferers of functional heartburn occur because of things like irregular eating, the habit of eating fatty snacks, drinking coffee or soda throughout the day, smoking, and stress. When fasting, all things that can cause functional ulcers can be controlled and functional heartburn will improve.

Tips for staying healthy during fasting for ulcer sufferers:

– Keep suhoor and breaking the fast properly

– Keep taking medication for people with chronic diseases

– Continue to pray Taraweeh

– Iftar with three dates according to the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad SAW. The content of complex carbohydrates does not increase blood sugar and calories, and increases energy, there are elements of fiber and vitamins as well

– Avoid heavy food as an appetizer.

– Eat lots of fruits and vegetables.

– Get enough sleep and don’t overdo it

– Last meal 2 hours before bedtime

– Avoid foods that contain lots of gas, including fatty foods, certain vegetables (cabbage), certain fruits (jackfruit, Ambon banana), certain foods (ambarella fruit), and dried fruit, drinks containing soda

– Avoid foods that stimulate acid production such as coffee, alcohol, white wine, citrus juices, full cream milk

– Avoid foods that are difficult to digest, which can slow stomach emptying, such as tart, cheese

– Avoid foods that directly damage the stomach wall, such as spicy foods, pepper, chilies, and spices that stimulate Ramadan

Source: Tips buat Penderita Maag kala Ramadan – Gaya Tempo.co

Image Source: Getty Images