How to Take Care of Your Digestive Health This Ramadan 2026

Ramadan is a month of fasting, reflection, and togetherness. However, long fasting hours, heavy iftar meals, and late-night eating can sometimes upset the digestive system. With a few simple habits, you can protect your stomach and fast more comfortably throughout the holy month.

Why Digestive Problems Increase During Ramadan

Health experts say stomach issues like gastritis, acidity, and ulcers can be caused by bacterial infections, smoking, long-term use of painkillers, overeating, and frequent intake of spicy or fatty foods. Common symptoms include stomach pain, heartburn, bloating, acidity, and a burning feeling in the upper abdomen. These problems often worsen when the stomach stays empty for many hours, which is common during fasting.

Assess Your Health Before Fasting

Doctors advise people with stomach problems to judge the severity of their condition before fasting. If symptoms are severe or uncontrolled, it is important to consult a doctor first. Skipping suhoor should be avoided, as it increases stomach acidity during the day.

A light but healthy suhoor is recommended. Avoid tea, coffee, and other caffeinated drinks, as they can irritate the stomach lining and cause dehydration.

Break Your Fast Gently

Breaking the fast slowly helps reduce acidity. Dates and water are a traditional and gentle way to begin iftar. Light soups or mild fruit drinks can also prepare the stomach before a full meal.

A balanced iftar should include carbohydrates, proteins, vegetables, and fruits. Fried, very spicy, salty, and sugary foods should be limited, as they can worsen gastric discomfort.

Foods to Avoid

Fatty and fried foods, spicy dishes, and sour items like lemons, limes, and grapefruit may trigger symptoms in sensitive people. Processed and high-sugar foods can also irritate the stomach.

Smoking greatly increases stomach inflammation and ulcers. Doctors say Ramadan is a good time to quit smoking and improve overall health.

Choose Stomach-Friendly Foods

Easily digestible foods such as dates, bananas, and almonds are gentle on the stomach and provide energy. Instead of fried foods, choose steamed, boiled, or baked meals.

Stay Hydrated and Take Medicines Properly

Drinking enough water between iftar and bedtime is essential. Proper hydration helps prevent acidity and digestive discomfort.

Doctors usually recommend taking prescribed stomach medicines at suhoor or as advised, so the stomach remains protected during fasting hours.

Final Advice

Health specialists say that with balanced meals, enough water, regular suhoor, and proper medical guidance, most people with mild stomach issues can fast safely. Careful eating habits can help you enjoy Ramadan 2026 with better digestive health and peace of mind.