For millions of Muslims around the world, fasting during Ramadan is a deeply spiritual practice. However, for those suffering from stomach ulcers, prolonged fasting can sometimes lead to discomfort and health complications. The good news is that with mindful dietary choices, fasting can still be manageable and beneficial. By avoiding spicy, acidic, and processed foods while opting for nourishing, slow-digesting meals, ulcer sufferers can reduce symptoms and maintain their well-being throughout the holy month. This guide offers essential dietary recommendations to help you fast comfortably while keeping your digestive health in check.

An open peptic ulcer is a lesion in the upper digestive tract. Stomach or gastric ulcers form when the thick mucus layer that protects the stomach from digestive juices breaks down, resulting the stomach lining tissues being eroded by digestive acids. The most common symptom is a burning or aching sensation between the chest and the belly button. It usually lasts from a few minutes to many hours when your stomach is empty.

Symptoms of stomach ulcers include bloating, burping, acid reflux, and heartburn (burning sensation in the chest). Discomfort decreases with food and drink. So, throughout Ramadan, try to keep the following diet recommendations to avoid discomfort.

What to avoid

Fried, greasy, and acidic meals and fruits (citrus fruits such as lemons, limes, grapefruits, and oranges).

Spicy meals and canned/processed foods, particularly tomato-based products. Many processed foods include a high concentration of chemicals, including preservatives, which may aggravate gastritis.

Foods high in sugar and processed carbs.

Overeating at the break of fast, or during sehri.

Caffeine-containing beverages such as tea, coffee, sodas, etc. These cause you to flow more urine, which contains vital mineral salts that your body requires during the long day of fasting.

Smoking has been linked to gastritis and peptic ulcer disease. Ramadan is an excellent time to quit smoking.

Consider making these dietary changes

Consuming carbohydrates or slow-digesting food at sehri so that the food lasts longer, making you less hungry and more active for the rest of the day.

Breaking your fast with dates, which are high in sugar, fibre, carbs, potassium, and magnesium.

Eating oven-grilled dishes instead of fried or fatty ones.

Adding bananas to your Ramadan diet, as they are high in carbs, potassium, and magnesium. 

Protein and fibre are abundant in almonds. A nutritious drink made with ground almonds and milk is a must during iftar.

Eating in moderation and smaller portions, and break the fast as soon as possible.

Not missing your prescribed medications at sehri while fasting.

Drinking as much water, non-acidic fruit juices, and potassium-containing liquids as possible between dusk and dawn, so that your body can regulate fluid levels for the next day.

The article has been revised to include more relevant information and updates.