Kapanlagi.com - Fasting is not just about abstaining from hunger and thirst, but also an opportunity to improve overall health, including our digestive system. However, unfortunately, improper habits during iftar and sahur can backfire on the stomach and even trigger a recurrence of GERD (Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease).
Internal medicine specialist, Dr. Decsa Medika Hertanto, Sp.PD, revealed that there are three common mistakes often made while fasting. These mistakes can worsen stomach conditions and should be avoided to ensure our fast remains healthy and beneficial.
Let’s take a closer look at the summary from Kapanlagi.com below, so that our fasting practice is not only spiritually valuable but also supports our physical health!
1. Binge Eating at Iftar
After a day of fasting, many people are tempted to indulge in large portions of food when breaking their fast. However, this habit can be risky for stomach health, as it can cause the stomach to suddenly stretch.
Doctor Decsa, in a video on his Instagram account (@dokterdecsa), warns that eating quickly and excessively can increase stomach acid.
Not only that, the consumption of fatty, spicy, or acidic foods can also worsen stomach conditions and trigger GERD.
Therefore, it is recommended to break the fast slowly, starting with light snacks before enjoying heavier main dishes.
2. Breaking Fast or Suhoor with Smoking
Smoking on an empty stomach is a very unhealthy habit and can trigger acid reflux or GERD. "It is very clear, smoking is one of the contributing factors to GERD, especially when the stomach is empty," explains Dr. Decsa.
Now, the month of Ramadan can be the perfect time to reduce or even quit this smoking habit. Let’s take advantage of this blessed time for our health!
3. Lying Down Immediately After Eating
After enjoying a delicious meal, the habit of lying down right away might seem tempting, but did you know that this can pose risks to your stomach health?
Dr. Decsa reminds us that lying down after eating can trigger stomach acid to rise into the esophagus, potentially causing GERD symptoms.
As a healthier alternative, try to take a light walk for 5-10 minutes after breaking your fast. In addition to helping your digestive system function better, this activity also makes your fasting experience more comfortable.
So, out of the three common mistakes made during fasting, which ones do you often do? Let's avoid these bad habits for optimal stomach health!
(kpl/rao)
Disclaimer: This translation from Bahasa Indonesia to English has been generated by Artificial Intelligence.