Guide For Healthy Ramadan

Get rid of constipation
Constipation is one of the most common problems encountered during the month of Ramadan. Constipation for long days can cause piles (haemorrhoids), fissures (painful cracks in the anal canal) and indigestion with a bloated feeling. Eating too many refined carbohydrates, drinking too little water and not eating enough fibre are the causes behind this. Be active, eat more fibre and complex carbohydrates, drink more water, use bran for baking, and use brown flour when making bread will help to keep your bowel motions regular. Include lots of fruit and vegetables in your diet and increase the fiber content of your food. Taking Isabgol is effective but has a delayed effect. If the problem persists, a short course of laxatives may help.
Ways to ease heartburn

Increased acid levels in the empty stomach in Ramadan aggravate the above conditions. It presents itself as a burning feeling in the stomach area under the ribs and can extend up to the throat. Spicy foods, especially sauces, can cause this, as well as coffee, carbonated drinks, and fatty and fried foods worsen these conditions. In order to get rid of it, avoid all the above foods. Do not overeat. Have a few small meals instead of one big meal; eat a little after iftar and another snack after the tarawih prayer for example. Medications such as antacids, antihistamines or proton pump inhibitors are available to control acid levels in the stomach. People with proven peptic ulcers and hiatus hernia should consult their doctor well before Ramadan.
Bad breath and dental care
During fasting, it is not unexpected that the mouth becomes dry. This naturally results in malodor. Poor oral hygiene care will indeed make it even worse. A practical way of overcoming it is to ensure patients, even during fasting, to still brush their teeth and floss as usual to keep the mouth feeling fresh and clean. Mouthrinsing is also permissible as long as patients don't overdo it! Avoid alcohol-based mouthwash as it will dry out the mouth. Drinking plenty of water and fruits during the night or at sahur/sehri can help to keep the body stay hydrated and healthy. It is also worthy to examine the whole mouth for any dental or oral manifestations that may be contributing to the malodor such like dental caries, infection and/or discharges.