How can I avoid heartburn after iftar?

Detailed answer

Heartburn after iftar is very common. After a long day without food, it is tempting to eat a large, rich meal quickly, and that is exactly what tends to trigger acid reflux. A few changes to how and what you eat usually make a big difference.

Break the fast gently

Follow the sunnah of breaking your fast with a few dates and water, then pause for the Maghrib prayer before your main meal. This gives your stomach time to adjust. The Prophet (peace be upon him) also taught moderation in eating: "The son of Adam fills no vessel worse than his stomach" (Tirmidhi), and advised leaving a third for food, a third for drink and a third for breathing.

What to eat and avoid

• Cut down on fried foods such as samosas and fried pastries, very fatty or creamy dishes, and heavy sweets.
• Go easy on spicy food, tomato-based sauces, citrus, chocolate, coffee, strong tea and fizzy drinks, which commonly trigger heartburn.
• Choose soups, grilled or baked meat and fish, rice, vegetables, salads and yoghurt. See a healthy iftar.

How to eat

• Eat slowly and chew well.
• Have smaller portions. You can eat a second light meal later in the evening rather than one huge meal.
• Drink water between meals rather than large amounts with your food.

After eating

• Do not lie down for two to three hours after a meal. A gentle walk, or standing in Taraweeh, is better than resting on the sofa.
• If heartburn troubles you at night, raise the head of your bed a little.
• Keep suhoor light, and if you go back to sleep after Fajr, leave some time after eating first.

When to see a doctor

If you have heartburn most days, or need antacids often, see your doctor or pharmacist. They may suggest a medicine you can take at iftar or suhoor. Seek urgent help for chest pain that spreads to the arm or jaw, difficulty swallowing or vomiting blood, as these may be signs of something more serious.

For more ideas, see breaking the fast at sunset and delaying suhoor and our Ramadan articles.