Khaberni - Patients with irritable bowel syndrome face special challenges during the holy month of Ramadan due to changes in meal times, overeating certain foods, and staying up late, which may increase symptoms of bloating, gas, cramps, diarrhea, or constipation. However, with a carefully considered diet and simple tips, most can fast safely and with relative comfort.
According to recommendations from gastroenterologists and nutritionists, there is a set of tips for a recommended healthy and safe diet
The Best Diet for Colon Patients in Ramadan
- Focus on a low-FODMAP diet as much as possible, with gradual adjustment based on the body's response.
- Divide meals into small, frequent amounts instead of one large meal.
- Start slowly at iftar to give the stomach a chance to adapt after the long hours of fasting.
- Drink adequate amounts of water (preferably 2-3 liters spread between iftar and suhoor) at spaced intervals.
Colon-friendly Foods
At iftar, it's advisable to eat 1 to 3 dates along with a cup of water or a light warm vegetable soup (lentils or cooked vegetables), light protein (grilled fish, boiled or grilled chicken, boiled egg), easy carbohydrates (white rice, boiled potatoes, white bread or toast, oats in moderate amounts), and cooked vegetables (zucchini, carrots, potatoes).
For suhoor, it is recommended to consume lactose-free or low-fat Greek yogurt, cottage cheese or low-salt white cheese, oats with banana or strawberry, boiled eggs and toasted bread.
It is also preferable to drink calming beverages such as: mint, anise, caraway, fennel, light ginger, chamomile to help soothe cramps and bloating.
Prohibited items that should be avoided or reduced significantly
- Fatty and fried foods (sambousek, fried kofta, fried potatoes, béchamel pasta).
- Heavy legumes (beans, chickpeas, lentils in large quantities, ful medames, falafel, koshari).
- Gas-producing vegetables (raw onions, raw garlic, cabbage, cauliflower, broccoli, green beans).
- Regular dairy products (full-fat milk, aged cheese, ice cream) – replace with lactose-free.
- Soft drinks, processed juices, excessive coffee, and tea (caffeine irritates the colon).
- Sweet desserts rich in sugar or fat (kunafa, basbousa, ice cream, chocolate).
- Spicy spices, vinegar, excessive lemon, pickles.
- Nuts in large quantities (especially pistachios and cashews).
General Tips to Reduce Symptoms in Ramadan
- Chew your food well and slowly.
- Do not overeat immediately after iftar; wait 30 - 60 minutes then have the main meal.
- Engage in light walking after iftar (helps regulate bowel movement).
- Ensure sufficient sleep (at least 7 hours) and minimize staying up late.
- Avoid stress as much as possible (stress exacerbates symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome).
