UNS – Universitas Sebelas Maret Hospital (UNS Hospital) hosted a special edition of Healthy Dialogue to celebrate Ramadhan 2025. UNS hospital streamed the session, titled “Comfortable Fasting, Safe Stomach,” live on its YouTube channel on Thursday (27/2/2025). This event aimed to educate the public on how to fast safely while managing gastritis and other digestive disorders.
dr. Frieska Dyanneza, M.P.H., hosted the session and introduced dr. Coana Sukmagautama, Sp.PD., M.Kes., FINASIM. dr. Coana specializes in internal medicine and gastrointestinal endoscopy at UNS Hospital. As Ramadhan approaches, many Muslims with gastric issues question whether fasting benefits or harms them. Some believe fasting improves digestion, while others worry it worsens stomach conditions.
Understanding Gastric Disorders and Their Causes
dr. Coana explained that various factors, including food choices, stress, and bacterial infections, can cause gastric problems. Gastritis falls into two main types. Organic gastritis occurs when ulcers, erosions, or lesions develop in the stomach lining, causing pain and discomfort. Functional gastric disorder happens when the stomach looks normal but struggles with motility, leading to bloating and fullness. Some individuals experience both conditions together, which doctors call mixed gastritis.
Fasting may offer relief for those with functional gastric disorders, as it allows the stomach to rest and improves motility. However, those with ulcers or lesions require extra caution. Consulting a doctor before fasting is essential, as the severity of the condition varies for each individual.
Practical Tips for Safe Fasting with Gastritis
Individuals with functional gastric disorders can manage fasting with proper preparation. dr. Coana emphasized that mental readiness plays a crucial role. Setting a strong intention helps individuals adjust psychologically. A well-planned suhoor (pre-dawn meal) is essential for a smooth fasting experience. People should eat in a relaxed manner instead of delaying suhoor until the last minute. They should choose foods that are easy to digest. Spicy and acidic foods, along with coconut milk dishes, can trigger excess stomach acid. Those taking gastric medication should consume it during suhoor as their doctor prescribes.
When it comes to iftar (breaking the fast), food choices can be more flexible. However, moderation remains key to preventing gastric discomfort. Eating too quickly or consuming excessive portions may put unnecessary strain on the digestive system. Another important consideration is avoiding the habit of lying down immediately after suhoor or iftar. Since food remains in the stomach for about two to four hours, lying down too soon can cause acid reflux and increase discomfort. Engaging in light physical activity, such as walking, after suhoor can help reduce stress. Stress is a significant contributor to worsening gastritis.
Pain tolerance differs among individuals. Some can manage mild discomfort by drinking warm water or applying a warm compress. Severe pain that disrupts daily activities or causes symptoms like vomiting blood requires immediate action. People should stop fasting and seek medical advice in such cases.
Fasting and Gastric Health: Key Takeaways
Fasting does not have to be a limitation for individuals with gastric disorders. Those with functional gastric issues may benefit from fasting. Individuals with ulcers or severe digestive conditions should get a medical assessment before fasting. Proper dietary habits, good sleep management, and stress reduction can minimize discomfort. These practices help create a more fulfilling fasting experience.
UNS Hospital launched this educational initiative to support the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) number 3. This goal promotes good health and well-being. The hospital provides practical health information to help the public observe their religion while maintaining good health.
Humas UNS
