Coffee during Ramadan: The best time to drink it and avoid stomach upset
With the arrival of the holy month, questions about healthy eating habits resurface, and coffee tops the list of concerns for those fasting, given its significant place in daily life and social traditions. In this context, a doctor at Jeddah University warned those fasting against unhealthy habits related to caffeine consumption, emphasizing the need to regulate timing and quantity to avoid health problems.
The place of coffee in heritage and the challenges of fasting
It's impossible to discuss the Ramadan table in the Kingdom and the Arab region without mentioning coffee. It's not merely a stimulant; it's a symbol of generosity and hospitality, and an integral part of cultural identity. Historically, coffee has been associated with the gatherings and family get-togethers that abound during Ramadan, making abstaining from it or reducing its consumption a significant challenge for many. However, experts emphasize that adhering to this tradition shouldn't come at the expense of overall health, especially given the physiological changes the body undergoes as a result of the long fasting hours.
Avoid sudden stomach shock
Dr. Abdullah Fawaz, a general practitioner at the University of Jeddah's Medical Services Department, explained that consuming caffeinated beverages immediately after the Maghrib prayer is one of the most dangerous habits. He emphasized that the stomach is at its most sensitive after hours of fasting, and its sudden influx of concentrated caffeine can cause a "shock" to the digestive system, leading to increased acid secretion and intestinal irritation.
Dr. Fawaz recommended delaying the first cup of coffee until at least an hour after breakfast. This delay allows the body to absorb fluids and sugars from dates, water, and soup, preparing the stomach to receive caffeine without adverse effects.
The effect of coffee during Ramadan on biological balance
From a medical perspective, the effects of coffee during Ramadan to the body's water balance. Caffeine is a diuretic, and excessive consumption during the short hours of Iftar (breaking the fast) can accelerate the loss of fluids that the body desperately needs to replenish what it lost during the day. This increases the likelihood of dehydration, especially if the holy month coincides with hot weather.
Regarding safe amounts, the doctor indicated that the safe limit for adults is 400 milligrams per day, which is roughly equivalent to three to five cups of Saudi coffee, or three cups of drip coffee. He emphasized the need to halve this amount for pregnant women to ensure their safety and the safety of their unborn children.
Dealing with withdrawal symptoms and sleep disturbances
Many people experience severe headaches and tension during the first few days of Ramadan, which Dr. Fawaz explained as caffeine withdrawal symptoms resulting from the sudden cessation. To avoid this, he advises gradually reducing caffeine intake before Ramadan or delaying the first dose, as previously mentioned.
He also warned of caffeine's impact on sleep quality, advising against drinking coffee six hours before bedtime to avoid insomnia, which negatively affects mental and physical performance the following day. He concluded his advice by emphasizing the importance of drinking plenty of water between Iftar (breaking the fast) and Suhoor (pre-dawn meal) to achieve a healthy balance that allows you to enjoy coffee without the negative effects.
