With many of our customers fasting during the period of Ramadan, we’ve noticed a trend – our Natural Moves, Gastronic Dr, Digestion Tonic and Digest Assist flying off the shelves. These three remedies make perfect sense – as they are all fabulous ways of helping the digestive system, especially when eating times are erratic.

They can be taken before sunrise to support the digestive system during the day, and then again at night to regulate the digestive system before morning.

Why do I have digestive problems when I fast?

The digestive tract is like a long tube, with food entering at one end and exiting at the other end. When the body goes into fast, no food is ingested for long periods of time. This means that the action of peristalsis (the natural 'squeezing' action of the bowels and intestines) is slowed. If one imagines squeezing a long tube hand over hand, fist over fist, the digestive system needs this continuous movement to move waste products along. If food is not eaten, then it follows that waste products are not excreted. Bloating can also occur once food is ingested again after a day spent without food. This happens because the stomach has emptied and 'shrunk' during the hours of no food, so when food is introduced, the stomach has to quickly expand to accommodate the food plus excess gasses that are produced during digestion. This can lead to stomach cramps, bloating and flatulence.

Handy tips for easy Digestion during the month of Ramadan:

• Divide the 'Iftar' into two meals – this will be easier on the stomach.
• Try not to overeat at the pre-dawn meal or 'Suhoor'
• Eat slowly and chew food well, and do not drink with the meal, but rather afterwards
• After 'Iftar' drink water or herbal teas to help digestion
• Do not sleep directly after 'Iftar' as this may cause acid reflux and heartburn from lying down
• Eat complex carbohydrates and Haleem (an excellent source of protein) as both will help keep you full while slowly digesting. Dates are excellent source of fibre to help keep you regular and discourage constipation
• Use bran or brown flour when making roti – this will help to discourage constipation

Also, the knee joints may take great strain when extra salah are performed. This may result in stiffness, swelling or discomfort. Joint Ease Plus may be taken after sunset and before sunrise to help support the joints during this time. Exercises to strengthen the legs before Ramadan is also a good idea – as this can also help to allow you to perform salah with ease.

Remember: If you have a specific medical condition, you should always consult with your own personal doctor or healthcare provider for appropriate advice concerning your specific health needs and care during Ramadan.