Hina Khan, who is fasting during Ramadan, suggests starting sehri with ‘one Ajwa date to avoid acidity’; experts weigh in

Starting your sehri with a variety of dates called Ajwa can be a great way to ease into your fast, but “it’s not a magic fix for acidity”, asserted Kanikka Malhotra, consultant dietician and certified diabetes educator.

“While dates help by neutralising stomach acid, providing fibre for digestion, and even protecting the stomach lining, they work best when part of a well-balanced meal,” said Malhotra.

Dr Dilip Gude, senior consultant physician, Yashoda Hospitals, Hyderabad, said that after about 16 hours or more of fasting with not even a drop of water/hydration, the human body tends to go into a fight/flight mode. “Acidity kicks in with the stomach producing lots of acid. The lower esophageal sphincter tone also drops, which adds to the reflux. Some overweight people tend to have hiatus hernia, which worsens acidity. As such, it is important to take care of acidity. While dates can help with the impending hypoglycemia, the best way to combat acidity is to drink buttermilk that neutralises the pent up acid in the stomach,” said Dr Gude.

To keep acidity at bay, focus on complex carbs like whole grains, good protein sources like eggs, tofu, or yogurt (if it suits you), and healthy fats from nuts or seeds, suggested Malhotra.

Soya, lettuce, broccoli, celery, and cheese may also help, said Dr Gude. “In those with pre-existing esophagitis with gastric ulcers with/without duodenal ulcers, it is imperative to be on acid suppression therapies like proton pump inhibitors like omeprazole, pantoprazole, etc. Also, sucralfate with oxetacaine may help,” said Dr Gude.

Hina Khan shared an Instagram Story (Photo: Hina Khan/Instagram Stories)

Avoid spicy, oily foods, carbonated drinks, and too much caffeine, as these can trigger acid reflux, Malhotra added. “And don’t forget to stay hydrated — sip water steadily instead of gulping it all at once. Eating slowly and mindfully also makes a difference. A holistic Sehri will keep you comfortable and energised throughout your fast, not just one date,” said Malhotra.

Dr Gude said it’s always advisable to “eat an easily digestible alkaline diet” with more emphasis on the above-mentioned foods.

DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.