Effects of Ramadan Fasting on Common Upper Gastrointestinal Disorder; A Review of the Literature

Introduction: Ramadan is the ninth month of Muslim s calendar during which Muslims fast. Ramadan lasts 29-30 days based on the visual sightings of the crescent moon. Fasting during Ramadan has significant health effects. The present study aimed at reviewing the literature of the impact of Ramadan fasting on upper gastroinal disorders. Methods: MEDLINE and Google Scholar were searched by using (( Ramadan R fasting )) AND ( Upper Gastrointestinal Tract OR GAstrointestinal Diseases OR Dyspepsia OR Gastroesophageal Reflux OR Peptic Ulcer OR Gastrointestinal Hemorrhage )) as Keywords in the title and abstract. Relevant, non-duplicate full aritten in English were reviwed. Results: Gastric acid and pepsin secreion increase during Ramadan fasting, probably associated with dyapeptic symptoms. Regarding peptic ulcer freqency, results are inconsistent. However, peptic ulcer complications such as gastrointestinal bleeding and peptic ulcer perforation increase during Ramadan fasting. Conclusion: Fasting during Ramadan seems to be beneficial for healthy individuals, but in people with gastrointestinal disorders, it might be harmful as it increases the risk of complications. Therefore, taking medical advice befare Ramadan fasting is highly recommended to people suffering from gastrointestinal symptoms.

کلیدواژه ها:

Dyspepsia ، Gastroeosophagial reflux ، Gastrointestinal hemorrhage ، Peptic ulcer ، Ramadan Fasting ، Upper gastrointestinal diseases