Doha, Qatar: Gut health plays a vital role in overall wellbeing, particularly during the holy month of Ramadan when dietary patterns and meal timings change significantly. By offering practical advice on diet and lifestyle, expert insights aim to help people maintain healthy gut function during the holy month and throughout the year.
A gastroenterology and hepatology specialist at Hamad Medical Corporation, Dr. Haidar Barjas told The Peninsula that many widely held beliefs about digestive health including the assumed safety of herbal medicines and the idea that gluten is harmful to everyone can be misleading, while simple, balanced lifestyle choices remain key to protecting digestive and liver health.
“Some of the biggest myths we encounter are surprisingly persistent,” said Dr. Barjas. “Many people think herbal medicines are always safe, but certain herbs can actually cause severe liver injury, sometimes requiring hospitalisation.”
Gluten, often viewed as harmful, is another common misconception. “Gluten is just a protein,” Dr. Barjas said. “If you don’t have celiac disease or a gluten allergy, it shouldn’t cause any gut problems.” Detox diets are also largely unnecessary, he adds. “You don’t need expensive cleanses or detox programs. Your liver and kidneys are naturally equipped to remove toxins every day.”
In Qatar, the most frequently observed digestive issues include irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), functional dyspepsia, and fatty liver disease. Diet plays a crucial role in these conditions.
“Excessive consumption of fried and processed foods, ultra-processed items, and refined sugar can harm your gut and liver,” Dr. Barjas said. “It can slow digestion, cause acid reflux and bloating, and increase the risk of fatty liver.”
Certain symptoms, he stresses, should never be ignored. Patients experiencing vomiting, especially with black blood or bloody stools, unexplained weight loss, yellowing of the eyes or skin, or very dark urine and pale stools, should seek medical attention promptly.
Those with persistent acidity, bloating, or stomach pain need urgent care if they have difficulty swallowing, are vomiting blood, or are losing weight without explanation.
People with diabetes and obesity are particularly vulnerable to MASLD, commonly known as fatty liver disease. Dr. Barjas emphasises that controlling blood sugar, losing weight, maintaining regular medical check-ups, and following an active lifestyle can help protect the liver.
Maintaining gut health also relies on lifestyle habits. Regular physical activity, around 150 to 300 minutes per week combined with a healthy, balanced diet can improve digestion, reduce bloating, and support overall wellness.
For Ramadan, Dr. Barjas offers practical guidance to prevent acidity and indigestion. Breaking the fast slowly with a few dates and water, followed by prayers, sets the stage for a main meal that ideally consists of half a plate of salad with olive oil, a quarter protein, and a quarter carbohydrates.
He advises against lying down immediately after eating, suggesting a short walk instead to aid digestion. Excessive caffeine should be limited, hydration maintained, and sugary foods consumed sparingly.
“Digestive health is about balance and awareness,” Dr. Barjas said. “With the right habits, you can enjoy your meals, stay healthy, and make the most of Ramadan without upsetting your gut.”
