Stop! 6 Popular Drinks That Are Secretly Ruining Your Iftar

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Don’t Break Your Fast with These 6 Drinks: Here’s Why

After a long day of fasting, it is natural to crave something cold and refreshing. However, health experts warn that many popular drinks consumed during Iftar (breaking of the fast) can actually have a negative impact on your health, especially when consumed on an empty stomach.

Drinks to Avoid Immediately When Breaking Your Fast

Many traditional Iftar drinks are high in sugar or acidity. While they quench your thirst instantly, frequent consumption can lead to various health issues. Here are the drinks you should be cautious of:

1. Tea

Similar to coffee, tea is not recommended as the first thing you drink when breaking your fast. Its acidic nature and caffeine content can trigger a spike in stomach acid or cause heartburn (dyspepsia) when the stomach is empty.

2. Excessive Plain Water

Wait—water is healthy, right? The issue here is quantity. Drinking too much water all at once immediately upon breaking your fast can lead to bloating or a feeling of "fullness" (begah) that prevents you from eating a nutritious meal. It is best to drink moderate amounts in intervals.

3. Coffee

Coffee is highly acidic and can irritate the stomach lining if consumed before eating. Furthermore, coffee is a diuretic, meaning it encourages urination. Instead of rehydrating your body after a day of fasting, coffee might cause you to lose even more fluids.

4. Full Cream Milk

While nutrient-dense, full-cream milk has a high fat content. Consuming heavy fats on an empty stomach can slow down digestion and cause discomfort. Experts suggest waiting until after you have eaten a light meal before enjoying a glass of milk.

5. Carbonated Drinks (Soda)

Sodas are often high in carbonation (gas), which leads to immediate bloating. They are also highly acidic and loaded with sugar. Regular consumption can cause tooth decay, bad breath, and dangerous spikes in blood sugar levels—especially for those with pre-diabetes or diabetes.

6. Ice Cream

The extreme cold temperature of ice cream can "shock" your digestive system after it has been inactive all day. This often results in stomach cramps, bloating, and indigestion.