As Muslims prepare to mark the end of Ramadan with the Eid-el-Fitr celebration tomorrow, nutritionists have advised against jumping into heavy meals immediately after a month-long fast, warning that certain foods commonly served during Eid could trigger digestive issues and long-term health problems.
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The experts said while it’s normal for people to look forward to delicacies like puff puff, samosas, and sugary drinks, eating such foods too soon after fasting can shock the digestive system and lead to bloating, fatigue, acid reflux, and sugar crashes.
Speaking with Guardian Life, Clinical Nutritionist, Odukoya Fiyintoluwa, said the body undergoes metabolic adjustments during Ramadan and must be handled with care when transitioning back to normal meals.
“After 29 days of fasting, the digestive system is in a semi-rested state,” he explained. “Jumping straight into heavy, greasy meals can be a shock to the system. Deep-fried foods like puff puff, samosas or akara can cause bloating, acid reflux and sluggish digestion.”
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He added that the body produces less bile and digestive enzymes during the fasting period, making it harder to digest fatty foods first thing in the morning.
“Oily meals require more effort to break down, and that’s why many people feel tired and uncomfortable after eating them, especially on Eid morning when the stomach is still adjusting,” she said.
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Also speaking, another Clinical Nutritionist, Ibude Jayne, noted that many Nigerians overindulge in processed sugary foods and drinks during Eid, which can negatively affect their blood sugar levels after weeks of reduced food intake.
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“Eid is a time of joy and indulgence, but going overboard with sugary treats can throw your blood sugar levels off balance,” she warned.
“It can also lead to sugar crashes, fatigue and bloating. People don’t realise their bodies are more sensitive after fasting, so moderation is very important.”
Jayne advised that Muslims be cautious about consuming small chops, fizzy drinks, and other white flour-based snacks immediately after breaking their fast.
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According to her, these highly processed items do more harm than good, especially when consumed in large quantities.
“Processed snacks like puff puff and soda can cause inflammation, digestive discomfort and even dehydration,” she added. “People should pair any sweets they eat with water or high-fibre foods to slow down sugar absorption and ease digestion.”
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On healthy alternatives to common Eid treats, both nutritionists recommended options that are festive but gentler on the stomach. Jayne suggested fresh fruit platters with watermelon, dates, or pineapple, and urged celebrants to consider grilled meats, roasted nuts or baked pastries instead of deep-fried items.
“You can even try homemade zobo or tigernut drinks in place of sodas,” she said. “They still feel celebratory but won’t weigh you down or upset your digestive system.”
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Odukoya also noted the importance of portion control, saying many Nigerians tend to overeat during Eid due to multiple visits to family and friends.
“After a month of disciplined eating, overeating can lead to bloating and discomfort,” he said. “Start with light foods like fruits or yoghurt, eat slowly and use smaller plates to manage your portion sizes.”
He advised celebrants to drink water frequently, chew their food properly and listen to their body’s signals. “It’s not about eating everything at once, it’s about enjoying the celebration without feeling sick afterwards,” he added.
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The clinical nutritionists urged Nigerians to celebrate responsibly and remember that the joy of Eid isn’t just about the food, but about fellowship, reflection and gratitude.
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