People with diabetes need to be very careful during Ramadan in order to maintain good glycemic control. Here are some tips for those who are fasting during this period.
During the fasting month of Ramadan, Muslims all over the world are fasting during daylight hours, eating two meals a day – Sehri or Suhoor (at pre-dawn) and Iftar (at sunset).
For people with diabetes taking insulin or on some medication, the many hours without food and water puts them at risk of hypoglycaemia and dehydration. There is also the risk of hyperglycaemia from the rich food that is traditionally eaten at Iftar. Do remember that the Qur’an exempts the sick from fasting. If your doctor advises against your fasting, speak to your Imam about your situation.
If you have diabetes and have decided to fast, keep the following points in mind:
• Speak to your doctor or diabetologist about adjusting your insulin dose or diabetes medication for this month, if required.
• Get a glucometer (if you don’t have one) and check your blood sugar level more frequently every day than usual. If while fasting, your blood sugar level falls to <60 mg/dl, you will need to break your fast and treat your low blood sugar immediately. Conversely, break your fast if your blood sugar exceeds 300 mg/dl. Consult a doctor.
Related reading: How to choose the right glucometer
• At Sehri, eat complex carbohydrates such as wholegrain bread, chapatti, dal, vegetables and fruit. These will release energy slowly into the blood stream. Eat as close to daybreak as possible. Drink lots of water.
• At Iftar, stay away from rich foods high in saturated fats like heavy meat dishes and sweet dishes like rice puddings. Eat healthily and in moderation to prevent hyperglycaemia. Increase your intake of complex carbs and low glycaemic index (GI) foods. Drink lots of water.
• Always carry a sweet snack or drink with you in case you feel hypoglycaemic.
• Do not take on strenuous physical activity.
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How To Avoid Health Hazards of Fasting
Can I Exercise During Ramadan Fasting?
Sources:
http://care.diabetesjournals.org/content/28/9/2305.full
