RAMADAN and DIABETES

Fasting during the month of Ramadan can be dangerous if you have diabetesasitcan cause some serious health problems. It can precipitate dramatic changes in meal schedules, fluid intake, sleep patterns and circadian rhythms. This leads to increase in glucose variability and therefore increased risk of both hypoglycemia (low sugar) and hyperglycemia (high sugar).

Ramadan is a very important time of year for Muslims around the world and fasting during Ramadan is considered to be one of the five pillars of Islam. Despite being exempted, many people with diabetes, especially pregnant women, elderly people, still participate in fasting during Ramadan. But it is important to ensurethatpeoplewhoare living with diabetes consult their doctor before they fast.

Risks of fasting during Ramadan for people with diabetes -

Fasting during the month of Ramadan can be dangerous if you have diabetesasitcan cause some serious health problems. It can precipitate dramatic changes in meal schedules, fluid intake, sleep patterns and circadian rhythms. This leads to increase in glucose variability and therefore increased risk of both hypoglycemia (low sugar) and hyperglycemia (high sugar). It can also lead to dehydration, kidney problems, heart disorders, strokes, etc.

Benefits of fasting during Ramadan for people with diabetes -

Fasting during Ramadan may also provide many benefits. Itcanprovideanopportunity for a better lifestyle, weight loss and smokingcessation.Italsoleadstoimprovementin fatty liver disease, blood pressure and blood cholesterol levels.Itleadstoimprovement in self-sufficiency, self-acceptance, social relations and personal growth.

Diet and fluid plan -

Suhoor (Predawn meal) - It’s important not to skip the suhoor meal, which is justbefore dawn. Itshouldbetakenaslateaspossible.Youcanconsumehighfiberstarchy foods like oats or brown rice.Lentils (dal) and beans are good sources of protein and are also high in fiber. They can bepairedwithfruitsandvegetablesasthiswillhelpyou to manage your blood sugar levels while you are fasting. Before starting the day’sfast, you should drink enough water and sugar-free fluids to avoid dehydration during theday.

Iftar meal (breaking of fast) - Traditionally the fast is to be broken with dates. But diabetic patients should limit the number of dates to one orshouldbreakthefastwitha glass of water. Try to rehydrate with sugar free fluids. Water is the best option. Avoid sugary fizzy drinks, canned juices, fruit juices, tea, coffee as these willraiseyourblood sugar and makeyoufeelthirstier and more dehydrated.Milkdrinkssuchaslassiorlaban are a good source of protein and calcium, but should be taken without sugar or honey.

Avoid sweets such as baklava, barfi or rasmalai as they are very high in fat and sugar. Try to avoid fried and oily foods like samosa, pakora, as eating them could lead to unintentional weight gain. These foods can also affect your heart as they tend to increase your blood cholesterol and blood pressure above healthy levels.