Heres' why diabetics should consult a doctor regularly during Ramadan

People with diabetes should keep these tips in mind for a safe and healthy Ramadan.

Written By: Bhavyajyoti Chilukoti | Published : June 20, 2016 4:37 PM IST

It goes without saying that people living with diabetes must be extra cautious while observing fasts during Ramadan, as fasting for long hours causes drastic changes in the blood glucose level. According to Dr Sanjay Kalra, Consultant Endocrinologist, Bharti Hospital Karnal& Vice President, South Asian Federation of Endocrine Societies, it is important to raise awareness about the health implications of long hours of fasting, especially for patients living with Type 1 diabetes. Also, essential precautions must be taken while fasting for those living with Type 2 diabetes. The long gaps between meals may lead to metabolic changes in the body, which can pose serious health problems for diabetes patients. The initial days of the fasting period are particularly challenging, but it can be managed well with proper monitoring of insulin levels.

Dr Sanjay Kalra says, 'The first and foremost advice that I would like to give to all those living with diabetes is that they should be in regular touch with their treating doctor during the period of Ramadan. The intermittent fasting, long gap and significant nutritional changes can cause fluctuation in sugar level and patients can face hypoglycemia, the sudden fall in blood sugar level which leads to symptoms such as unconsciousness and seizures. Also, excess intake of foods while breaking the fast can cause hyperglycemia or a sudden increase in blood sugar, leading to increased fatigue, thirst, headache and blurry vision. In most cases, patients with Type 1 diabetes are seen to be at a higher risk of hypoglycemia. Also, do not forget that feasting is also an integral aspect of Ramadan and people with diabetes should be extra cautious regarding the diet regimen that they follow during these days.' If you are fasting for Ramadan, manage your diabetes with these tips.

Here are few tips to keep in the mind while breaking fast

While breaking the day-long fast, care must be taken so as to keep the body well hydrated but refrain from drinking sugar-laced and caffeinated beverages.
Fruits are preferred over juices as they are sources of natural sugar and also provide an excess amount of fibre and nutrients, unlike fruit juices, which are devoid of fibre and nutrients.
At Sehri, one should eat food in small quantities, and it should include more proteins and less carbohydrate with lots of fruits, whole grain, lentils, whole grain bread, low sugar cereals and beans.Here are few more tips to eat healthy during Sehri.
Avoid gorging on sweets, fried snacks and foods high in sugar or salt content as it might spike your blood glucose or salt level.
It is advisable to include food items rich in protein like eggs or dal in one s pre-dawn meal as it provides energy for the rest of the day.

'For patients living with diabetes, the decision to fast should be made keeping in mind religious guidelines for exemption and after careful medical consultation. Also, doctors must ensure that they educate their high-risk patients about the dangers of observing the fast and discourage them from it. This will ensure a safe and healthy Ramadan,' added Dr Sanjay Kalra. Also, read about dos and don ts for diabetics during Ramadan (sample meal plan included).

A few guidelines for patients with diabetes

People with diabetes should seek medical advice and undergo a pre-assessment test before the onset of Ramadan. Also, if you experience any symptoms of low blood glucose or high blood glucose, consult your doctor immediately and get your blood glucose level tested. Here's more on tests for diabetes you should know about.
A monitored diet plan should be maintained. Avoid ingesting food with high doses of sugar, fat and carbohydrate as it can lead to post-meal hyperglycemia.
To avoid dehydration, intake of adequate amount of fluid (sugar-free) is recommended. The more people living with diabetes are informed about the diet do s & don ts, the better they can exercise self-control and can take timely precautionary measures.
It is best for patients living with Type 1 diabetes to consult their doctors regarding insulin dose adjustment as they are at higher risk of hypoglycemia. Individuals with Type 2 diabetes can have a prior diet chart plan made as directed by the endocrinologist, and get an overall diabetes management plan.
Blood sugar should be regularly monitored to avoid any adverse effect on health. All patients should end their fast if blood sugar reaches less than 70 mg/dl. Also read about more tips to stay healthy while fasting during Ramadan.

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