Ramadan 2018: How should diabetics fast during Ramzan?

Strict fasting (roza) is observed wherein Muslims eat before sunrise and after sunset.

By: Aishwarya Iyer | | Published: May 23, 2018 11:51 am

Ramzan is a month-long activity, where observers abstain from food and drink during the day and eat only between sunset and sunrise. Strict fasting(roza) is observed wherein Muslims eat before sunrise and after sunset.

Diabetes and hypertension are becoming very common these days. This means more and more people suffer from the ailment. It is generally believed that diabetics should consume something every two hours. Therefore, for diabetics, this tradition of fasting and feasting alternately can be challenging. As blood glucose levels may fluctuate during fasting, if certain instructions are not followed to have event-less fasting.

‘With proper counselling about fasting and diabetes, patients may reduce the risks such as dehydration, hyper- and hypoglycaemia, diabetic ketoacidosis and thrombosis,’ said Dr Altamash Shaikh, Consultant Endocrinologist, Diabetologist and Metabolic Specialist.

Diet precautions are key to managing diabetes during Ramzan. Patients and caregivers first need to identify their risk category, as it is not recommended for very high-risk patients to observe fasting, explains Dr Shaikh.

Diabetics who opt to observe the rigours of Ramzan fasting should ensure that the meals before each fast include the following:
a. Whole grains – brown rice, oats, wheat, barley, rye, millet, quinoa etc.
b. Vegetables/produce – broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, kale and other leafy vegetables, potatoes with skin, sweet potatoes, yams etc.
c. Legumes – peas, beans, pulses etc
d. Fruits with a low glycemic index – grapefruit, apples, cherries, strawberries etc

Patients should also ensure ample fluid intake before beginning their daily fasts and after they break their fasts, to prevent dehydration.

Image Source: Shutterstock

Published : May 23, 2018 11:51 am

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