Managing blood sugar levels is crucial for individuals with diabetes, whether through a well-balanced diet or prescribed medications. A widely discussed topic is whether diabetics should fast during Ramadan, a concern that affects many people globally.
Dr. Fahim Ullah, a Consultant Endocrinologist at diabetes councils, states, “Diabetic patients without kidney or heart complications may fast. However, those with high blood sugar should refrain from fasting, particularly without medical approval.”
Fasting can pose significant health risks for diabetics, especially those on insulin or glucose-lowering medications. Therefore, consulting a General Physician or Endocrinologist before deciding to fast is essential. Diabetic individuals must understand how fasting may impact their health and take necessary precautions to prevent dangerous fluctuations in blood sugar levels.
“For those who choose to fast, having a nourishing suhoor is key, and iftar should be spread over two to three smaller meals instead of consuming everything at once, as this can lead to sudden spikes in blood sugar,” advises Dr. Fahim Ullah. Maintaining proper glycemic control is possible by following a carefully planned diet throughout Ramadan.
Exercise Suggestions for Patients with Diabetes During Ramadan
Individuals with diabetes should engage in regular light-intensity exercise, tailored to their medical history. A daily walk of 20–30 minutes is generally advisable. To minimize the risk of hypoglycemia, it’s best to schedule exercise about two hours after iftar.
Nutrition and Health
People with diabetes must carefully manage their food intake to maintain energy levels throughout the day. The pre-dawn meal should be eaten as late as possible before the fast begins and should be rich in carbohydrates and fiber for sustained energy. It is essential to avoid sugary drinks and fried foods at iftar to prevent blood sugar spikes.
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After breaking the fast, a well-balanced dinner consisting of complex carbohydrates, vegetables, and protein is recommended, followed by a light snack before bed. Dr. Fahim Ullah emphasizes that dehydration is a key cause of weakness during fasting, advising diabetic individuals to stay well-hydrated by drinking water consistently between iftar and suhoor.
Guidelines for Diet
These choices provide a reliable source of energy while helping to maintain stable blood sugar levels.
Ramadan Dietary Guidelines for Patients with Diabetes
| Suhoor/Predawn meal | Iftaar/Sunset meal | Snack post Iftaar |
|---|---|---|
| 1 small whole wheat roti | 1 glass of water/lemon infused water | 1 bran bread sandwich |
| 2 egg vegetable omelette | 1 date | 1 cup of green tea |
| ½ cup yogurt with any seasonal fruit (apple, peach, guava etc.) | Bowl of fresh salad | |
| 1-2 shami kabab/1 small bowl chana chaat | ||
| 1 plate chicken curry with 1 whole wheat roti |
Diabetic patients are strongly encouraged to consult their General Physicians before Ramadan to ensure a safe fasting experience and receive personalized dietary guidance. Monitoring blood sugar levels both during fasting and after iftar is essential for maintaining stability.
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