Prepared by: Dr. Kawthar Eid
Diabetics face health challenges when fasting in Ramadan, as refrain from food for long periods can lead to fluctuations in blood sugar levels, which may cause complications such as lack of sugar, high sugar and dehydration. Therefore, a diabetic must consult a doctor before fasting to assess his health and make the necessary adjustments in medications and diet.
When is fasting not safe for a diabetic?
Patients with non -disciplined diabetes or are exposed to a frequent drop in sugar.
Those who have serious complications such as kidney or heart disease.
Patients who need frequent doses of insulin or take medications that may cause a severe decrease in sugar.
– Those who suffer from type 1 diabetes with severe fluctuations in the level of sugar.
Guidelines for a safe fast for a diabetic patient:
1- Measure the level of sugar regularly: Sugar should be examined several times a day, especially before breakfast and suhoor, and after two hours of meals. If the sugar decreases to 70 mg/d in or rises and it is fasting to 300 mg/dloper, breakfast must be immediately.
2- Eat a late suhoor meal: It should contain complex carbohydrates (such as brown bread and oats), proteins, and healthy fats to provide energy that lasts all day.
3- Avoid sugary and fried foods: because it may cause a sudden rise in the sugar level.
4- Drink enough water between breakfast and suhoor to avoid dehydration.
5- Divide breakfast: It is preferable to start dates and water, then eat a balanced meal after half an hour to avoid sudden sugar.
6- Performing physical activity with caution: It is preferable to avoid hard exercises during fasting, and light walking can be practiced after breakfast.
If the patient feels very tired as symptoms of low sugar (dizziness, sweating, tremor) or its height (severe thirst, frequent urination), he must break the fast immediately. It is necessary to consult a doctor to determine whether fasting is appropriate, and how to adjust medications to avoid complications.
* Public Health Consultant – President of the Friends of Health Association
