Search

Personal menu

Manage diabetes during Ramadan

07 Mar 2023

Manage diabetes during Ramadan

Should diabetic patients avoid fasting?

The American Diabetes Association highlights that diabetic patients run a risk of medical complications during fasting.
However, as fasting is a personal decision, diabetic patients should discuss their treatment plan with their physicians at least 1-2 months before Ramadan begins.

How to manage your diabetes during Ramadan?

At least 1 - 2 months before Ramadan	Pre - Ramadan medical assessment Speak to your physician for individualized advice so as to minimize the risk associated with fasting.
During fasting, especially daytime	Monitor your blood sugar levels more frequently especially if you are on insulin therapy or multiple anti-diabetic medications. Test your blood sugar immediately if you experience hypoglycemic symptoms or are feeling unwell.
During Iftar (sunset meal) or Suhur (predawn meal)	Avoid eating too much carbohydrates and fat, especially during Iftar. Drink more water during non-fasting hours
When exercising	Avoid excessive rigorous exercise especially before Iftar (sunset meal). Change your exercise timing to about 2 hours after Iftar.

What symptoms to look out for?

Chest pain
Confusion
Dizziness
Fruity odour on breath
Heart palpitation
Muscle cramps
Nausea & vomiting
Weakness

When you feel unwell/ experience the symptoms above

Break your fast
Check your blood glucose immediately
Seek medical advice immediately if:
- blood glucose < 3.3 mmol/L (60 mg/dL)
- blood glucose < 3.9 mmol/L (70 mg/dL) in first few hours after starting of fast
- Blood glucose > 16.7 mmol/L (300mg/ dL)
Call 995 if you need an ambulance immediately

Avoid fasting on sick days.

Comments

Write a comment Close