
- 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 to 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 individualised advice so as to minimise 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 (pre-dawn 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 two hours after Iftar.
- What symptoms to look out for?
- Chest pain
- Confusion
- Dizziness
- Fruity odour on breath
- Heart palpitation
- Muscle cramps
- Nausea & vomiting
- Weakness
4. When you feel unwell or experience the symptoms above
- Break you fast
- Check your blood glucose immediately
- Seek medical advice immediately if:
- blood glucose <3.3mmol/L (60mg/dL)
- blood glucose <3.9mmol/L (70mg/dL) in first few hourse after starting of fast
- blood glucose >16.7mmol/L (300mg/dL)
- Call 995 if you need an ambulance immediately
- Avoid fastng on sick days.
Updated July 2023