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    Manage diabetes during Ramadan

    Manage diabetes during Ramadan
    1. Should diabetic patients avoid fasting?

      Blood Glucose Test

      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.
    2. 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.
    3. 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.

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