Fasting safely this Ramadan as a diabetic Muslim
The holy month of Ramadan began last week, on the 23rd of April. In this month, many Muslims may fast from dawn to sunset, breaking fast in the evening with Iftar.
Fasting could be dangerous for Muslims with uncontrolled diabetes. The main risk of fasting for diabetic Muslims is hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar. Diet plays an important role in managing diabetes. Without adjustments in the dosage of diabetes medication, fasting could cause a drop in blood sugar levels, leading to potentially dire consequences such as seizures or unconsciousness.
How can you fast safely with diabetes?
Work with your doctor to adjust your medicine dosage. Changes to your medication schedule, such as smaller doses before Sahur (pre-fasting meal), larger doses at night, or reducing the overall daily dosage of medication will help you better manage your glucose levels throughout the day. Do not adjust or stop medication on your own; always discuss with your doctor prior to making any adjustments.
Closely monitor your blood sugar levels. Pay attention to your body and look out for signs of low blood sugar or dehydration. Track your blood sugar levels in the entire course of the day and stop fasting immediately if you show symptoms of hypoglycemia, including dizziness, tremors, hunger, sweating, and confusion.
Eat in moderation before and after fasting. Do not skip Sahur and eat promptly after Iftar (fast-breaking meal in the evening). Refrain from eating sugary foods and too much carbohydrates as they could cause a spike in glucose levels, and drink at least 8 cups of sugar-free drinks to stay hydrated.
Navigating Ramadan amist COVID-19 as a diabetic Muslim
This year’s Ramadan began with a different atmosphere due to the closure of mosques and having to stay home with your families instead of going out to visit your extended family.
As someone with diabetes, you are considered to be at higher risk of complications due to COVID-19. Keeping your condition under control is also another way to stay safe and lower your vulnerability to the virus. However, this makes going out for a routine checkup challenging. On one hand, it is especially pertinent that you stay home as much as possible to reduce your chances of catching the virus, but on the other, receiving your checkups and blood tests is key in managing diabetes.
Instead of taking the risk and going out for your checkups and tests, why not let the doctor come to you? Speedoc’s professional doctors and nurses can provide home visits to administer routine blood tests, discuss medication adjustments, monitor your progress, and provide advice on dietary adjustments, all from the comfort and safety of your own home.
Working with a doctor to keep your diabetes in check and well-managed will ensure a comfortable and safe holy month of Ramadan. Check out Speedoc’s diabetes management package for a structured care schedule, or find out more about our doctor home visits on our website. To book a visit from a Speedoc doctor or nurse, visit our online booking system, download our app on the App Store or Google Play Store, or call or WhatsApp us at [+65 8180 8948](tel:+6581808948].
