Diabetes and Ramadan
Roza ( observing fast ) during the month of Ramadan Mubarak is one of the most important religious practice , in Islam. When you have diabetes, you may be wondering how fasting will affect your diabetes. There is a huge information now , about diabetes and Ramadan. This document is prepared to answer some of the most common questions , with evidence based medicine.
Is fasting mandatory for everyone?
No. This is based on the Holy Quran as well as the teachings of Islamic religious scholars over centuries. The Quran states that there are groups of people who do not have to fast, especially if it puts their health at risk. This includes children under 12 , pregnant or breastfeeding women, the elderly and anyone who might make themselves ill by fasting. This also includes people with poorly controlled diabetes and Diabetics with complications.
What is poorly controlled Diabetes.?
The first parameter is ofcourse constant high blood Sugar , which is on overage Random blood sugar more than 300 and HbA1c of more than 8 . In addition, having repeated low blood sugars, as low as 70 mg / dl is also considered to be uncontrolled diabetes.
Moreover, patients Having Diabetes with complications, particularly with heart disease , stroke , kidney disease , are specially advised to consult their physician, Before planning for Roza .
What should a Diabetic do , if he or she wants to observe Roza ?
1. Arrange a meeting with your Diabetologist/ Endocrinologist to asses your fitness for Roza .
2. Your doctor, will also guide u , how to adjust your medication , during Ramadan .
3. You also need some guidance for modifying your meals for Sehri and Iftari .
What are the risks of Unplanned Roza ?
You can develop dangerously low blood sugar, as well as severe high ..there is always a risk of severe dehydration, blood clotting and Diabetic Ketoacidosis ( a Diabetic Emergency, which can actually be fatal ) , in case of unplanned Roza .
Am I allowed to monitor Blood sugar during Roza ?
Yes , certainly you can monitor your blood sugars during Roza .
Can I break fast if I m developing Hypoglycaemia or low blood sugar ?
Yes . It is recommended to break fast if your blood sugar is below 70 mg / dl .
References :
Khaled Al-Rubean et al .Recommendations for Management of Diabetes During Ramadan , Diabetes care , Sept ;25 ( 9 ) 2005 : 2305-2311 . Available at https://doi.org/10.2337/
Mohamed Hassanein et al .Diabetes and Ramadan Practical Guidelines .International Diabetes Federation (IDF), in collaboration with the Diabetes and Ramadan (DAR) International Alliance . April 2016 .
Excellent info.thanx