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Check your symptomsHelping Muslim Diabetics Remain Well at Ramadan – Part 2
May 11, 2019
In the final part of this series, we continue our look at how Muslim Diabetics remain well during Ramadan.
By Dr S Kama-Kieghe
In part one, we learn that it is important for Muslim Diabetics to be aware that possibly serious complications and ill
We showed why it is important for health care providers to conduct pre-assessments and identify risks for ill health.
Next, we look at how best to manage Diabetes during and after the fasting period.
The key actions to take to keep control of blood sugar (blood glucose) levels are:
In addition to risk assessment, it is important to develop a plan that is specific to the individual depending on their other medical history and medications.
There may be a need to adjust current medications by changing their dose to reduce the risk of hypoglycaemia.
Hypoglycaemia (when the blood sugar drops very low: less than 4mmol/l or 72mg/dl) can happen during periods of stress/ illness/ missed meals/or if taking insulin or one of the Sulphonylurea oral drugs eg Gliclazide, Glimepiride or Glipizide.
Low-glycemic-index, high-
Low-calorie snacks such as nuts, fruits, or vegetables can be consumed between meals at night.
Important references should be made towards food preparation and portions, too.
It is advisable to limit fried foods and deep-frying –
Another tip is to encourage diabetics to space out meals – with small portion sizes.
Fruits, vegetables and yoghurt can be taken in meals at Iftar and Suhoor/Sehri and snacks between.
When fasting, we would recommend that Diabetic p
After successfully completing the fast and avoiding ill health, diabetics can gradually resume full meals with care.
Some celebratory events follow Ramadan; including the Eid el Fitr, where lots of high-carb or sugary foods are consumed.
Many Muslims may indulge in communal feasting, with family and friends eating a mixture of different foods from
This may prevent people from judging portion sizes properly leading to sharp changes in sugar levels.
In addition to portion control, diabetics should also ensure hydration, restart their pre-Ramadan diabetes medication regimen, and monitor blood sugars closely during the Eid celebrations.
Finally, it’s important to say that with planning, collaboration and simple adherence to a plan of agreed medication regime and meal practices, many Muslim diabetics will safely complete the fast and benefit from their experience.
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Edited by AskAwayHealth Team
Disclaimer
All AskAwayHealth articles are written by practising Medical Practitioners on a wide range of health care conditions to provide evidence-based guidance and to help promote quality health care. The advice in our material is not meant to replace the management of your specific condition by a qualified health care practitioner.
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