Fasting in the month of Ramadan is an obligatory worship that must be carried out by all Muslims. However, for diabetics, fasting can lead to dangerous complications if not done properly.
When fasting, diabetics are more at risk of experiencing an increase or decrease in blood sugar levels. This condition can make diabetic patients susceptible to diabetes complications, such as hypoglycemia, hyperglycemia, diabetic ketoacidosis, and dehydration.
Fasting Tips for Diabetics
The following are some fasting tips for diabetics that you need to know:
1. Consult a doctor
Before deciding to fast during Ramadan, diabetic patients should first consult with their doctor. Doctors can check the condition of the body and blood sugar levels, as well as provide suggestions for fasting properly.
2. Avoid foods high in carbohydrates and fats
When breaking the fast, avoid consuming foods that contain simple carbohydrates, such as rice and white bread. These foods can increase blood sugar levels quickly, increasing the risk of hyperglycemia or increased blood sugar levels.
Instead, eat foods high in protein, and complex carbohydrates. In addition, people who are fasting are also not recommended to eat fatty foods when breaking the fast
3. Reduce physical activity
While fasting, diabetic patients are also advised not to do excessive physical activity. The reason is, doing excessive physical activity or fatigue during fasting can cause hypoglycemia. Hypoglycemia is a condition when blood sugar levels are below normal.
4. Fulfill your fluid intake
Diabetics are more likely to become dehydrated because blood sugar levels are too high and the body is dehydrated. When fasting, the body automatically does not get enough fluid intake, so it will worsen the condition.
Therefore, adequate fluid intake during iftar and suhoor can make the body avoid dehydration during fasting. However, avoid consuming drinks that are too sweet or caffeinated, because both types of drinks are at risk of causing dehydration.
5. Be aware of the symptoms of low blood sugar
If you feel some symptoms, such as cold sweats, shaking, and dizziness, then immediately stop fasting. These symptoms can be a sign that the body is experiencing hypoglycemia. To overcome this, try consuming sugary foods and drinks that can increase blood sugar levels, such as sweets, sweet teas, and fruit juices.
In addition, diabetics also need to continue to monitor blood sugar levels and adjust the dose of diabetes medication used while fasting.
The fasting tips for diabetics above can be a guide in fasting safely. But keep in mind, if your blood sugar level is 300 mg/dl, then immediately cancel the fast. This could be a sign that you have hypoglycemia or hyperglycemia.
Fasting is obligatory for all Muslims, however, those of you who suffer from diabetes should reconsider before undergoing it.
Therefore, diabetics are advised to undergo a medical examination and consult a doctor at least 1-2 months before going to fast.
