Navigating a fast can be challenging because it requires a significant shift in routine and way of life, which can make it difficult for people to maintain normal blood sugar levels throughout the day
The holy month of Ramadan is here and as most people think of food available during iftar, there is a lot to look for during the period. It’s a time for spiritual development, for getting back in touch with one’s religion, and for being kind and compassionate to others. In order to concentrate on your inner self instead of food or drink, you can also fast for 30 days from sunrise to sunset.
With Ramadan here and ‘iftari’ preparations in the mind, it is crucial to think about the best ways to support diabetics and those who care for them in fully celebrating the holiday. Navigating a fast can be challenging because it requires a significant shift in routine and way of life, which can make it challenging for people to maintain normal blood sugar levels throughout the day. In order to comprehend any risks and have a strategy in place to manage your diabetes as effectively as possible, it can be very helpful to consult your doctor before fasting.
Dr Shehla Shaikh, consultant endocrinologist, Saifee Hospital, Mumbai said, “For people with controlled diabetes, there are steps they can take to manage their sugar levels, especially while fasting for long periods during Ramadan. There are several healthy eating habits people should follow for the periods between ‘sehri’ and ‘iftar’. Don’t forget to monitor your blood sugar during your fast; you can do this effortlessly while on the go as there are now Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) device options available in addition to conventional blood glucose meters that require finger pricking. Taking one’s doctor’s advice is also important to understand any changes required with their medication.”
When it comes to managing diabetes while fasting, using metrics like time in range through a CGM monitor can be very beneficial. The proportion of time that a person’s blood glucose levels are within a given range (typically 70 to 180 mg/dl) is known as the time in range. A longer period of time in the target range is linked to more frequent blood sugar checks, which can help you maintain better glucose regulation and lower your risk of developing long-term health issues. One should try to be within range for roughly 17 of each day’s 24 hours. In addition, there are a few important considerations for diabetics to bear in mind as they observe Ramadan.
