Managing diabetes during Ramadan

Millions of Muslims worldwide will begin fasting for the holy month of Ramadan, Wednesday. Although, the Quran permits someone with diabetes not to fast, there are some who may who want to do so. Arab Today speaks to dietitian Nabil al-Ayashi about the most important recommendations for managing diabetes during Ramadan. Al-Ayashi stated that an individual's diet during Ramadan should not differ significantly from a healthy and balanced diet. The common practice of ingesting large amounts of food rich in carbohydrate and fat, especially at the sunset meal, should be avoided. The medic explained food containing “complex” carbohydrates may be advisable at the predawn meal, while foods with more simple carbohydrates may be more appropriate at the sunset meal. He also stressed the need to increase the fluid intake during non-fasting hours and that the predawn meal be taken as late as possible before the start of the daily fast. Regarding exercise during Ramadan, al-Ayashi said that normal levels of physical activity may be maintained. However, excessive physical activity may lead to higher risk of hypoglycemia and should be avoided, particularly during the few hours before the sunset meal, he warned. If Tarawih prayer (multiple prayers after the sunset meal) is performed, then it should be considered a part of the daily exercise programme, he recommended, warning that in some patients with poorly controlled type 1 diabetes, exercise may lead to extreme hyperglycemia.