Medical experts Thursday recommended diabetics for daily assessment during Ramzan which would make patients aware of risks, based on which they could be advised to minimize the risks.
Diabetic Patients in Ramzan should avoid consuming highly refined and fatty foods after breaking the fast, nutritionist Dr Sohail Uzair said while talking to a private news channel.
Dr Uzair said eating a healthful, balanced diet can help people with diabetes manage their condition and reduce their risk of health-related complications.
Carbohydrates are an important source of energy, but a person with diabetes should be careful when choosing carbs to eat.
He explained, highly processed foods that are high in calories and low in vitamins, minerals, and fibre break down quickly in the body and can cause a rapid rise in blood sugar levels.
Dr Uzair said fasting during Ramzan can be dangerous for diabetics but for those who choose to fast, follow these guidelines to minimize health risks during the holy month.
The expert said fasting can put diabetics, especially those with type 1 at risk of low blood sugar a serious medical emergency that can result in seizures, coma and even death if not treated urgently. He recommended the patients with diabetes should check their blood glucose levels more often than usual. Testing every three to five hours should be adequate.
They should ensure that they have a well-balanced breakfast that includes a healthy low-GI carbohydrate, some protein and some healthy fat, adding, this will assist them in sustaining healthy blood glucose levels throughout the day.
Diabetics should drink lots of water with their breakfast and avoid physical activity during the day.
Exercising without eating is a big no-no for diabetics. If your job requires physical activity, ensure that you are checking your blood glucose often, he added.
The medical expert said doctors and patients must work together on how to organize medication and diet schedules so that diabetes is managed effectively during the 30 days of Ramzan.
While breaking the day-long fast, the body needs to be well hydrated and one should drink sugar-free and decaffeinated fluids.
“It is important for a diabetic to take natural sugar in the form of fruits instead of juices,” he added.
At sehri, one should eat food in small quantities.
Avoid sweets, fried snacks and foods that have high salt or sugar content, he mentioned.
They should include fruits, vegetables and salads in their meals and to use healthier cooking methods such as baking and grilling,” he concluded.
