The month-long celebration of Ramadan started last week and religious people, including Christians throughout at various points throughout the year, take part in fasting. However, what is it like for those with diabetes, and especially are there concerns when it comes to their health when fasting?
Keeping blood sugars in check, being compliant to medications and observing proper diet are important among diabetics who fast, say Oman experts, according to The Times of Oman report.
"While it is alright for those with diabetes to fast...they do need to take certain precautions to safeguard their health," said Dr. V. C. P. Muhamed, an Internal Medicine specialist, in the news report.
Kassem Allie, said in a news report from ABC that diabetes is an increasing concern among some.
While fasting holds an exemption for people with medical issues like diabetes and pregnancy, Allie said that there are also some people who will still stick to the rituals.
"People are disappointed they can't fast," Allie said pertaining to diabetics. He explained that some people are unwilling to give up fasting because it has become "a way of life."
Still, health experts urge diabetics to be extra cautious when fasting.
Diabetics may need to observe long periods without food when fasting, with those taking part in Ramadan fasting for up to 15-hours. Medics say this can increase hypoglycemia risk, and to tackle this, patients should take insulin to combat the effects.
Meanwhile, Lisa Cimperman, a dietitian from the University Hospitals Case Medical Center in Cleveland Ohio, said in the ABC News report that Type 1 diabetics are less likely to be safe when fasting due to the delicate nature of the illness.
As for Type 2 diabetics, Cimperman said that these people can just tweak their schedules to stabilize their blood sugar levels when adjusting to the changes that come with fasting.
