Al Emadi Hospital’s diabetes and endocrinology consultant, Dr. Ghassan Hommos, has issued a warning that diabetes is one of the most hazardous diseases for those fasting during the holy month of Ramadan. This is particularly true for those who do not follow the precautions and instructions to protect them from complications or seizures during the fasting period. Due to the lack of food and drink during daylight hours in Ramadan, blood sugar levels in the body can decrease, making it particularly difficult for individuals with diabetes, particularly those with type 1 diabetes, to manage their condition.
Dr. Hommos recommended that fasting should be carried out under the guidance of a doctor, who can evaluate the patient’s condition and offer continuous support. The doctor is the one who ultimately decides whether or not to fast, and in some cases, patients are advised not to fast due to the difficulty of managing their condition. This includes patients who require insulin doses, the elderly, and cases of unstable diabetes.
To ensure proper management of diabetes during Ramadan, the doctor will design a suitable treatment and nutrition program that considers the patient’s health status. Additionally, the doctor will establish methods for organizing meals and monitoring blood glucose levels. Diabetics must measure blood sugar levels at home three times a day, before breakfast, two hours after dinner, and before suhoor. If the result indicates high blood sugar, it is recommended that the patient breaks their fast.
Dr. Hommos explained that acceptable blood sugar levels during the day should be more than 100 mg/dL and less than 200 mg/dL. Before breakfast, the acceptable range is 100-130 mg/dL, and two to three hours after breakfast, it is 140-180 mg/dL. He added that if a diabetic patient experiences symptoms of hypoglycemia, such as dizziness, sweating, palpitations, hunger, and lack of concentration, they must break their fast immediately. Hypoglycemia can have serious effects on the heart and brain.
Dr. Hommos advised that diabetic patients should carry a source of sugar, such as a piece of candy, dates, or a sugary drink, in their workplace, home, or car, for use in case of emergency. Additionally, they should avoid physical exertion during the day in Ramadan, especially in hot weather, to reduce the likelihood of hypoglycemia and dehydration. Pregnant and breastfeeding women who require insulin should not fast, whether they have type 1 or type 2 diabetes. Finally, Dr. Hommos emphasized the need for diabetics to adhere to dietary and medicinal adjustments during fasting, in addition to continuous monitoring of blood glucose levels.
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