Imagine this: It’s the first day of Ramadan, and you wake up for Suhoor, determined to fast. You have a small meal, drink some water, and begin your fast, feeling confident. By midday, though, you start feeling shaky. That’s when you know your blood sugar levels are fluctuating.
For many people with diabetes, this is what a normal day during Ramadan looks like. Blood sugar spikes and crashes can make fasting feel impossible, but with the right strategies, it can be done safely. Leading neurologists in Dubai mention in interviews and on blogs just how many patients experiencing dizziness and fainting during fasting are often unaware that these symptoms stem from poorly managed blood sugar levels. Understanding your body’s responses and making smart adjustments can make all the difference.
How does fasting affect your blood sugar so much?
Fasting alters the body’s metabolism. Without food, glucose levels drop, prompting the liver to release stored sugar. Once those reserves run low, the body starts breaking down fat for energy. For people with diabetes, this process can become unpredictable. Some may experience dangerous hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), while others might see hyperglycemia (high blood sugar) after Iftar due to overeating or consuming too many carbs.
The risk isn’t the same for everyone. Type 1 diabetics who rely on insulin have the highest risk of complications, whereas some Type 2 diabetics may be able to fast safely with careful planning. Either way, it’s crucial to listen to your body’s signals and take preventative measures.
Minimising blood sugar spikes and crashes.
• Be strategic in Suhoor.
Suhoor is your body’s fuel for the day, so what you eat matters. A meal rich in complex carbohydrates, protein, and healthy fats helps sustain energy levels. Avoid sugary cereals, white bread, or fruit juices, which can cause a sugar rush followed by a sharp crash.
A patient once told an ENT in Dubai that he always felt weak and lightheaded by the afternoon, even though he ate a big Suhoor. The problem? He loaded up on refined carbs like white rice and mutabaq, which gave him energy for a couple of hours but left him drained later. Switching to fiber-rich foods helped him maintain steadier blood sugar throughout the day.
• Stay hydrated.
Dehydration can worsen blood sugar fluctuations. Since you can’t drink water throughout the day, focus on hydration before and after fasting. But here’s the key: chugging water right before Fajr won’t help much. You’re not camels. Instead, sip gradually through the night and eat hydrating foods like cucumbers, watermelon, and soups.
• Break your fast wisely.
It’s tempting to indulge at Iftar, but overloading on fried foods, sweets, or soft drinks leads to blood sugar spikes. Instead, start with dates and water, followed by a balanced meal with protein, fiber, and healthy fats.
Imagine you’ve been fasting all day, and you break your fast with a deep-fried samosa, a couple of sugary drinks, and a plate full of biryani. You feel great for about 30 minutes—then the crash hits. Instead, a balanced Iftar with grilled chicken, whole wheat roti, and vegetables keeps sugar levels stable.
• Adjust medications if needed.
Some diabetes medications can increase the risk of hypoglycemia when fasting. If you’re on insulin or other blood sugar-lowering drugs, speak to your doctor about adjusting your dosage. Sometimes, switching the timing of medications can prevent dangerous sugar drops.
• Know when to break your fast.
Islamic teachings emphasise that health should never be compromised. If you experience symptoms like intense dizziness, confusion, sweating, or a pounding heartbeat, it may be time to break your fast.
A diabetic patient once shared that he felt guilty breaking his fast early. But, after consulting his doctor, he realised that fasting should not come at the cost of his well-being. Listening to your body is important!
So, can you fast safely with diabetes?
The answer isn’t the same for everyone. Some people can fast with minimal adjustments, while others may need to modify their approach or even refrain from fasting. Consulting an endocrinologist before Ramadan can help you determine whether fasting is safe for you and what precautions you should take.
Diabetes and fasting require careful balance, but with the right approach, many people can observe Ramadan without compromising their health.
