Fasting during Ramadan can be dangerous for those with health conditions such as diabetes, Diabetes UK has warned. Those who observe fasting during the month, due to start on June 7, will go over 17 hours a day without eating during the long summer days.
There is also a risk of overeating at Suhoor and Iftar, the meals before and after fasting, which can send blood glucose levels to dangerously high levels. If fasting is likely to put your health at risk, you can complete your duties by offering charity or providing food to the poor.
People with diabetes are advised to speak with their Imam and healthcare team to work out whether it is safe to fast, and for those who do, how to keep good diabetes control during the period.
Diabetes UK has worked in partnership with the Muslim Council of Britain to develop information on Ramadan and diabetes.
Krishna Sarda, Engaging Communities Manager at Diabetes UK, said: “Diabetes UK recognises and respects that this is a very important time for people and we are urging people with diabetes to take care of their health during this period. South Asian people are two to four times more likely to develop Type 2 diabetes and that means there will be lots of people with the condition who may think they have to fast for Ramadan.
For more information on diabetes and fasting, call Diabetes UK’s helpline on 0345 123 2399 or visit www.diabetes.org.uk/Ramadan.
