Healthy Fasting Tips for Diabetes Sufferers
The holy month of Ramadan is a month that is always awaited by all Muslims in all parts of the world. During the month of Ramadan, Muslims are required to carry out fasting and other sunnah worship in order to obtain double blessings and rewards. However, people suffering from several chronic diseases usually experience problems and are not advised to fast due to limited circumstances and health conditions.
Diabetes Mellitus is a disease caused by increased blood sugar levels (hyperglycemia) which occurs due to a lack of insulin produced by the pancreas or a disruption in the work of insulin in muscle and fat tissue. Hyperglycemia that lasts for a long time will cause damage to various body organs, including the eyes, kidneys, heart, nerves and blood vessels. For diabetes sufferers who are fasting, managing their diet, physical activity and medication intake schedule is very important, because if not done correctly, it can cause complications and bad effects on health. When fasting, diabetes sufferers often experience symptoms and their health condition decreases when fasting, here are tips for healthy fasting for diabetes sufferers that can be applied:
1. Adjust your eating pattern by continuing to eat 3 times a day
The diet for diabetes sufferers must always be maintained, including when breaking the fast. Eating 3 times a day is recommended for those who are fasting, namely when breaking the fast, after tarawih prayers and eating sahur (early morning)
2. Don't skip eating sahur
Sahur is highly recommended for someone who is going to fast. The benefit of eating sahur is that it fulfills nutritional and energy needs when fasting for approximately 13 hours. If you skip eating sahur, it is feared that there will be dangers to your health, such as increasing the risk of dehydration, decreased body resistance, triggering hypoglycemia and increasing the risk of stomach acid.
3. Avoid excessive eating and drinking when breaking the fast and sahur
Even though the body feels hungry, it is advisable not to eat and drink too much when breaking the fast. Start by consuming takjil then continue by consuming foods with balanced nutrition
4. Avoid fried foods and foods that contain too much sugar
Eating fried foods can cause fat accumulation in the body and can also increase blood sugar levels. Apart from that, it is not recommended to consume foods or drinks that contain a lot of sugar so that blood sugar levels remain stable
5. Check blood sugar levels regularly
Check your blood sugar levels regularly at home independently with a blood sugar measuring device. Apart from saving costs compared to having to go to a health service facility every time you want to check your blood sugar levels, this can also increase the discipline to continue monitoring blood sugar levels to prevent hypoglycemia or hyperglycemia for diabetes sufferers.
6. Take medication according to doctor's recommendations
While fasting, diabetes sufferers are also required to continue taking the medication prescribed by the doctor. If necessary, the doctor will arrange a drug consumption schedule during fasting to ensure that the dose and time of drug administration are consistent.
If you experience symptoms of health problems while fasting, don't hesitate to consult a doctor and get the right diagnosis and treatment at Hermina Hospital Makassar. Happy fasting.
References:
- Cornel Health. Diakses pada 2024. Tips for Healthy Ramadan Fasting.
- Healthline. Diakses pada 2024. How to Fast Safely: 10 Helpful Tips.