Fasting for Ramadan 2023: The holy month of Ramadan, also known as Ramzan, is rapidly approaching, and Muslims around the world are eagerly awaiting the sighting of the crescent moon. If the crescent moon is seen in Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and other Muslim-majority countries on the evening of March 21, Ramadan is expected to begin on March 22.
Muslims who observe the fast or roze during Ramadan do not eat or drink from dawn to dusk and traditionally break their fast with a date. Diabetes patients must exercise caution when fasting for extended periods of time and seek advice from their healthcare provider regarding insulin dosage adjustments or changes in diabetes medication.
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Fasting during the month of Ramadan has both physical and spiritual benefits. Fasting, despite its recent popularity, is a centuries-old practise that is central to many cultures and religions. There is a lot of evidence that fasting is good for your body and brain, but the majority of studies have been done on animals. Fasting may have a variety of health benefits, such as weight loss, improved blood sugar control, and reduced inflammation. It may also help to prevent diseases like cancer and neurodegenerative disorders.
The holy month of Ramadan began for Muslims around the world đŸŒ™ — in pictures https://t.co/V2zkf86VdK pic.twitter.com/9twvE2vRW4
— Al Jazeera English (@AJEnglish) March 23, 2023
Ramadan 2023: 5 tips diabetic patients should follow while fasting
Diabetics who fast must regularly monitor their blood sugar levels because they are at risk of hypoglycemia or hyperglycemia. Sehri, the first meal of the day before sunrise, must be carefully planned in order to keep blood sugar levels in check. Adequate hydration, eating nutrient-dense foods, and avoiding high-sugar and calorie-dense foods can all aid in diabetes management during a fast.
- Get Good Sleep: Getting enough sleep is essential for our overall health, especially when fasting. During Ramadan, it is recommended to get up at least an hour earlier to eat Sehri, the pre-dawn meal, and to have enough energy throughout the day. Proper meal preparation and consumption can aid digestion and prevent digestive issues later on.
- Maintain hydration: Many doctors emphasise the importance of staying hydrated while fasting, especially for diabetic patients. To maintain proper body fluids and avoid dehydration, doctors recommends hydrating drinks such as lemon water, buttermilk, coconut water, fresh fruit juices, pomegranate molasses, locust bean drinks, and rose sharbats. She does, however, recommend avoiding caffeinated beverages such as coffee and tea, as they may cause the body to lose minerals and salts.
- Including probiotics: A spoonful of yogurt after your sehri meal can help your health tremendously. It will not only soothe the stomach, but it will also prevent acidity and keep you hydrated throughout the day.
- End the fast with a sugar-free drink: Start your Iftar with a sugar-free hydrating drink and eat in moderation. Samosas, kebabs, and poori are examples of fatty, carb-heavy, and salty foods to avoid. Choose leafy vegetables, fruits, dry fruits, and lean meats like skinless chicken and fish instead. Low-fat cooking methods such as baking, steaming, grilling, and shallow frying should be used.
- Continue to monitor your blood sugar: It is critical to consult a healthcare professional before beginning a fasting regimen, especially if you have underlying health conditions or are taking medication. Blood sugar levels should be monitored on a regular basis for diabetics who plan to fast, and they should be regulated before fasting.
