On Karva Chauth, as per the custom, women observe a day-long fast and pray for their husband’s long life and good health. However, this may not be for everyone, especially those diagnosed with diabetes, doctors have warned.
Beginning at sunrise, the fast lasts for about 12 to 15 hours and may or may not entail consuming a glass of water or juice in the afternoon. The fast is broken only once the moon rises.
Good way to detox
While the day-long fast is a good way to detoxify the system, and condition the body and mind, it is also imperative to assess the risks that it may pose for women with conditions such as diabetes, caution city doctors.
They said that on the occasion of Karva Chauth, it is crucial to raise awareness about the implications of fasting without adequate precautions, especially for those with Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes.
Dr. Sanjay Kalra, Endocrinologist and vice-president, South Asian Federation of Endocrine Societies, said: “Intermittent fasting has many proven health benefits. However, in women living with diabetes, fasting, without adequate safe guards, can lead to hypoglycemia. Karva Chauth requires women to abstain from water all day. This can cause dehydration, dyselectrolytemia, and hypotension. Once the fast is completed, they tend to over indulge in food that is high in fat, carbohydrate, and calories. This can cause peaks of hyperglycemia and worsen glycemia variability. Those with Type 1 diabetes are at a higher risk of developing hypoglycemia. It is possible for women living with diabetes to enjoy this festival provided they take good care of their dietary regimen.”
Early meal vital
Doctors say that the meal before the fasting starts, consumed early in the morning, should ideally be a nutrient-rich meal as it will enable them to sustain themselves throughout the day. “It holds even more importance in case of those living with diabetes. A sargi rich in protein and complex carbohydrates is ideal before beginning the fast. It is important to break the fast with light food,” adds Dr. Kalra.
Doctors advise avoiding food rich in trans fats right after breaking the fast. Start by sipping water or juice to hydrate yourself. This can be followed up with some protein-rich food rather than consuming sweets and fried foods. Include vegetables, curd, wholegrains in the form of chapatis, rice with pulses or dal as part of your post-fast diet.
“Fasting may be a spiritual belief and part of our culture. However, it is beneficial only when done in a planned and healthy manner, especially those living with diabetes,” doctors said. Apart from patients, it is also imperative for doctors to ensure that they create awareness among their high-risk patients about the dangers of keeping a fast without taking adequate precautionary measures, say city doctors.