In India, 72.9 million people are living with diabetes, and one in every six diabetes patient in the world is an Indian. The estimates of children and adolescents below the age of 19 with type-1 diabetes have risen to over a million.
Doctors blame rapid urbanisation, unhealthy diets, and increased sedentary lifestyles for the higher rates of diabetes. Another factor adding up to the risk is fasting. It can also increase the threat of dangerously high blood sugar.
In the ongoing month of Ramzan, diabetes patients put themselves at the edge to a serious health issue. Fasting during Ramzan is compulsory for all healthy adult Muslims, although exemptions exist for people with serious medical conditions.
Health hazards
“The festive season comes with potential health hazards including — hypoglycemia, hyperglycemia, dehydration and acute metabolic complications — such as diabetic ketoacidosis,” said Rajeev Bansal, consultant physician and diabetologist, Max Super Speciality Hospital, Patparganj.
Doctors state that it is very important to maintain good diabetes management during fasting.
Limit exercises
Although rigorous exercise is not recommended during fasting because of the increased risk of hypoglycemia and/or dehydration, patients with diabetes should be encouraged to take regular light-to-moderate exercise during Ramzan. Patients should be reminded that physical exertions involved in tarawih prayers, such as bowing, kneeling and rising, should be considered part of their daily exercise activities.
“During Ramzan, we urge our Muslim brothers to take special care of themselves and if diabetic, it is highly recommended to keep the glucose level in check. Meet your doctor and consult them. With proper diabetes management, have a safe and prosperous Ramzan,” said doctors.