Managing diabetes during Ramadan: Essential health tips for fasting

As the crescent moon signals the arrival of Ramadan millions around the world will embark on a monthlong journey of prayer and reflectionFor those with diabetes however this sacred period brings forth a unique set of challenges Balancing religious obligations with health considerations can be daunting yet essential for maintaining wellbeing during this holiest month of the Islamic calendarFasting from dawn until sunset is a fundamental pillar of Ramadan However for individuals managing diabetes this abstinence from food and drink can cause fluctuations in blood glucose levelsTo sustain energy levels and nourish the body rituals include predawn meals and evening feasts However for individuals with diabetes these meals require careful consideration to prevent any sudden spikes or drops Alongside a wellbalanced nutritional plan regular monitoring is important for people living with diabetesAccurate and realtime blood glucose readings can be constantly tracked with the help of prickfree devices like continuous glucose monitoring CGM This combination of a balanced diet and regular monitoring is essential for those fasting during this time ensuring effective management of blood glucose levels throughout the holy monthDr Anil Ballani MBBS MD Consultant Physician PD Hinduja and Lilavati Hospital Mumbai said ldquoAccording to a recent ICMR study 101 million people in India are living with diabetes underscoring the importance of effective holistic managementAlso Read Mohalla munch Iftar food walk guide for Mohammad Ali Road in MumbaiAmidst the sacred observance of Ramadan continuous glucose monitoring CGM emerges as an ally for people living with diabetes Through realtime tracking of blood sugar levels CGM empowers individuals to identify and manage any glucose spikes associated with preand postfast mealsBy harnessing CGM insights people can make informed diet decisions This can help them navigate the portion sizes and meal timing along with making diabetesspecific nutrition choices that can address their needs The symbiotic relationship between CGM data and dietary decisions fosters both effective blood glucose management and a sense of empowermentHere are a few tips to manage your diabetes while you observe Ramadan this yearRegularly monitor blood glucose levels It is extremely important to consistently check your blood glucose levels CGM devices support realtime glucose monitoring instead of capturing blood sugar levels at a particular point in timeThe data is easily accessible on your smartphone too and can support easier decisionmaking related to food physical activity and therapy Utilizing data from these devices can enable individuals to take corrective actions with the meal plan and maintain health during this periodProperly recharge your body with nutrients during Iftar According to tradition the fast is broken with dates and fruits which is followed by a properly balanced meal Make sure to drink water and hydrate yourself well and avoid highly caffeinated or sugary drinks like coffee tea and soft drinksIt is important to have a stable meal plan striking a balance between intake of carbohydrates protein and fats Have more nutrients and fibrerich starchy foods like oats multigrain bread vegetables lentils dal and proteins like fish tofu and nutsAlso Read Dry fasting doubles detox speed Expert guide to fast during RamadanAdditionally you can have diabetesspecific oral nutritional supplements as an evening snack during Iftar or even at the time of Sehri Such scientifically formulated supplements with highquality protein and vital nutrients have a slowrelease energy system which helps manage onersquos blood glucose hunger and energy levels Consult your doctor to select the right solutions for your nutritional needsKeep your body moving Physical activity is as important as proper diabetes nutrition it is also essential to maintain good health In addition to eating right during fasting staying fit through regular exercise is a great way to manage diabetesIts recommended to avoid overexertion and aggressive workouts especially during the last few hours of fasting Instead just do simple workouts of around 30 minutes This could include walking or yogaImprove your sleep schedule Ramadan often involves staying up late with friends and family However getting adequate hours of goodquality sleep is crucial in maintaining good healthIt also helps people avoid sleep deprivation which can negatively impact your hunger or craving levels Also sleep plays an important role in supporting immunity metabolism and regulating blood glucose levels which is essential when managing diabetesThere is never a challenge that cannot be managed with a dedicated action plan These four simple steps can help you feel healthy despite long hours of fastingThis story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed agencies Midday accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability trustworthiness reliability and data of the 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