Individuals with diabetes are advised to consult with a physician before deciding to fast as they may be exposed to increased health risk. The most significant of these dangers is the severe rise of their blood sugar percentage.
The symptoms of high blood sugar can include severe hunger, fatigue, exhaustion, dizziness, headache, blurred vision, shaking hands, sweating, and increased heart rate. If a patient neglects these symptoms, they may be exposed to a hypoglycemic coma. Patients experiencing these symptoms are advised to immediately break their fast by drinking a sugary juice and to seek medical attention so they can undergo observation.
Type 2 diabetics who have poorly managed blood glucose levels are generally advised not to fast. Others advised not to fast include elderly patients with Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes who take insulin, children under the age of puberty, pregnant women who take insulin and breastfeeding mothers, whether they have Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes, and those who are ill or frail.
Diabetics who are cleared to fast by their healthcare team are advised to drink plenty of water between Iftar and Suhoor, avoid over indulging in sweets and fats, check their blood sugar regularly, and immediately break their fast if they feel unwell or if their blood sugar drops below 60mg.
