Lecture on ‘Management of Diabetes during Ramadan’
Aligarh: Diabetics, intending to fast in the holy month of Ramadan without a disturbance in the blood sugar levels, were offered advice from proficient health experts during the Extension Lecture on ‘Management of Diabetes during Ramadan’ organised by the Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Diabetes and Endocrinology and Department of Medicine, Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College (JNMC), Aligarh Muslim University (AMU) at the conference hall of the Rajiv Gandhi Centre.
“Management of Diabetes Mellitus in Ramadan is a challenging task faced by all Physicians, Diabetologist and Endocrinologist,” said Prof Shadab A Khan, Chairman, Department of Medicine.
He shared tips on how diabetics can fast safely and the best times to test the blood sugar levels.
“This extension lecture programme is very beneficial and timely because Ramadan is just around the corner,” added Prof Shadab.
Dr Hamid Ashraf (Director, Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Diabetes and Endocrinology) pointed out: “It’s actually often the best time for us to encourage and nudge healthy behaviours, as people are more reflective and they also look at the health components of fasting”.
He emphasised that fasting in Ramadan has differential risks for different individuals with diabetes.
“Those with uncontrolled diabetes, recurrent episodes of low blood glucose, pregnant women and kidney problems are at high risk and it is best for them to avoid fasting; while people with well-controlled blood sugar, no episodes of low blood glucose and without the comorbid condition can fast,” he stressed.
“Over 150 million people all over the world fast during the month of Ramadan. Recent studies have shown that intermittent fasting is beneficial for health in normal people. It leads to improvement in sugar and cholesterol level,” said Dr Sarah Alam (Consultant Endocrinologist, Asian Hospital Faridabad).
She highlighted that fasting for people with diabetes mellitus can be associated with certain risks. It is advisable that the diabetics should undertake consultation with doctors before beginning the Ramadan fasts.
Consultations with health workers are necessary for diabetics intending to fast because they may need reduction or change in medications during Ramadan, said Dr Jamal Ahmad.
He also advised diabetic people to eat in moderation during Iftar and Suhoor and to avoid sugary beverages, fried foods and high carbohydrates diet.
Dr Jamal also recommended frequent checking of blood glucose during Ramadan.
Prof Rakesh Bhargav (Dean Faculty of Medicine) and Prof Shahid Siddiqui (Principal, JNMC) attended the extension lecture.
Dr M Uwais Ashraf conducted the programme. Dr Hamid Ashraf extended the vote of thanks.