Diabetic, pregnant? Consult your doctor before fasting

Abu Dhabi - Diabetic patients and pregnant women need to consult their doctor prior to fasting, to see if fasting can be achieved or not

As we draw closer to the Holy Month of Ramadan that begins next week, medical experts in the UAE are urging those suffering from health conditions to be aware and vigilant of the risks of fasting during the holy month.
Dr Arif Maldar, specialist internal medicine and deputy chief officer, Universal Hospital, told Khaleej Times that those with chronic cases, including diabetes, must seek medical advice before giving fasting the green light. "Diabetes in the UAE is very common, with a higher incidence here than globally. It's mainly due to the lifestyle: that is why doctors call it 'a lifestyle disease,' because of the unhealthy diet and lack of exercise.
"What is important is those with diabetes need to consult their doctor prior to fasting, because they need to see how their diabetes will be affected by not eating or drinking for around 15 hours."
Dr Maldar pointed out that those who rely on medication and insulin need to first ask their doctor whether or not fasting could be achieved, and what adjustments must be made with their dosages. "These are not general adjustments they could just decide themselves.
"Diabetics need to know what adjustments in their treatment need to be met if they are able to fast." He noted that because diabetics are prone to kidney and heart diseases, the blood supply is reduced during fasting, which causes further complications to their health. "The doctor will decide which medication or insulin needs to be stopped in the morning and will adjust this at night after Iftar, according to the sugar levels - depending on whether it is controlled or uncontrolled diabetes.
"What is different about diabetes in the UAE is that its incidence is more common in early ages; it is rising even in teenagers as young as 15."
Dr Maldar's tips for those who are fasting is increasing liquids, particularly water and fresh juices from Iftar until Suhoor to prevent dehydration. He also noted that fried food should be avoided, and instead foods that are steamed, boiled, baked or grilled should be preferred.
"Sugary and fried food will cause dehydration; so eat meals loaded with fiber, fruits and vegetables."
He noted that for those who have a sweet tooth, it is best to opt for milk-based desserts. "Those suffering from acidic food need to avoid caffeine and drinks that cause hyper acidity, which could cause greater hunger and gastritis, as well as swelling in the stomach."
Fasting during pregnancy
Rahma Ali, clinical dietician at Burjeel Hospital Abu Dhabi, said pregnant women must also consult their doctors prior to fasting. "Most women that have a healthy pregnancy can fast during Ramadan, but they need consultation beforehand."
She noted that drinking at least 10-12 glasses of water from Iftar to Suhoor is crucial, as well as eating meals rich in vitamins, minerals and leafy green vegetables. "I see a lot of pregnant patients fasting without complications. However, those that have complicated pregnancies, or have severe vomiting, especially in the early stages of pregnancy, should not fast."
jasmine@khaleejtimes.com