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Don’t overindulge in food during Eid

Overindulgence during Eid Al Fitr after a month of self-control can lead to health problems, especially if one suffers from various ailments, said a top Dubai Health Authority (DHA) official.

Dr M. Hamed Farooqi, Director of the Dubai Diabetes Centre, said, “Overloading a body that is used to the Ramadan timetable can create health problems and is not advisable. Since the body has tuned itself to the timetable of Ramadan, suddenly overloading with food, especially sweets, is going to cause a major problem.

A family enjoying delicacies during last year’s Eid holidays in a Dubai park. — KT file photo

“Since sweets and sugar-containing foods and drinks are central to the Eid celebrations, a significant elevation in blood sugar levels is seen quite often. A healthy body may handle that with some effort but if there is some ailment in the background, it can result in serious health complications.”

Dr Farooqi said that by and large, gastric issues such as nausea, vomiting and indigestion are the most common symptoms bringing in people to their healthcare providers. In case of people with diabetes, medical emergencies due to very high blood sugar levels are frequent in the days following Eid.

“This is especially common with people who have diabetes, since they have put their pancreas, into overdrive. The risk is higher with people who suffer from type 1 diabetes.”

He also said that it is, therefore, highly advisable to control both the quantity as well as timing of the food. “As we know, the festival lasts three days so it is advisable to eat in small portions more frequently during the day as you are more likely to burn those calories. Keep a close eye on the sugar content of the items you choose to eat, particularly if you are a diabetic. In case of people having high blood pressure, do avoid too much salt intake. Fried foods as well as other dietary items containing fats should be kept to a minimum.”

In terms of medications, Dr Farooqi said, “As we resume our usual routine, the timing and dosage of medications also need to revert to the pre-Ramadan schedule and this should be done as per your doctor’s advice. It would be better if the blood sugar levels are monitored more often than usual in this phase of transition.”

Similarly, the dietary patterns need to be normalised in a gradual manner. “Making the right choices in terms of food and trying to keep these choices as simple as possible go a long way in making this transition smooth and successful.”

Dr Farooqi concluded by saying that the Holy month of Ramadan teaches one self-control and thus Eid is also a time to put that learning to practice.

asmaalizain@khaleejtimes.com