Take advice if you’re diabetic and celebrating Ramadan

Diabetes UK are offering advice and support to anybody living with diabetes who is preparing to fast during Ramadan, to help them manage their condition safely.

Choosing whether to fast is a personal choice and getting information ahead of Ramadan is very important – particularly for people living with diabetes as they are at increased risk of complications.

So, ahead of the holy month, which is due to begin on or around March 22 this year, Diabetes UK are encouraging anyone living with diabetes who is preparing for Ramadan to speak to their diabetes team and their Imam, to help them to decide what is best for them.

If you decide to fast during Ramadan, it’s a good idea to include more slowly absorbed foods, such as basmati rice and dhal, along with fruit and vegetables in your meal before starting each day’s fast.

It is also important to check your blood sugar levels more often than usual and if they drop too low, you should break your fast.

We advise people that if they are unwell or have any symptoms of Covid-19 they should not fast and call 111 for further advice.

For more information on diabetes and Ramadan visit: diabetes.org.uk/ramadan

Jill Steaton
South East Coast and London Head, Diabetes UK