Health watch: Diabetics should take extra care

Fasting and feasting during the holy month of Ramadan can cause serious harm to diabetics, a health practitioner has warned.

Almost 20 per cent of the UAE population is diabetic and the number may be much larger if undiagnosed cases are taken into account.

Dr Ghaida Kaddaha, Head of the Diabetes Unit at the Rashid Hospital, said it’s important for diabetics to be aware of the health complications.

"Diabetics break their fast with unhealthy food which makes their blood sugar level shoot up instantly. This swinging of sugar levels can cause serious harm to the body," she said.

While patients with Type 2 diabetics can fast if they take adequate precautions, patients who have Type 1 diabetes must avoid fasting, she added. "Sudden drop in blood sugar levels in a diabetic patient may lead to hypoglycaemic coma. Diabetics who fast should ensure they check their sugar levels, because sometimes the level drops drastically without any warning signs."

According to Ghaida, if the sugar level drops below 70, or if the person experiences excessive sweating or palpitation, he/she should immediately break the fast and consume something sweet.

While a sudden drop in sugar is harmful, a sudden rise can also play havoc with one’s health, said Dr Amerah Sadiya, Consultant Nutritionist at VLCC, a health management centre.

"Breaking the fast with small proportions of healthy foods is essential to prevent complications."

Dietary tips during Ramadan

Do’s

• Drink plenty of water: at least two litres between iftar and suhoor
• Eat fibrous foods and complex carbohydrates. Eat fruits, not juices
• After breaking the fast with dates and water, eat a small meal
• Later eat grilled meats for dinner
• Exercise for 20 to 30 minutes

Don’ts

• Do not eat large portions of fried foods or sweets
• Do not eat heavy meals
• Do not drink more than two cups of tea or coffee
• Do not end your suhoor with tea or coffee as tea has a dehydrating effect