Fasting with Diabetes or Hypertension?

Every Ramadan, millions of Muslims around the world fast during daylight hours, for 30 days. Many of those observing Holy Month are living with medical conditions that may be adversely affected by a period of fasting, so it is always important to discuss with your doctor to ensure that you can observe Ramadan fully, without affecting your health.

Diabetes and hypertension (high blood pressure) are two of the most common medical conditions seen in adults in the UAE, with around 16% suffering from diabetes, and as many as 30% living with hypertension. We take a look at what effect fasting may have on these conditions and why you should always consult your doctor.

What happens to your body when you fast?

After a period of around 8 hours without food, your body begins to take energy from its own glucose and fat stores. It first turns to the liver for glucose reserves, and enters a state called ‘gluconeogenesis’. When this runs out, the body then creates its own glucose using fat stores.

Many believe that there are health benefits associated with fasting. Whilst most of these are only seen with fasts of more than 24 hours, shorter fasts can assist with weight loss and lowering cholesterol. But if you are living with a metabolic condition such as diabetes or hypertension, extra precautions must be taken.

Diabetes and fasting

If you have diabetes and plan to fast, you must always tell your doctor in advance. There is a danger that your blood sugar levels will become too low, leading to a hypoglycemic episode, or too high, both of which can be extremely dangerous.

Your doctor will discuss and revise your medications throughout Holy Month, and highlight the importance of regularly testing your blood, as going without food for a long period affects your sugar levels. If you take insulin, the dosage will change and usually, patients are advised to take their insulin before fast is broken, when the main meal of the day is eaten. Your doctor will also discuss the importance of carrying medication with you at all times, as well as carrying something like dates or a sugary drink in case you experience a drop in blood sugar levels.

What you eat and when you eat are important considerations for diabetics during Ramadan. To avoid dramatic swings in blood sugar levels, doctors stress the importance of understanding which foods contain carbohydrates and convert to sugar. Aim to consume lots of refined grains as they contain fiber, which helps to regulate sugar levels, as well as proteins, which convert to starch rather than sugar. Aim to have 2-3 servings of fresh fruit (rather than juice), lots of vegetables, and moderate dairy to 2-3 portions as this can break down to sugar. Reduce fatty foods, and things like sugary drinks and fruit juices which will cause a spike in sugar levels. It is also very important to stay hydrated between iftar and suhoor times and consume at least 2 liters of water a day.

Hypertension and fasting

Managing hypertension while fasting can be challenging. With changes to your eating and sleeping habits, blood pressure levels can fluctuate dramatically. Talk to your doctor in advance, as with effective management of lifestyle and any medications you may need to take, fasting can be done safely and hypertension symptoms can be managed.

Staying hydrated during a period of fasting is very important for anyone with high blood pressure. Try to consume at least 2-3 liters of water throughout the night. Avoid sugary drinks which will cause blood sugar levels to spike and avoid caffeinated drinks as they can cause dehydration.

As with diabetic patients, what and when you eat during Ramadan is very important to maintain overall health. Work with your doctor to devise a healthy eating plan, which avoids high fat foods and includes lots of fruit and vegetables, and other foods which can help to control high blood pressure. Your doctor will also advise other things you can do to manage your hypertension, such as avoiding smoking and increasing exercise levels.

People living with hypertension should always be aware of the symptoms of their condition, such as headaches and dizziness, and must continue to attend regular check-ups to ensure it is being managed effectively.

A healthy Ramadan

Following proper medical advice is essential for anyone planning to fast, who suffers from diabetes or hypertension. This Ramadan, Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi is offering specialist evening clinics to help you observe Holy Month in a healthy way.

Ramadan Evening Clinics

This Ramadan, we are here for you day and night. Throughout Holy Month, we will extend outpatient clinic hours, offering you the best care, when you need it.

Learn More