Experts advise diabetic patients to seek medical guidance before fasting

Doctors and religious scholars stress informed decision-making, warn against health risks of unsupervised fasting

KARACHI: As Ramadan approaches, religious scholars and diabetes specialists have warned that fasting without proper guidance can pose serious health risks for patients with diabetes. They stressed that those medically advised not to fast should not feel guilty, as Islamic teachings provide exemptions for those whose health may be harmed.

The caution came during the “Diabetes and Ramadan Patient Awareness Program” organised by the National Institute of Diabetes and Endocrinology (NIDE) at Dow University of Health Sciences’ Ojha Campus. The event was chaired by NIDE Director Dr Musarrat Riaz and attended by numerous diabetic patients along with their family members.

Speaking at the seminar, Dr Musarrat Riaz said the programme aimed to provide “accurate, scientific, and practical guidance” to diabetic patients regarding fasting. She highlighted the need for collaboration among physicians, patients, and religious scholars to dispel misconceptions about diabetes and fasting.

Dr Fareeduddin noted that structured Ramadan dietary plans are now widely used to guide patients on whether fasting is safe for them. He explained that individuals with extremely high or low blood sugar levels, or those with a history of heart attack, are generally advised against fasting, as it may worsen their condition.

Religious scholar Mufti Farukh Ahmed emphasised that Islam permits exemptions for those whose health may be endangered. “If diabetes poses a serious threat to a patient’s life due to dangerously fluctuating blood sugar, they are religiously allowed not to fast,” he said, citing Quranic guidance.

Experts outlined the categorisation of diabetic patients into different risk groups and stressed that decisions regarding fasting should be based on individual medical assessment. They provided guidance on adjusting medication and insulin dosages, monitoring blood glucose regularly, and preventing hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia.

Dietitian Tehmina Rashid highlighted the importance of balanced nutrition during Ramadan. She advised patients not to skip suhoor and recommended fiber-rich foods, including lentils, vegetables, eggs, and yogurt, for better glycemic control.

The programme concluded with free medical check-ups, diagnostic tests, and consultations offered to attending patients, helping them plan for a safe and healthy Ramadan, according to a press release.

(The news report was originally published by Social Track, Karachi)