Diabetic patients should fast only after consulting physicians to avoid medical complications: Experts

Diabetic patients should fast only after consulting physicians to avoid medical complications: Experts

Karachi: Religious scholars and diabetes specialists have emphasized that diabetic patients may face serious medical complications if they observe fasting without proper awareness and medical advice. They advised patients with diabetes to consult their physicians before fasting during the holy month of Ramadan to avoid potential health risks. Experts further stressed that patients who are medically advised not to fast should not feel guilty, as Islam grants exemptions to those suffering from illness.

These views were expressed during the “Diabetes and Ramadan Patient Awareness Program” organized by the National Institute of Diabetes and Endocrinology (NIDE) at the Ojha Campus of Dow University of Health Sciences. The program was chaired by Director NIDE, Dr. Musarrat Riaz. Speakers at the session included Dr. Syed Muhammad Hassan, Dr. Fareeduddin, Dr. Zareen Kiran, Dr. Nida Shakeel, dietitian Ms. Tehmina Rashid, and religious scholar Mufti Farukh Ahmed, while a large number of diabetic patients and their family members attended the program.

Addressing the seminar, Dr. Musarrat Riaz stated that the objective of the program was to provide accurate, scientific and practical guidance to diabetic patients regarding fasting during Ramadan, enabling them to make informed and safe decisions about their health. She highlighted the importance of collaboration among physicians, patients and religious scholars to dispel misconceptions related to diabetes and fasting.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Fareeduddin said that structured Ramadan dietary plans are now followed to guide patients on whether they can safely observe fasting. He explained that patients with extremely high or low blood glucose levels or a history of heart attack are generally advised against fasting, as it may worsen their condition.
Religious scholar Mufti Farukh Ahmed stated that if diabetes poses a serious threat to a patient’s life due to dangerously fluctuating blood sugar levels, they are religiously permitted not to fast. He cited Quranic injunctions granting exemptions to those whose health may be harmed.

Experts also explained that diabetic patients are categorized into different risk groups, and the decision to fast should be based on individual medical assessment. Guidance was provided on adjusting medication and insulin dosages during fasting, regular blood glucose monitoring, and preventing hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia.
Dietitian Ms. Tehmina Rashid emphasized the role of balanced nutrition during Ramadan. She advised patients not to skip suhoor and to consume fiber-rich foods, recommending the inclusion of lentils, vegetables, eggs, and yogurt for better glycemic control.
At the conclusion of the program, free medical check-ups, diagnostic tests and consultations related to diabetes were provided to patients.