Offer advice on good management of diabetes during Ramadan.

This can include:-

• Regularly test blood glucose levels – especially if feeling unwell during fasting
• Always carry glucose treatment
• Carry diabetes identification such as a medical bracelet
• NEVER stop using insulin – follow advice on doses and times of injections as agreed during the Pre-Ramadan assessment with their GP or diabetes nurse
• Drink plenty of water prior to fasting periods.
• Meals before and after fasting (Suhoor/Iftar)
  • Eat sensibly and healthily and drink plenty of water to keep well hydrated
  • At Suhoor:-
    • Eat starchy carbohydrates as release energy slowly e.g. basmati rice, oat based cereals
    • Semolina, chapattis help keep the glucose levels stable
  • At Iftar:-
    • Try to eat moderate portions. Avoid eating too much fried food or foods high in fat and sugar.  It will make blood sugar levels more difficult to control and potentially cause weight gain.
• Smelling food or even thinking about it during fasting periods can trigger the production of stomach acid, leading to heartburn. As medicines can't be taken during fasting, as a preventative measure consider taking an alginate antacid directly after the Suhoor meal.