Diabetics must consult doctors for fasting

Muslims suffering from diabetes should consult their doctor on whether they can fast during Ramadan, which starts next week, according to a Saudi doctor.

Dr Nassir Al Jahni, a general medicine consultant and head of the diabetes committee in the Western Red Sea port of Jeddah, said at least 140 million people are suffering from diabetes in the Islamic countries.

He said Ramadan this year involves very hot days and long fasting hours, stretching at least 15 hours in the Gulf, adding that this makes it very difficult for sick people.

“People suffering from diabetes should seek medical advice to see if they can fast in Ramadan.

“This depends on the type of diabetes they have and the number of medicine dosage they have every day,” he said, quoted by the Saudi daily ‘Sabq’.

He said iftar, the evening meal in Ramadan, often involves high levels of fat, carbohydrates and sugar in such foods as date, juice, sweets and fries.

“These types of food will increase weight and the sugar level in blood and this will increase the suffering of those who have diabetes,” he said.

“My advice to those who are suffering from advanced level of diabetes is that they should not fast during Ramadan. I mean those who rely heavily on insulin dosages and those who are suffering from diseases that are associated with diabetes.”

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