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Learn about a diabetes diet and managing insulin-dependent diabetes during Ramadan. Get expert tips on Ramadan fasting, diabetic ketoacidosis, and more. | Meri Sehat

Type 2 Diabetes And Ramadan

Iqra Mazhar

Type 2 Diabetes, Exercise, And Ramadan

Introduction

Your body needs insulin to be able to use glucose for energy. When your body doesn&rsquo;t use insulin efficiently, it leads to high blood sugar levels, which is the case for <a href="https://merisehat.pk/disease/diabetes-type-1-and-2">Type 2 diabetes.&nbsp;</a> 
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One of the key ways to manage type 2 diabetes is through lifestyle changes, including exercise. However, during Ramadan, it can be challenging to exercise while fasting from sunrise to sunset. 
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This article explores the benefits of exercise for type 2 diabetes and how to manage diabetes type 2 while fasting. 
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Exercise Benefits

<a href="https://merisehat.pk/article/best-exercises-for-diabetics-in-ramadan">Exercise </a>helps lower blood sugar levels by increasing insulin sensitivity. This leads to improved glycemic control and a reduced risk of complications associated with type 2 diabetes, such as cardiovascular disease and neuropathy. 
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Exercise has other health benefits, too, including weight loss, and increased muscle strength and flexibility. It can also improve mood and reduce stress, which are important for overall health and well-being. 
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Exercise Types

<ul>
	<li style="text-align:justify">Low-Impact Aerobic Exercises: Walking, cycling, or swimming are low-impact aerobic exercises that you can opt for during Ramadan. These exercises improve cardiovascular health, reduce stress, and lower blood sugar levels. 
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li style="text-align:justify"><a href="https://merisehat.pk/article/yoga-a-life-changing-approach">Yoga</a>: Yoga improves flexibility and reduces stress. Mindful yoga, a type of meditation, can especially be a good option during Ramadan. 
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li style="text-align:justify">Pilates: Pilates focuses on core strength and balance. It can be beneficial if you also struggle with back pain or posture problems. Moreover, it helps maintain muscle mass. The best thing about Pilates is you can do it anywhere, at your home, office, or gym and, thus, is an easy workout for you to stay active during Ramadan. 
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li style="text-align:justify">Interval Training: Interval training involves short bursts of high-intensity exercise followed by periods of rest. However, during Ramadan, it&rsquo;s better to switch to a workout that isn&rsquo;t so intense, i.e., it has more rest time and lower reps to prevent weight gain and muscle loss. Also, make sure you do NOT skip the warm-up and cool-down routines to avoid blood pressure drops. 
	&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

NOTE: It&rsquo;s not advised to start a new exercise routine during Ramadan. If your doctor allows you to exercise during Ramadan, be careful not to overexert yourself. Any vigorous physical activity should be done after iftar. And always monitor blood sugar levels before and after exercise. 
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Management During Ramadan

If you have type 2 diabetes and want to fast during the holy month, you may need to modify your diabetes control strategy. Speak to a doctor before Ramadan to make sure it is safe for you to fast. 
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First and foremost, you will need to monitor your blood sugar levels regularly, especially before and after the fast. This will make it easier for your doctor to spot any spike in blood sugar levels and change the dosage of insulin or other medications as necessary. 
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Secondly, there&rsquo;s no reason for you to not enjoy the Ramadan delicacies. However, remember to eat healthy, balanced meals that include complex carbohydrates, protein, and healthy fats. Also, you can avoid a medical emergency by not consuming sugary drinks or foods. 
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Last but not the least, it&rsquo;s important for you to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water and other fluids after you break your fast. 
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Conclusion

Exercise is essential to manage type 2 diabetes because it improves glycemic regulation, cardiovascular health, and general well-being. However, it can be difficult while fasting. Consult your doctor to know what fits your condition.
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[1] Alkandari JR, Maughan RJ, Roky R, Aziz AR, Karli U. The implications of Ramadan fasting for human health and well-being. Journal of Sports Sciences. 2012 Jul 1;30(sup1):S9-19.

Syeda Qurat-ul-Ain

<a href="https://merisehat.pk/disease/diabetes-type-1-and-2">Type 2 diabetes</a> is a chronic condition that affects the body&#39;s ability to produce and use insulin effectively. This can lead to high blood sugar levels, which can cause serious health complications such as heart disease,<a href="https://merisehat.pk/disease/chronic-kidney-disease"> kidney disease</a>, and nerve damage. 
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Diet

One of the most important aspects of managing type 2 diabetes is healthy eating. This means your diet should include a variety of nutritious foods in appropriate portions, including: 
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<ul>
	<li style="text-align:justify">Whole Grains (e.g., brown rice and whole wheat bread)</li>
	<li style="text-align:justify">Fruits &amp; Vegetables (e.g., leafy greens, berries, and carrots)</li>
	<li style="text-align:justify">Lean Protein (e.g., fish and chicken)</li>
	<li style="text-align:justify">Good Fats (e.g., nuts and seeds) 
	&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

Healthy eating also means that you should avoid foods that can cause spikes in blood sugar levels. These include: 
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<ul>
	<li style="text-align:justify">Sugary Foods and Drinks (e.g., chocolates, carbonated drinks, and fruit juice)</li>
	<li style="text-align:justify">Processed Foods (e.g., fried items and frozen items)</li>
	<li style="text-align:justify">Refined Carbohydrates (e.g., white bread and pasta) 
	&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

It can be difficult for you to manage your blood sugar levels during Ramadan. Fasting can cause blood sugar levels to drop too low (hypoglycemia) or to rise too high (hyperglycemia). 
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Hypoglycemia causes dizziness, confusion, and shakiness. Hyperglycemia, on the other hand, is identified by increased thirst, frequent urination, and blurred vision. 
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It&rsquo;s recommended that you: 
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<ul>
	<li style="text-align:justify">Talk to Your Healthcare Provider: Before Ramadan begins, talk to your doctor about your fasting plans. Your doctor may adjust your medication and/or insulin dosages accordingly for the month. 
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li style="text-align:justify">Monitor Your Blood Sugar Levels: Do it as frequently as possible during Ramadan, especially before and after meals. This helps your doctor identify any spike in blood sugar levels and possible causes so they can adjust your diet and medication accordingly. 
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li style="text-align:justify">Eat Healthy Meals: Focus on eating healthy, balanced meals to make up for the hours you spend fasting. This means your meals should have a fair portion of healthy fats, lean proteins, and complex carbohydrates. 
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li style="text-align:justify">Stay Hydrated: Dehydration can cause blood sugar levels to rise, which can lead to hyperglycemia. Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated during the day. 
	&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

Managing type 2 diabetes during Ramadan requires careful planning and monitoring. By following these tips, you can fast during Ramadan while avoiding complications such as diabetic ketoacidosis.

Remember, it is important to prioritize your health and seek guidance from your doctor whenever necessary. 
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[1] Ibrahim M, Al Magd MA, Annabi FA, Assaad-Khalil S, Ba-Essa EM, Fahdil I, Karadeniz S, Meriden T, Misha AA, Pozzilli P, Shera S. Recommendations for management of diabetes during Ramadan: update 2015. BMJ Open Diabetes Research and Care. 2015 Jun 1;3(1):e000108.