ARE YOU READY TO TAKE CHARGE OF YOUR HEALTH AND THRIVE WITH DIABETES?
SugarSmart Living a unique well-being program designed exclusively for people living with diabetes. This month the theme is Ramadan & Diabetes.
Fasting during Ramadan as a diabetic requires careful planning, medical supervision, and lifestyle modifications. A team approach involving an endocrinologist, diabetes educator, dietitian, and physiotherapist ensures a safe and healthy Ramadan experience. So join us to Connect, learn, and engage with a supportive community as we dive into practical tips, empowering advice.
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RAMADAN & DIABETES
Ramadan is a sacred time for millions of Muslims worldwide, involving fasting from dawn to sunset. However, for individuals with diabetes, fasting during Ramadan presents unique challenges. While Islamic teachings permit exemptions for those with health conditions, many diabetic patients still choose to fast. SugarSmart Living is a comprehensive guide with advice from healthcare professionals, including an endocrinologist, diabetes educator, dietitian, and physiotherapist, to help individuals with diabetes observe Ramadan safely.
WHAT’S ON THE AGENDA?
Health Talk by the Endocrinologist
Have your questions answered by our expert endocrinologist who'll share the latest in diabetes care and management
“Living Well with Diabetes” by Diabetic Educator
Discover tips and strategies to manage your health in everyday life making living with diabetes easier and more enjoyable.
“Road map to healthy eating” by a Dietitian
Get valuable dietary advice tailored to diabetes, with practical tips on meals and nutrition
“Healing & Movement” by a Physiotherapist
Participate in guided exercises led by a physiotherapist specially designed to improve mobility, strength and overall wellness for those managing diabetes.
EVENT OFFERINGS
- Screening for Random Blood Sugar & Cholesterol
- Healthy Snacks Giveaways
- Exclusive Health Packages for attendees
SHOULD YOU FAST?
- Before Ramadan, schedule a visit with your endocrinologist to assess your diabetes control and determine if fasting is safe for you. Key considerations include: Type of diabetes (Type 1, Type 2, or gestational diabetes)
- Current blood sugar control (HbA1c levels, frequency of hypoglycaemia or hyperglycaemia)
- Use of insulin or medications that may cause hypoglycaemia
- Gestational Diabetes: Pregnant women with diabetes are generally advised not to fast due to the risks to both mother and baby. Consult your doctor for personalized advice.
- POTENTIAL RISK OF FASTING
- Hypoglycaemia (Low Blood Sugar): Occurs due to prolonged fasting without food intake.
- Hyperglycaemia (High Blood Sugar): Can result from excessive eating at Suhoor (pre-dawn meal) or Iftar (meal to break the fast).
- Dehydration & Electrolyte Imbalance: Common due to reduced fluid intake. Dehydration can worsen diabetes complications.
- Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA): A dangerous condition for insulin-dependent diabetics.
MEDICAL ADJUSTMENTS DURING FASTING
- Timing of Medications: Take medications as prescribed during non-fasting hours. Never skip or double doses without consulting your doctor.
- Oral Medications: Some medications may need dose reduction or change in timing.
- Insulin Therapy: Insulin regimen may need adjustment to avoid hypoglycaemia, such as reducing long-acting insulin and modifying rapid-acting insulin doses.
- Continuous Glucose Monitoring: Using CGM or frequent fingerstick testing is essential to prevent complications. Especially before suhoor (pre-dawn meal), during the day, and after iftar (evening meal).
- KNOW WHEN TO BREAK YOUR FAST
- Breaking the fast is mandatory if:
- Blood sugar drops below 70 mg/dL (3.9 mmol/L).
- Blood sugar rises above 300 mg/dL (16.7 mmol/L).
- Symptoms of severe hypoglycaemia (dizziness, confusion, shaking) or dehydration occur.
Doctors
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NMC Royal Hospital Sharjah
Welcome to NMC Royal Hospital Sharjah, a distinguished tertiary-level healthcare institution in the heart of the United Arab Emirates. Established in 1981, it proudly holds the distinction of being the first and largest private general hospital in the UAE, shaping the landscape of local healthcare over the past 43 years. NMC Royal Hospital Sharjah has emerged as a trusted healthcare provider, offering high-quality and personalized care that resonates with patients seeking excellence.