Fasting during Ramadan is an important religious practice for Muslims. However, for people with diabetes, fasting can be challenging. Changes in eating schedules and food intake can affect blood sugar levels, increasing the risk of low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) or high blood sugar (hyperglycemia).

According to the International Diabetes Federation (IDF) and the Diabetes and Ramadan (DAR) International Alliance, people with diabetes can fast if their condition is stable and under medical supervision. So, how can diabetics fast safely?

Who Can Fast?

Not all people with diabetes should fast. Here are some conditions to consider before fasting:

1. Consult Your Doctor
   Before fasting, diabetics should check with their doctor to make sure it is safe for them.

2. Well-Controlled Blood Sugar
   Fasting may be safe if blood sugar levels are stable and not too high or too low.

3. No Frequent Hypoglycemia
   If someone often experiences low blood sugar (below 70 mg/dL), fasting can be dangerous and should be avoided.

4. No Serious Complications
   People with complications such as heart disease, kidney problems, or nerve damage should be very careful and consult a doctor before fasting.

Tips for Safe Fasting

If your doctor allows you to fast, follow these important tips:

1. Monitor Your Blood Sugar Regularly

Checking blood sugar is important, even when fasting. You should check:

• Before suhoor (pre-dawn meal)
• Before iftar (breaking the fast)
• Two hours after iftar
• Before bedtime

To make this easier, diabetics can use the GlucoSure AutoCode Blood Glucose Monitoring System. This device helps measure blood sugar quickly and accurately without manual coding.

Why Choose the GlucoSure AutoCode Blood Glucose Monitoring System?

• GlucoSure AutoCode Blood Glucose Monitoring System
• No Manual Coding: This reduces errors and makes testing easier.
• Small Blood Sample: The GlucoSure AutoCode Blood Glucose Monitoring System requires only 0.6 µL of blood, making it more comfortable to use.
• Fast Results: Provides readings in just 6 seconds.
• Wide Measurement Range: GlucoSure AutoCode Blood Glucose Monitoring System can measure blood sugar between 20–600 mg/dL (1.1–33.3 mmol/L).
• Memory Storage: The GlucoSure AutoCode Blood Glucose Monitoring System can store up to 300 test results with date and time.
• Certified & Safe: Approved by the Indonesian Ministry of Health and ideal for at-home monitoring.

2. Eat the Right Foods

• Choose complex carbohydrates such as brown rice, whole wheat bread, or oatmeal for longer-lasting energy.
• Eat lean protein from fish, chicken, eggs, and nuts.
• Avoid sugary and fatty foods that can cause blood sugar spikes.

3. Don’t Skip Suhoor (Pre-Dawn Meal)

• Suhoor helps keep blood sugar stable during fasting.
• Eat foods rich in fiber and protein to stay full longer.
• Avoid sugary foods that can cause blood sugar to rise and drop quickly.

4. Stop Fasting If Blood Sugar Becomes Unstable

If your blood sugar falls below 70 mg/dL or rises above 300 mg/dL, stop fasting immediately to avoid serious complications.

5. Manage Physical Activity

Avoid heavy exercise during fasting to prevent extreme drops in blood sugar.

Conclusion

People with diabetes can fast if they meet certain medical conditions and monitor their blood sugar carefully. Consulting a doctor before fasting is very important to ensure safety.

By planning properly and using GlucoSure AutoCode, diabetics can fast safely and comfortably during Ramadan.

References:

• International Diabetes Federation (IDF) & Diabetes and Ramadan (DAR) International Alliance (2023). Diabetes and Ramadan: Practical Guidelines.
• American Diabetes Association (ADA) (2023). Diabetes Medical Care Standards.
• Indonesian Ministry of Health (2024). Diabetes Management Guidelines for Ramadan.