Ramadan and Diabetes: Managing Your Health During Fasting

Advice and Information - 27 February 2025

Ramadan is a time for spiritual reflection, fasting from dawn to sunset, and engaging in religious practices for Muslims around the world. However, for individuals with diabetes, fasting requires extra care to manage blood sugar levels, hydration, and overall health, with the right preparation and resources, it is possible for those with diabetes to fast while prioritising their health and well-being.

Key tips for managing diabetes during Ramadan:

Ask your GP
Before fasting, individuals with diabetes should consult their GP or diabetes specialist. Your GP or specialist are able to provide specific advice for your condition and can potentially make adjustments to medications or insulin schedules. It’s important to note that in some cases, fasting may not be advisable, and professional advice is essential.

Monitor blood sugar levels regularly

Making sure you regularly check your blood sugar is essential, it is recommended to check blood glucose levels before and after fasting, during the non-fasting hours, and after meals. 

  1. Adjust medications appropriately
    Your healthcare provider will be able to help you adjust medication dosages to accommodate fasting hours. Medications, including insulin, may need adjustments to avoid the risk of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) or hyperglycemia (high blood sugar) during fasting.
  2. Stay hydrated
    Making sure you drink sufficient water during non-fasting hours, especially after Iftar (sunset) and before Suhoor (pre-dawn meal), is crucial to prevent dehydration, which can lead to elevated blood sugar levels and other health issues.
  3. Balanced meal choices
    Making sure to choose meals that are nutrient dense and balanced, including fiber rich vegetables, lean proteins, healthy fats, and whole grains in both Suhoor and Iftar meals. This will help stabilise your blood sugar levels and be able to provide sustained energy.
  4. Recognise signs of low and high blood sugar
    Being able to spot the signs of hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia is important. Symptoms of low blood sugar may include dizziness, sweating, and confusion, whilst high blood sugar might lead to excessive thirst or blurred vision. 

Helpful Resources in the City of London:

GP Services

Making sure you are able to see your GP is essential, if you don’t currently have a GP, you can find a GP local to you here: Find a GP

Diabetes UK
Diabetes UK provides a wide range of information, including fasting tips for those with diabetes, meal planning guides, and how to manage blood glucose levels during Ramadan: Diabetes and Ramadan | Fasting | Diabetes UK

Diabetes UK webinar on how to prepare for Ramadan: Preparation for Ramadan | Diabetes UK CPD

London Diabetes Network
The London Diabetes Network offers educational resources and support for people with diabetes, including how to manage fasting and adjust treatment during Ramadan. They can also help connect individuals with local diabetes support groups: Diabetes - NHS

You might also be interested in