Diabetes and Fasting in Ramadan: A Muslim’s Simple Guide

Bismillah ar-Rahman ar-Raheem (In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful)

Dear Muslim brothers and sisters, Ramadan is our blessed month of worship and fasting. However, if you have diabetes, you need to be extra careful while fasting. Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: “Your body has a right over you.” This guide will help you stay safe while earning Allah’s rewards.

Main Risks for Diabetic Muslims During Fasting

1. Low Blood Sugar (Hypoglycemia)

• You might feel weak, dizzy, or shaky
• This can happen when you fast for many hours
• It can be dangerous if not treated quickly
• Signs include sweating, confusion, and fast heartbeat

2. High Blood Sugar (Hyperglycemia)

• This happens when you eat too much sweet food at iftar
• Not drinking enough water can make it worse
• Missing your medicine can cause problems
• Watch for increased thirst and frequent need to use the bathroom

3. Dehydration

• Long hours without water can be harmful
• Your body needs water to work properly
• This is especially important in hot weather
• Can make you feel tired and worsen your diabetes

Islamic Guidance and Your Health

Allah (SWT) says in the Holy Quran: Allah intends for you ease and does not intend for you hardship (2:185)

If fasting is too difficult for your health, remember:

• Allah has given sick people permission not to fast
• You can make up missed fasts later when your health is better
• You can give fidya (feeding the poor) if you cannot fast at all
• Consult both your doctor and Islamic scholar for guidance

How to Stay Safe While Fasting

At Suhoor (Pre-dawn meal):

1. Eat slowly digesting foods
   • Whole grain bread
   • Oatmeal
   • Beans
   • Vegetables
2. Check your blood sugar
3. Take your medicines as advised by your doctor
4. Drink plenty of water

During the Fast:

1. Test your blood sugar if you feel unwell
2. Break your fast if sugar goes too low or too high
3. Keep diabetes emergency supplies with you
4. Rest when possible and avoid hot sun

At Iftar (Breaking fast):

1. Break fast with dates and water
2. Wait 15-20 minutes before main meal
3. Avoid very sweet desserts
4. Test blood sugar before eating
5. Take medicines on time

When to Stop Fasting Immediately

Break your fast if:

• Blood sugar drops below 70 mg/dl (3.9 mmol/L)
• Blood sugar goes above 300 mg/dl (16.7 mmol/L)
• You feel very unwell
• You get confused or dizzy
• You feel dehydrated

Important Duas for Health

1. When breaking fast: Allahumma inni laka sumtu wa bika aamantu wa ‘ala rizqika aftartu (O Allah, I fasted for You, I believe in You, and I break my fast with Your sustenance)
2. For good health: Allahumma ‘aafini fi badani” (O Allah, grant my body health)

Final Advice

Remember these beautiful words from the Quran:
Allah does not burden a soul beyond its capacity (2:286)

Taking care of your health is also a form of worship. If you cannot fast safely, you can still earn rewards through:

• Giving charity
• Extra prayers
• Reading Quran
• Helping others
• Making dua

May Allah make it easy for all diabetic Muslims during Ramadan and accept our worship. Ameen.

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