Managing Insulin For Diabetes During Ramadan

According to international research, nearly 35% of the world's adult Muslims suffer from diabetes. Consequently, during the holy month of Ramadan, over 100 million diabetic patients fast annually. Many of these diabetic patients require insulin to control their condition.

Firstly, let me clarify that both my parents are long-term diabetic patients who require insulin for managing their diabetes. Due to familial reasons, I have considerable experience regarding diabetes. Therefore, there shouldn't be any confusion or misconceptions in this post.



Use of insulin in diabetes during Ramadan

During Ramadan, there are significant changes in our daily dietary habits and meal timings. Those who need insulin to manage their diabetes often experience a decrease in blood sugar levels or hypoglycemia. Hence, it's crucial to manage diabetes before starting fasting by adjusting medication or insulin dosage under the guidance of a professional doctor.

A majority of diabetic patients who require insulin typically use pre-mixed insulin twice a day. For them, if diabetes is well-controlled, they should take their entire morning insulin dose during Iftar time and half of the evening isulin dose during Suhoor time. This is the general rule. However, if a patient faces any medical issues, consulting a doctor is essential.


Some individuals use short-acting insulin three times a day. These patients should take their morning dose of insulin during Iftar, the afternoon dose during mealtime (if they eat), and half of the evening dose during Suhoor. If someone takes a higher amount of insulin during the evening, they should reduce the dose during Suhoor. If insulin is taken at a specific time before sleeping, the same time should be maintained.


Diabetic patients should occasionally check their blood sugar levels at home using a glucometer during Ramadan. This helps ensure that fasting isn't affecting their blood sugar levels. Islamic Foundation and various Islamic scholars provide guidance on when to check blood sugar levels and also ensured that checking blood sugar will not effect fasting (Roja). The glucose measured before Iftar provides directions similar to fasting or on an empty stomach. If glucose is measured two hours after Iftar, it guides regarding the sugar level after eating. If the blood sugar level before Iftar is close to 4 or slightly above, the insulin dose should be reduced from the previous dose. If someone takes tablets along with insulin, the dosage and timing of the tablets should also be adjusted.



If it's late to wake up for Suhoor or if someone cannot eat, they can take Roja without taking insulin if necessary. Under unhealthy conditions or severe illness, any fasting should be avoided. Never determine insulin dosage by yourself without a doctor's advice, even if someone advises stopping insulin or changing the dosage limit. Always consult a doctor before taking any medicine other than insulin.

Thats all pals. Feel free to comment on this post regarding insulin administration for diabetic patients during Ramadan. Thank you, and stay well always.

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