Dubai The International Diabetes Federation (IDF) in conjunction with the Diabetes and Ramadan (DAR) international Alliance has brought out a detailed booklet – Diabetes and Ramadan, Practical Guidelines. The detailed document is based on practical guidelines by experts for people with Type 1 (T1DM) and Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM).

TIDM is a condition that is caused by little or no production of insulin, the blood glucose metabolising hormone in the pancreas. The patient requires insulin injections. T2DM is a condition induced by lifestyle factors such as obesity and insulin resistance that is triggered by poor eating habits, sedentary lifestyle, etc. This condition is usually managed by pills. However, in severe cases, insulin is required.

The booklet has an elaborate Ramadan Nutritonal Plan (RNP) and can be followed by diabetics easily and tells diabetics how to divide their meals equitably between the pre-dawn and dusk. It includes 10 principles that can assist diabetics have an optimal fast.

1) Plan your meals well so you have adequate amounts of calories with balanced proportion of macronutrients such as iron, zinc, magnesium, vitamins and minterals.

2) Distribute carbohydrate intake well so you do not suffer from low or high-blood sugar episdoes.

3) For a well-balanced meal, ensure 45-50 per cent of your calories comes from carbohydrates. But do not choose refined carbs; go for dense, low-glycaemic index (GI) carbs with high-fibre conent such as whole grains, legumes, fruits and vegetables.

4) About 20-30 per cent of your diet needs to comprise proteins. Choose lean meats, fish, dairy and tofu.

5) About 35 per cent of your daily nutrition should be from fat. Opt for mono- and polystaturated fats such as olive oil, avocado, etc, and avoid food high in saturated fat such as all fried items.

6) Avoid desserts as most of them are also high in saturated fats. Have a piece of fruit instead.

7) Hydration: This is important as water helps the body to regulate homeostatis and keep blood pressure steady. Divide your water requirement well between sunrise and sunset and avoid sweetened drinks as well as caffeinated drinks which cause dehydration.

8) Have your suhour as late as possible (between 3.30am to before dawn).

9) End your fast with dates and water. People are tempted to eat heavy food as they are hungry but this is to be avoided. Have a clear soup after prayers and a well-balanced dinner in about two hours.

10) Light exercise is advised such as a brisk walk, but keep a gap of 30 minutes after a heavy meal and going for a walk.

(To download: www.idf.org/guidleines/diabetes-in-ramadan. Information is free).