The answer, however, cannot simply be “yes” or “no.” It depends on several medical and individual factors.
Ramadan is a deeply spiritual month, and patients who are unable to fast often feel emotional distress. Physicians therefore strive to balance the desire to perform this cherished act of worship with the need to protect patients’ health and lives.
In this context, therapeutic nutrition specialist Dr. Alaa Abdelrazek explains that fasting can be a great act of worship when practiced with awareness—but it can turn into a health risk if warning signs are ignored or common dietary mistakes are made.
Is Fasting Safe for Diabetics and Hypertensive Patients?
Dr. Alaa emphasizes that not every fast is safe for every patient. Recognizing personal health limitations is not a weakness of faith—it is wisdom and a legitimate religious concession.
For patients with diabetes or high blood pressure to fast safely, several essential guidelines must be followed, along with careful monitoring of warning signs.
Common Mistakes During Ramadan
Many patients unknowingly expose themselves to serious risks by making common dietary errors.
Mistakes at Iftar (Breaking the Fast)
Drinking large amounts of sweetened juices
Eating desserts before the main meal
Eating too quickly without pauses
Mistakes at Suhoor (Pre-Dawn Meal)
Relying on salty foods such as salted cheese and pickles
Focusing only on refined carbohydrates like white bread and pasta
Neglecting protein
The result?
Blood sugar fluctuations, unstable blood pressure, intense thirst, and fatigue throughout the day.
Can Diabetics Eat Ramadan Sweets?
One of the most common Ramadan questions is whether diabetics can eat traditional sweets.
The answer is: Yes, but under strict conditions.
Conditions:
Eat only a small piece
Consume it two hours after iftar
Do not eat sweets daily
Prefer homemade desserts
Important Precautions:
Never eat sweets on an empty stomach
Do not combine multiple types in one day
Avoid pairing sweets with sugary drinks
As Dr. Alaa states clearly:
“Timing and portion size are the secret.”
The issue is not the sweet itself—but the timing, frequency, and quantity.
The Ideal Suhoor for Diabetics and Hypertensive Patients
A balanced suhoor helps stabilize energy levels, reduce thirst, and maintain steady blood sugar and blood pressure.
Recommended Components:
Protein: Eggs, Greek yogurt, or moderate portions of beans
Slow-digesting carbohydrates: Whole-grain bread or oats
Healthy fats: A tablespoon of olive oil or a handful of nuts
Vegetables and adequate water
Benefits:
Prevents hypoglycemia (low blood sugar)
Reduces thirst
Stabilizes sugar and blood pressure levels
The Ideal Iftar
One or two dates with water
Pause for Maghrib prayer before continuing the meal
A light soup
A main dish containing: protein, plenty of vegetables, and moderate carbohydrates
This structure prevents sudden sugar spikes and overeating.
When Does Fasting Become Dangerous?
There are moments when breaking the fast becomes medically necessary—not optional.
A Diabetic Patient Must Break the Fast Immediately If:
Symptoms of hypoglycemia appear (dizziness, cold sweat, trembling, blurred vision, severe hunger)
Blood sugar rises significantly with extreme thirst and exhaustion
Blood sugar reading drops below 70 mg/dL or rises above 300 mg/dL
Breaking the fast in such cases protects life—it does not diminish worship.
A Hypertensive Patient Must Break the Fast If:
Severe dizziness or unusual headache occurs
Sudden drop or sharp spike in blood pressure
Symptoms such as palpitations or chest pain appear
The golden rule:
“Monitor warning signs and take them seriously.”
The Best Timing for Drinking Water in Ramadan
Hydration is critical—but timing matters as much as quantity.
Recommended Schedule:
One cup at iftar
One cup every hour or two
One cup before suhoor
Avoid:
Drinking large amounts all at once
Drinking excessive water immediately with meals
Consuming very large quantities right before suhoor
Such habits may cause bloating, strain on the heart, and kidney stress.
Final Advice
If you have diabetes or high blood pressure, do not make fasting a burden on yourself. Fasting is an act of worship—but protecting your health is an even greater one.
Monitor your readings, consult healthcare professionals, and do not feel guilty if you need to break your fast for medical reasons. Health preservation is also a form of devotion.
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