Table 3.
Key aspects to cover during consultation
Aspects | Advice |
---|---|
SMBG | - Importance and frequency of SMBG; identification, management and reporting of hypoglycaemia and hyperglycaemia |
Diet | - Avoid foods of high glycaemic index; avoid indulgent eating |
Fluids and meal planning | - In temperate countries where fasting is prolonged or when temperatures are hot, adequate non-sugary fluid intake is advised |
Exercise |
- Regular light-to-moderate exercise is advised; it can be done anytime, but preferably a few hours before Iftaar or just after a light Iftaar - The special night prayer (Taraweeh), which can involve standing for prolonged periods, is a good form of exercise for those who participate. This occurs within a congregation in the mosque and is a form of exercise. Patients should keep treatment for hypoglycaemia |
Smoking | - Smoking invalidates a fast. Ramadan is an opportunity to promote smoking cessation |
Medication review | - Optimization for Ramadan fasts with particular importance given to risk of hypoglycaemia, duration of fasts and non-diabetes medication, such as diuretic usage |
When to break the fast |
- Blood glucose < 4 mmol/L(< 5 mmol/l if driving necessary) - Blood glucose > 16.7 mmol/L at any time during the fast (or pre-agreed threshold with HCP) - Development of acute intercurrent illness causing significant physical, mental or physiological compromise - General deterioration in health causing significant physical, mental or physiological compromise |
Driving/travel |
- Determine if driving is required for work and/or social activities and further stratify patients according to risk in relation to risk of harm when fasting - If driving whilst fasting is going to occur, give relevant advice relating to hypoglycaemia that is compatible with both secular and religious law |
Healthcre support | - A HCP should be identified for advice and support |
HCP Healthcare professional, SMBG Self-monitoring of blood glucose