Celebrating Eid al-Fitr when living with diabetes

People living with diabetes can enjoy the celebrations and delicious foods just like everyone else. However, there are some things you can do to help manage your diabetes during these celebrations.  

Start slowly and eat small portions

There will likely be several eating occasions over the day so do not overdo it too early in the day. This will also help to reduce the risk of developing unpleasant gut symptoms, like bloating. That might occur if you eat large portions quickly after spending the month fasting.   

Balance is everything

Make sure that you eat a balanced meal with plenty of vegetables, lower Glycaemic Index carbohydrates (like legumes, basmati rice, or wholegrain breads & cereals) and some quality protein like lean meat, fish or legumes.  

Enjoy the sweet treats on offer in a mindful way

This means to really enjoy what you are having and eat it slowly. This can help to limit how much you eat, rather than trying to sample everything that is on offer.  

Rehydrate

Drink plenty of water over the day to help you rehydrate. Avoid drinking sweetened drinks as there will be more than enough sugar and carbohydrates in the food that you are eating.   

Keep Active

Try to do something active with friends and family in between all the eating – like going for a walk, dancing or playing a game of sport.  

Monitor

You may need to monitor your BGLs more frequently, however, if you are eating over the course of the day, remember that your blood glucose levels (BGLs) will likely be elevated because it hasn’t been long since your last food. If you want to see how your BGLs are tracking, remember to check at least two hours after the last time you ate.   

Enjoy your celebration

Most importantly, enjoy the celebration and leave worrying about getting your regular healthy eating back on track until after the celebrations have finished.    
 
If you are participating in Ramadan, speak with your doctor or diabetes team on how best to manage your diabetes. It's a good idea to tell your doctor or Credentialled Diabetes Educator any difficulties experienced in previous fasts and how you coped with them. They can advise on any adjustment of medication that may be required to enable you to fast safely.  
 
The International Diabetes Federation and Diabetes and Ramadan (DAR) International Alliance have created practical guidelines to help people manage their diabetes during Ramadan. The guidelines, designed for health professionals, provide relevant background information and practical recommendations.  

 For more information or to speak with a Diabetes Victoria dietitian, book an appointment at Diabetes Care Plus or call the NDSS Helpline on 1800 637 700.