Diabetes and fasting: Can I fast during Ramadan?

Date Updated: 03/27/2021

Answer Section

It's safe sometimes. Some people may choose to not eat for a period of time (fast) for religious reasons, such as from dawn to sunset during the Islamic holy month of Ramadan.

However, talk with your doctor before you fast. He or she will likely explain potential risks of complications such as low or high blood sugar and dehydration. Your doctor may suggest that you avoid fasting if you're at high risk of complications. If you choose to fast, your doctor and diabetes care team will likely provide you with education about managing your diabetes and adjusting your medications or insulin doses.

You may have a high risk of complications if you fast during Ramadan and you have one or more of the following:

Type 1 diabetes
Type 2 diabetes with poor blood sugar control
Recent history of severe low blood sugar or diabetic ketoacidosis
History of recurring low blood sugar or unawareness of low blood sugar
Conditions such as severe kidney disease or blood vessel complications
Diabetes and are pregnant

But it may be safe for you to fast with diabetes during Ramadan if you:

Have type 2 diabetes that's well-controlled
Manage diabetes with medications or lifestyle therapy

If you choose to fast during Ramadan, your doctor and diabetes care team will likely recommend that you:

Closely monitor your blood sugar
Adjust your medication doses
Watch for signs of low blood sugar
Follow your doctor's suggestions about food, drink and exercise
Be ready to stop fasting if you have low or high blood sugar

You may be able to fast safely during Ramadan if you understand the risks, manage your diabetes and carefully follow your doctor's recommendations.