The holy month of Ramadan began in India with a bang on Tuesday. In Islam, it is customary for Muslims to partake in a meal before their fast (from dawn to dusk). This is known as the Sehri. Muslims fast during the month of Ramadan (also known as Ramzan). However, fasting can be challenging for people with diabetes, as it can result in hypoglycemia, a condition where blood sugar levels fall below the normal level.

Religious festivals that involve fasting such as Lent, Ramadan, and Maha Shivratri can be challenging for people with diabetes. The main risk of fasting for long hours is hypoglycemia. This is a health condition where blood sugar levels fall below the normal level. You are at a higher risk of getting hypoglycemia if you are on insulin to keep blood sugar levels in check. Hypoglycemia can cause you to feel weak and feverish and you may get into a coma. On the other hand, people may tend to go overboard in eating when breaking their fast, which causes blood sugar levels to rise.

If you have diabetes, it’s best to consult your doctor before starting a fast. If you are determined to observe a fast, make sure that you eat food items that will help you sustain energy and keep blood sugar levels in check. Also, it is important to be mindful of portion control. Here are a few diabetic-friendly food items you can try during Sehri:

– Start your Sehri meal with a few dates and a glass of milk. These are simple carbohydrates that can be digested easily.

– Include fresh fruits such as apples, pears, guavas, strawberries, apricots, grapes, etc. Fruits can satisfy your early morning sweet cravings and are high in fiber and low in starch. They also have complex carbohydrates and are thus low in the glycemic index.

– Have a cup of low-fat milk, a bowl of yogurt, and some bread and cheese. These are a great source of lean protein.

– Try cooking upma, which is made from semolina, a great source of fiber. You can add vegetables like carrots, peas, or peanuts to enhance the taste.

– Whisk an omelette from egg yolks, salt, pepper, and cooking oil. You can add cheese or chicken shreds for a fancy touch.

– Relish oats khichdi by boiling oats in water and adding Maggi masala, pepper, tomato ketchup, and herbs like pudina or coriander.

– Make a smoothie by smashing your favorite fruits like strawberries, bananas, and mangoes, mixing them with milk, and adding a dash of honey.

It’s important to keep your Sehri meal simple, hearty, and not too demanding on your digestive system.