Navratri fasting tips for stable blood sugar: Navratri fasting poses additional difficulties for people with blood sugar issues and especially diabetics. According to Dr Anu Gaikwad, Consultant Diabetologist & HOD Geriatric Medicine, DPU Super Specialty Hospital, Pimpri, Pune, there is no need to worry as in these situations, it is possible to fast and still maintain normal blood sugar levels by planning things in advance.
Here are some crucial tips for maintaining blood sugar levels
- Dietary Changes for Maintaining Blood Sugar Levels: Use of carbohydrate foods like kuttu, rajgiri or sama provide energy without disturbing the blood sugar levels. Fat/ carbohydrate sources like ghee, nuts, low-fat plain yogurt, paneer, tofu, and high-fibre vegetables should be added for stamina and energy with longer endurance. Sugars, processed foods, soft drinks, fruit juices, and other high calorie products should also be avoided because of the rapid increase in blood glucose level they cause.
- Fasting Guidelines for Diabetic Patients: It becomes imperative to alter the practice of onset of fasting in the case of every diabetic. There is no need to make long continuous fasts. These can be replaced by intermittent fasts or smaller meals taken at regular intervals. Treating with the medication or insulin doses should be done with the health care provider’s recommendation. Prophylactic measures include blood sugar level monitoring during the fast.
- Importance of Hydration: Dehydration can also make things worse for those already experiencing blood sugar levels fluctuation during a fasting period, so there is a need of drinking enough fluids, including coconut and fresh lemon water, herbal teas or thinned juices, but no sweets.
- Warning Signs and Actions: When you notice excessive tiredness or dizziness coupled with confusion and sometimes blurred vision, these may be warnings of low or even too high blood sugar levels. If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to break the fast immediately and consume something rich in glucose, like fruit or a glucose tablet, and seek medical attention if necessary.
By making mindful dietary choices, staying hydrated, and carefully monitoring blood sugar levels, you can safely observe Navratri without compromising your health,” Dr. Gaikwad said.
But Diabetic patients whose blood sugar is already out of control, they should avoid fasting, he said.