Assalamoalikum,
I just found out from my Dr. that I might not be able to fast this Ramadan due to me getting diabetes. I'm extremely saddened by this news and what's upsetting me even more is that I will probably never be able to fast. I'm in my mid-twenties and it seem to have been already over for me.
Now, I know that the alternative to fasting is to feed the poor - which is what my parents do ever since they got diabeties and I will do too, but it's just overwhelming for me. The feeling that I won't be able to fast anymore.
Does anyone know what to do in this situation? How to overcome this feeling? And if I maintain my blood-sugar level, will I ever be able to fast?
:wasalam: brother,
From what you have mentioned so far, it is most likely that you have Type 2 diabetes - based on having a positive family history (your parents), weight (type 1 diabetics are slender in build) and your presentation (very often type 2 diabetes may be present for some time before being diagnosed, and can be an incidental finding, as in your case. Versus type 1 diabetic patients who usually present more acutely and are often very ill at the time of diagnosis).
However another possibility to consider at your age, is a type of diabetes called: MODY (Maturity onset diabetes of the young).
In such cases, there is always a first degree relative who also has diabetes (your mum/ dad), sugar levels usually are not very high and
generally (not always) patients are not over-weight.
Its a very rare condition and is diagnosed by means of genetic testing.
Management does differ slightly between type 2 diabetics and patients with MODY.
Perhaps you can mention this to your doctor at your next visit.
(If he feels that your weight is the driving factor for your diabetes, he may be more inclined towards a diagnosis of type 2 diabetes.)
With regards to fasting:
It is very possible to fast as a diabetic, depending on:
1. What meds you are on.
If you are on Glucophage/ Metformin only, then you can fast as normal on these agents, without the risk of having low sugars during the day.
If you are on any other meds as well, then in shaa Allah we can advise you further with regards to how to adjust the doses/ times of consuming them during Ramadaan.
(2. Overall diabetic control - patients with very poor control are generally advised not to fast.
3. Any complications that may arise from diabetes - e.g. heart/ kidney problems.
4. Having frequent low sugars when on diabetic treatment)
^Its too early to worry about the last 3 points, but it may be the reasons why your parents have been advised not to fast in Ramadaan.
So, brother do not worry - it is still possible to fast as a diabetic in shaa Allah.
And as sister جوري has mentioned, it may actually be beneficial for you (as a means of weight reduction in shaa Allah).
So, be positive and in shaa Allah, let this diagnosis be the means for you to reflect on your lifestyle/ diet/ exercise, and ways in which you can improve in these areas.
Therefore it would be essential to consult a dietician to advise you further on foods that are suitable for a diabetic, and in particular, 'Low Glycemic Index' foods (that release sugars slowly) for Ramadaan (and other months).
Dont forget akhi, that this is a test from Allah (subhanawataála). He does not desire our hardship/ suffering, but He desires that we turn to Him in duaa and remembrance.
May this trial be the means of opening many doors towards Allah Taa'las pleasure and nearness.
Ameen.
Please let us know if we can assist you in any other way in shaa Allah.
:wasalam:
