Nestlé Health Science releases booklet to guide diabetics during Ramadan
KUALA LUMPUR: Nestlé Health Science in collaboration with Institut Jantung Negara ( IJN) has released a special educational guide to support diabetics in taking charge of their blood sugar level and fast with confidence during Ramadan.
Its business executive officer Emilyn Loo jointly launched the specially commissioned booklet, entitled ‘Nutren Untuk Diabetik Diabetes Management Guide & Simply Delicious Ramadan Recipes’ at IJN during an exclusive media workshop led by IJN Dietetics & Food Services senior manager Mary Easaw and IJN deputy manager, Dietetics & Food Services Siti Farhath.
“Nestlé Health Science is proud to provide practical solutions and education that embrace safe fasting practices to support diabetics in leading healthier lives.
“Nutren Untuk Diabetik ( NUD)” is our innovative and complete nutritional supplement for diabetics echoes that commitment. Mary has shown the product’s versatility by preparing some delicious Ramadan dishes,” remarked Loo through their press statement yesterday.
“Contrary to popular belief, fasting is safe for the majority of people living with Type 2 diabetes. However, there are potential health challenges for those in the high-risk diabetes category.
“We hope to bring to light these issues and provide solutions that enable safe fasting through the timely release of the NUD Diabetes Management Guide & Simply Delicious Ramadan Recipe booklet,” added Loo
According to Siti, high risk diabetics including the elderly, pregnant women and those involved in intense physical labour are more vulnerable to spikes in blood sugar levels, and are at a higher risk of hypoglycaemia (low blood sugar) and dehydration1 when fasting.
There is also an increased likelihood of hyperglycemia (high blood sugar), during the pre- dawn meal and at breaking of the fast.
“Patients should always discuss their diabetes food management plan with their healthcare professional prior to fasting. Failing to take such action, may lead to poorly managed blood sugar levels and uncontrolled diabetes. People taking medication to lower their blood sugar should consult their doctor or diabetes educator about fasting safely and what precautions should be taken to prevent blood sugar levels from spiking or dipping,” she added
While cooking up a storm, Mary advised to limit the intake of fried or fatty foods, and foods that are high in salt and sugar as this will cause unwanted blood sugar.
“However, one to two dates at the breaking of fast in the evening may be taken. If you cannot stomach anything heavy early in the morning, choose an alternative to provide the long satiety needed.
“For a quick and easy solution, prepare a nutritious milkshake or smoothie, seal it and refrigerate before you go to bed, and enjoy it in the morning,” she said.
The Simply Delicious Ramadan Recipes and Diabetes Management Guide is now available online at www.nestlehealthscience.my.