'Go easy on food after Ramadan; prepare to go back to usual routine'

Dubai - Overindulgence during Eid Al Fitr after a month of self-control, in particular, may lead to health problems.

With just a few days left before Ramadan ends, it is important to ensure that the body is ready for the 'switch' in one's routine. Overindulgence during Eid Al Fitr after a month of self-control, in particular, may lead to health problems, especially if one suffers from various ailments, said doctors.
"Overloading a body that is used to the Ramadan timetable can create health problems and it is not advisable," said Dr M. Hamed Farooqi, director of the Dubai Diabetes Centre. "Sweets, including all kinds of sugary drinks, can cause a significant elevation in blood sugar levels. For diabetic patients, in particular, this can cause a health problem," he said.
Dr Farooqi said that in general, gastric issues such as nausea, vomiting and indigestion are the most common health problems during this time.
In the case of people with diabetes, especially those with Type 1 diabetes, excessive sugar consumption can put the pancreas into an overdrive and this can lead to medical emergencies.
Dr Nada Al Mulla, family medicine physician and head of Nad Al Hammar Primary Health Centre, said: "I always advise my patients to get their blood tests and other regular diagnostic tests done one week before Eid, so that doctors can assess where they stand in terms of their health. Their medication can be adjusted accordingly."
Normally, patients who are disciplined during Ramadan show improved health outcomes compared to those who have not followed a healthy eating pattern, she said.
"Once the doctor provides the adjusted medication dosage, we strongly advise our patients, especially those with chronic diseases like diabetes, to be mindful of their eating habits during the Eid celebrations." Dr Farooqui added that people with chronic conditions such as diabetes need to be careful about both the quantity of the food they eat and the schedule of their meals.
"Similarly people with other chronic conditions such as high blood pressure should watch out for salty food," he said.
Back to usual
In terms of medications, Dr Farooqui said: "As we resume our usual routine, the timing and dosage of medications also need to revert to the pre-Ramadan schedule, and this should be done as per your doctor's advice. It would be better if the blood sugar levels are monitored more often than usual in this phase of transition."
Dietary patterns need to be normalised in a gradual manner, too, "Making the right choices in terms of food and trying to keep these choices as simple as possible go a long way in making this transition smooth and successful," he added.
Dr Nada said that after Eid, people are advised to try to have an early breakfast, keeping it close to the Suhoor hour. "It is also advisable to have small meals during the day," she said. To prevent deep sleep during the day and late afternoon, it is better to take a short nap that is not more than 30 minutes and to make sure the room is not dark to avoid sleeping for a longer period of time, she added.
As a rule, it is best to completely avoid caffeine after 3pm so that one can fall asleep on time at night. This habit helps reset the body back to the regular routine.
Exercise must also be a priority, said Dr Nada. "I always recommend going back to an exercise schedule. The longer you take to start exercising, the harder it gets."
Smokers, on the other hand, should visit a cessation clinic as it is easier to quit smoking during the holy month or shortly after the period.
asmaalizain@khaleejtimes.com

• Ramadan 2021