KARACHI: Ramazan weight gain could contribute to the diabetes epidemic in Pakistan, with more than 400,000 deaths reported in 2021 alone due to the very high prevalence of the disease.
According to the International Diabetes Federation (IDF), the high prevalence of diabetes in Pakistan could be a major public health concern, as diabetes is responsible for 400,000 deaths in the country in 2021, the highest number in the Middle East and North Africa region.
Pakistan has the third highest number of people living with diabetes in the world, after China and India. In its report, IDF shared data till 2021 and revealed around 33 million diabetic patients in Pakistan. The number of patients with diabetes is increasing rapidly due to lack of awareness about this disease.
The IDF report further states that approximately 26.9 percent of Pakistan's 33 million diabetic patients are undiagnosed, putting them at risk of serious and life-threatening complications such as heart attack, stroke, kidney failure, blindness and lower limb amputation.
On the other hand, studies have shown that Muslims around the world tend to gain weight during Ramazan despite fasting.
However, Pakistanis are ahead of other Muslims globally as we consume many fatty, greasy and sugary foods and drinks during Ramazan more than any other nation.
During the non-fasting period, we consume a large amount of junk food at Iftar and after a short time we consume it again at Sehar with more or less similar amount of food.
Experts advised hungry individuals to be careful about their food choices and portion sizes during Ramazan and to engage in physical activity to maintain a healthy weight and reduce the risk of diabetes.
In an interview with the Business Recorder, Peggy Martinet, CNS, Food Writer / Dietitian at www.blogzah.com, said Ramazan is a time of spiritual reflection and renewal for Muslims around the world, but it also brings changes in dietary habits that can have long-term consequences. health consequences.
With the highest national prevalence of diabetes in the world, Pakistanis should avoid high calorie and sugar intake during Ramazan to prevent weight gain and the risk of chronic diseases such as diabetes, heart disease and obesity.
She further said that Ramazan can be a challenging time not only for people with diabetes, but for anyone who is fasting due to changes in their eating habits and physical activity.
Peggy said it is important to maintain a balanced and healthy diet during Ramazan and avoid overeating, especially during non-fasting periods.
The variety of sugary and fatty foods, their easy availability in supermarkets and overeating during the day outside of fasting contribute significantly to weight gain.
She advised them to break their fast with water or dates, a good natural source of sugar, and to avoid sugary drinks and foods to solve the problem.
In addition to dietary changes, she recommended regular physical activity as a key component of a healthy lifestyle.
During Ramazan, a hungry individual may feel less inclined to exercise due to fatigue and reduced energy levels from fasting.
However, she argued that incorporating physical activity into daily routines, such as a brisk walk after Iftar or light exercise before Sehar, can help maintain energy levels and prevent weight gain.
She further said that there are several other practical ways to lead a healthier lifestyle during Ramazan.
She added that a recent article published on https://blogzah.com provides 30 practical ways to reduce sugar intake and maintain a balanced and healthy diet throughout the month of fasting.
The suggestions in the article range from drinking water instead of sugary drinks to using natural sweeteners like dates and honey to cooking at home to control your sugar and salt intake.
By adopting these practical strategies, a hungry individual can reduce their sugar intake and improve their overall health and well-being during Ramazan, she said.
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