DIABETICS from Hampshire taking part in the Muslim Holy Month of Ramadan are urged to seek medical advice.

One of the most important religious event in the Islamic calendar starts next month and Diabetes UK are is warning of the potentially dangerous consequences as fasting can increase the risk of both high and low blood blood sugar.

For 30 days millions of people across the world take part in the Islamic festival Ramadan before celebrating Eid-al-Fitr. Many Muslims, though not all, will not eat or drink from sunrise to sunset.

It comes when the festival is held during the height of summer, with the third day of the month being the longest day of the year.

Devotees could be fasting for as much as 17 hours a day.

Young children, pregnant women and the frail do not have to take part, but many people believe that they have to, and Diabetes UK wants to give anyone suffering from diabetes to be aware of the risks.

People with diabetes need to be aware of their sugar levels throughout the day. If it becomes too low, it can have catastrophic effects.

Jill Steaton, from Diabetes UK, said: "This can be a challenge for anyone, but for those with diabetes, it can have potentially dangerous consequences as fasting can increase the risk of both high and low blood glucose levels.

“Those with diabetes who are considering fasting should talk to their Imam about alternatives – remember, as people with diabetes do not have to fast.

“If people do choose to fast, it’s important to get advice from their GP. or diabetes nurse as they can give tips on how to manage your diabetes during the month.

“For example, try eating foods that are slowly absorbed by the body, like basmati rice, chapattis and dhal as they can help you to feel full for longer.

“Also, keep an eye on portion size – it may seem like a good idea to eat a larger meal but this may increase your blood glucose levels.

“Some people believe that testing their blood glucose level automatically breaks fast but this isn’t true.

“In fact, it’s important to check more often than normal as the risk of high or low levels is increased during fasting.”

Rashid Brora, president of the Medina Mosque in St Mary’s has previously said: “It’s not about the fast, it’s about being nice and fair to everyone.

“This is a very, very important festival. It is the one time of the year when everybody fasts together.

“You will find people who will change their lives in the way they behave during this month, they will be kinder to people or they will visit mosques more often. It is quite a dramatic change.

“It is a time when people give money to charity. Muslims give a lot of their annual incomes away at this time of year.”

Anyone with health issues thinking about fasting throughout Ramadan should talk to their healthcare professional and their Imam to come to a decision that is right for them.

Diabetes UK has a Careline for people who have any questions regarding diabetes, including fasting during Ramadan.

Contact 0845 120 2960 or visit www.diabetes.org.uk/careline