Makkah, February 25, 2026, SPA -- Adhering to medically recommended dietary guidelines plays a critical role in maintaining patient safety during fasting. Health experts advise against beginning Iftar with heavy or high-sugar foods. Instead, it is preferable to start with a light option, such as dates and milk, then pray Maghrib, before gradually consuming the main meal. Emphasis should be placed on complex carbohydrates that are absorbed slowly and help maintain stable blood glucose levels, while sweetened juices and sugary beverages should be avoided.

Dr. Sanaa Barnawi, a family medicine consultant at the Makkah Virtual Health Center, explained that the decision to fast, particularly for patients with chronic conditions such as diabetes, requires an individualized medical assessment. She underscored the importance of consulting the treating physician before Ramadan to evaluate the patient’s health status and minimize potential risks.

Dr. Barnawi also highlighted the need for regular monitoring during Ramadan, including frequent blood glucose checks. Patients should break their fast immediately if symptoms of hypoglycemia or hyperglycemia occur to prevent complications. She stressed that strict adherence to medical guidance supports both safe fasting practices and overall health stability during the holy month.