Yeditepe University Koşuyolu Hospital Internal Medicine and Geriatrics specialist draws attention to the importance of adequate and balanced nutrition on our immunity during the month of Ramadan.

“Chronic Disorders Should Consult Their Physicians”

Yeditepe University Koşuyolu Hospital Internal Medicine and Geriatrics Specialist warns people with chronic diseases. Stating that people with chronic diseases such as diabetes, hypertension, kidney failure, and cancer, and those who take regular medication do not recommend fasting, Çurgunlu says that it would be healthy for these people to make decisions in consultation with their physicians. ''In chronic diseases, a long period of fasting, especially dehydration, causes the metabolism to slow down. However, not taking enough fluid can make kidney failure easier because it tires the kidney too much. In addition, blood sugar and blood pressure irregularities may occur. For this reason, we do not recommend fasting. The most important reason why diabetics are advised not to fast is that they should not stay hydrated. Complications that may occur in 5-10 years may occur in a month, perhaps in a very short time. Hence, we say that patients should decide whether to fast or not by consulting their physicians.

Plenty of Liquid and Water Consumption is Important

If a balanced and regular diet, quality and sufficient sleep, and adequate fluid intake are taken care of, the pandemic does not prevent fasting for healthy people. But for those who have been treated for Covid-19, our expert has a warning: “We do not recommend that survivors fast. These people need to drink fluids regularly for 24 hours and eat a balanced and regular diet. Those aged 65 and over with good general health can act according to their own preferences, he gives the following advice: “These people should also be careful about what they eat and drink while fasting. Avoid heavy and fatty meals at dinner. Iftar and sahur should be rich in protein, and they should pay special attention to the consumption of plenty of liquid, especially water, between iftar and sahur.”

Press Coverage: milliyet.com

This content was prepared by Yeditepe University Hospitals Medical Editorial Board.

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