The Benefits of Ramadan Fasting for People With Diabetes

The practice of fasting during Ramadan is often a source of concern for people with diabetes. The prospect of a drastic drop in blood sugar (hypoglycaemia) or a sharp rise after breaking the fast is a common worry. However, behind these challenges, fasting when undertaken in the right way holds remarkable medical potential, particularly in improving the body’s internal systems. Hari Hendarto, a professor of internal medicine specialising in endocrine-metabolic diabetes at Eka Hospital BSD Tangerang, said that people with diabetes who fast during Ramadan with the correct pattern can have a positive impact on the hormonal system.

‘Fasting for people with diabetes also increases insulin sensitivity. Fasting helps body cells become more responsive to insulin, so blood sugar is easier to manage,’ said Prof Hari Hendarto in Tangerang on Wednesday (4 March 2026).

Another benefit for diabetics during the period of fasting is healthy weight loss, which reduces visceral fat—the main enemy of diabetes. It also gradually improves average blood glucose levels (HbA1c), helps lower blood pressure and improves cholesterol profiles, reducing the risk of cardiovascular complications.

Medically, the majority of people with type 2 diabetes whose blood sugar is well controlled are allowed to fast. However, this decision must be based on advice and supervision from a doctor.

‘Patients at very high risk, such as those with type 1 diabetes whose blood sugar is not controlled, patients with kidney failure or those who are pregnant require special assessment by a doctor,’ he said.

Prof Hari stated that a safe approach to fasting for diabetics is to monitor blood sugar independently and regularly, namely in the morning, at midday and in the late afternoon. Performing finger-prick blood tests does not invalidate the fast according to medical and religious fatwas.