[Islamic fasting and its effect on pre-diabetic population]

ABSTRACT

Islamic fasting is different from other modes of food deprivation and undoubtedly, it has a different effect on human health and disease states. As pre-diabetes has a relatively high prevalence rate and fasting can have a direct effect on the blood sugar level and other high risk factors, this study was conducted to assess the effect of Islamic fasting on pre-diabetic individuals. This was a semi experimental [pre and post study]. Among 437 pre-diabetic individuals in this center, 191 fasting volunteers entered into this study. Before and after the holy month of Ramadan, blood sugar, cholesterol, triglyceride, weight and blood pressure of the subjects were measured by means of standard methods. We used paired t-test for data analysis. Among 191 pre-diabetic individuals, 155 were female [81.15 percent] and 36 were male [18.85 percent]. Blood sugar, triglyceride and cholesterol levels showed significant differences before and after fasting, whereas systolic and diastolic blood pressure and weight did not show any significant differences. Fasting is not harmful for pre-diabetic individuals and has beneficial effects. Therefore it can be regarded a useful way to prevent diabetes in pre-diabetic people.