Dietary practices during common religious fasts in people with type 2 diabetes mellitus among different religions in North India-A questionnaire-based study

Abstract

Background: There are no data regarding dietary practices during fasts in subjects with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) among different religions in India, specifically Hindus. The aim of this study was to assess dietary patterns and practices during fasts among subjects with T2DM in India. Methods: Participants with T2DM from three diabetes clinics in northern India, after verbal consent, were subjected to predesigned study proforma. Results: Three hundred participants completed the questionnaire (age ≥25 years); 76.33% were Hindu, 11.00% were Muslim, 4.66% were Sikh, and 5.67% were from other religions (Christians and Buddhists). Overall, 49.33% participants observed fasts in the last year. The most common Hindu fasts were Navratri (34.50%) and Karvachauth (31.00%). Only 1.35% of participants discussed dietary behavior with their doctors or dieticians before observing the fast. Frequency of eating during fasts varied among different religions, as well as according to different fasts. Common food groups consumed among the two most popular Hindu fasts were milk and milk products (92.41% during Navratri and 56.34% during Karvachauth), fruits (49.37% during Navratri and 16.90% during Karvachauth), and cereals (10.13% during Navratri and 8.45% during Karvachauth). Direct intake of sugar in the form of sweets/desserts, as well as sugar-containing beverages, juices and soft drinks, was common. Conclusions: Fasting is a common practice among people T2DM in all religions of India. Poor adherence to healthy dietary practices is common during fasting among subjects with T2DM. Many patients do not discuss their fasting habits with their diabetes care team. Diabetes care teams should discuss fasts with their patients with T2DM. They should tailor this information based on the patient's religion and provide them with information regarding diet during days of fast.