Effect of Ramadan fasting on renal function in patients with type 2 diabetes

Abstract

AimTo evaluate the effect of Ramadan fasting on kidney functions in patients with type 2 DM. MethodsWe recruited 90 subjects with type 2 DM intending to fast Ramadan; classified into 30 with albuminuria and renal impairment (group I), 30 with albuminuria and normal kidney functions (group II) and 30 without albuminuria and normal kidney functions (group III). Two weeks before and after Ramadan, fasting plasma glucose, 2 h plasma glucose, hemoglobin A1c, fructosamine, serum creatinine, BUN, eGFR and albumin/ creatinine ratio were measured. ResultsOn comparing data before and after Ramadan, significant reduction in HbA1c was found in all groups. As regards kidney function parameters, no significant difference was found in group I but a significant decline in these parameters was found in groups II and III; serum creatinine, eGFR, urinary albumin/ creatinine ratio (p <0.001). Only Group I showed significant hypoglycemic events and need for dose reduction. ConclusionRamadan fasting improved glycemic control in patients with type 2 DM with no decline in kidney functions in renally impaired group, only a decline in albuminuric and healthy groups within the normal range. Patients should be adviced regarding adequate hydration and dietary modification during Pre-Ramadan health care education.