Can you drink water during Ramadan? Fasting rules for Muslims during Islamic holy month explained

Ramadan is now underway, with Muslims across the world fasting for 30 days
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Depending on your sect, Ramadan began on 2 April or 3 April 2022 and lasts for 29-30 days depending on the sighting of the moon.

Ramadan is an Islamic holy month, where Muslims dry fast from sunrise to sunset, as decreed by the Islamic holy book, the Quran.

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However, for many non-practitioners, this month often throws up questions such as “can you drink water?”

So, can you drink water during Ramadan? And what are the other rules? Here’s what you need to know.

Can you drink water during Ramadan? 

No, for all practising Muslims, Ramadan is a month of dry fasting between the hours of sunrise to sunset, and this varies between countries.

This means that Muslims are to refrain from drinking water or any other liquid, and eating food.

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It is recommended that anyone fasting consumes enough water at night, before the sun re-rises.

If you consume anything during daylight hours, the fast becomes void and would not count.

Ghazala Yousuf is a lead Dietitian at Harley Dietitians. On hydration, she recommends pacing yourself with drinks and food, but “cut out the caffeine if you can, because it can be dehydrating.”

Going for fruits such as watermelons, and soup can help with drink intake during the night, and pacing yourself is vital.

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In other forms of hydration, she said: “Coconut water is also quite re-hydrating, so when you’re thinking about what type of juice to have, ask, is it something that hydrates you?”

What else are Muslims not allowed to do during Ramadan?

As Ramadan is a holy month, Muslims are expected to put more effort into the religious and spiritual aspects of Islam and should refrain from violence, anger, and greed.

In accordance with the rules of Ramadan, nothing can be consumed during sunlight hours, which extends beyond food. It also means people are not allowed to smoke or chew gum.

Any sexual activity during sunlight hours is also not allowed.

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However, you can brush your teeth, shower and rinse your mouth as long as no water is swallowed.

Are there any exceptions on who can fast? 

Ramadan, although may sound harsh, is not a punishment and is a time of year many Muslims look forward to.

There are several exceptions to who can fast, which extends to those who are:

  • Pregnant or breastfeeding 
  • Menstruating
  • Ill or on regular medication
  • Travelling long distances (over 48 miles)

However, for individuals who can keep fast, there are also exceptions. If you vomit then your fast becomes void for the sake of your health. Some Muslims believe that fainting is also a justifiable reason to break your fast as it could lead to further health complications down the line.

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The important thing about fasting is actually your intention. For this reason, Muslims deepen their religious practices, by choosing to read the Quran or avoid listening to music for the 30 days - however, these are not mandatory.

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