How much water should I drink between iftar and suhoor?

Detailed answer

Islam does not set a fixed amount of water to drink in Ramadan. A common health guideline for adults is about 6 to 8 glasses of fluid a day, roughly 1.5 to 2 litres, and more if it is hot or you are active. In Ramadan, the key is to spread this over the hours between iftar and suhoor rather than drinking it all at once.

Why water matters

Allah reminds us of the value of water: "We made from water every living thing" (Al-Anbiya 21:30). Looking after your body is part of being grateful for it. Good hydration helps prevent headaches, tiredness and dizziness during the fast.

An easy plan

• At iftar: 1 to 2 glasses, starting with water and dates.
• After Maghrib and with dinner: 1 to 2 glasses.
• During the evening and around Taraweeh: 2 glasses, a little at a time.
• At suhoor: 1 to 2 glasses, with water-rich foods.

Keep a bottle with you in the evening so you can sip regularly.

Help your body hold on to water

• Eat water-rich foods: cucumber, watermelon, oranges, tomatoes, soups and yoghurt.
• Cut down on salt and salty snacks, especially at suhoor.
• Limit caffeine from tea, coffee and cola. See coffee at suhoor.
• Do not gulp a litre at suhoor. The body cannot store it, and you will mostly pass it out.
• Stay cool during the day and avoid hard exercise in the heat.

Signs you need more

Dark yellow urine, strong headaches, dizziness or feeling faint can mean you are not drinking enough. More advice is in avoiding dehydration in Ramadan and avoiding headaches while fasting. If you feel very unwell, it is allowed to break your fast and make the day up later.

A note for health conditions

Some people, for example with kidney or heart problems, have special fluid limits. If that applies to you, follow the advice of your doctor, ideally one who understands fasting, rather than a general guideline.