Suhoor & Iftar
The two meals of a fasting day: what the sunnah says about each, the authentic supplications, and practical guidance on eating and drinking well across the month.
More questions
What should I eat at Suhoor to stay full longer?
A slow-release carbohydrate such as oats or wholegrains, protein such as eggs, yoghurt or pulses, and some fat such as nuts or olive oil. That combination empties from the stomach more slowly than refined carbohydrate alone.
Why am I so thirsty despite drinking at Suhoor?
Very salty food is the usual culprit, since it increases fluid loss through the day. Large amounts of caffeine have a similar effect.
Is it bad to skip Suhoor?
The fast is still valid, but you miss a strongly recommended sunnah and a useful meal. Most people skip it for reasons of effort rather than appetite, which is why the make-ahead recipes exist.
What is the healthiest way to break the fast?
Dates and water first, then Maghrib, then the main meal. The gap gives the stomach time to adjust and takes the edge off the hunger that otherwise drives a very large first plate.
Should I avoid fried food entirely at Iftar?
Not necessarily, but a table where every item is fried is what leaves people heavy and sleepy. Having something cold and sharp alongside — a salad, a chaat, fruit — changes the meal considerably.
How do I stop wasting food in Ramadan?
Cook less than instinct suggests: people eat noticeably less after a long fast than hosts expect, especially after a starter course. Plan for surplus to be shared or donated. The Qur’an says to eat and drink without being excessive (7:31).
Do I need supplements during Ramadan?
Only if you already take them on medical advice or a clinician recommends them. Ramadan does not itself create a need for supplementation.