Can you really not eat or drink anything—not even water?
Nope, not even water! While fasting, Muslims do not consume food or drink from dawn (suhoor) until sunset (iftar). That means no snacks, no gum, and yes, no sips of water. This may sound intense if you were not aware of the practice before, but the body usually adapts to it within a few days. While you may be concerned that it is damaging to health, research suggests that fasting is actually beneficial for the physical body and mental well-being. As such, having a nutritious and slow energy-releasing pre-fast meal (suhoor) is key to nourishing the body and energising for the day (yay to overnight oats!)
Do you fast for the whole month?
Yes and no. Ramadan lasts for about 29–30 days, and Muslims fast every day during that time. But fasting is only from dawn to sunset—at night, people eat, drink, and rest. Some students might also adjust their routines, taking power naps or planning study sessions carefully to best make use of their energy in the day.
Do all Muslims fast, even the elderly and sick?
Islam allows exceptions for those who might struggle with fasting, including:
- Elderly people who are too weak to fast.
- Those with medical conditions or illnesses.
- Pregnant or breastfeeding women/ women having their period.
- People travelling long distances.
- Young children (fasting is only required after puberty).
If someone is unable to fast due to health reasons, they are not required to make it up. Instead, they can give to charity or provide meals for those in need. So, if you see a Muslim eating during Ramadan, don’t assume they’re breaking the rules—they may have a valid reason not to fast that they do not feel comfortable sharing.
Can I eat around someone who is fasting?
Yes, absolutely! While fasting is an important spiritual practice, Muslims do not expect others to stop eating around them. If you are worried about being disrespectful, just be mindful—avoid offering them food and drink if you know they are fasting. Some fasting students may even enjoy being around food because it helps them look forward to Iftar (many of us fall prey to watching mukbangs and delicious recipes on TikTok, which mysteriously become our algorithms during the month!).
How can I support my Muslim friends who are fasting in Ramadan?
There are many ways to support your Muslim friends and fellow students during Ramadan. You could join them for Iftar at one of the campus Iftars, avoid scheduling meetings early in the morning (many will be catching up on their sleep), or just be understanding if they are a little low on energy. Avoid framing fasting as a hardship, as Muslims see fasting as a privilege and a way for them to build a deeper connection with their faith.
Ramadan is a time of reflection, community, and self-discipline. The best way to support the many Muslims on campus is through kindness and curiosity. Many Muslims will happily answer any questions you have about Ramadan, but some may prefer not to discuss it, so always approach the topic with respect and understanding.
Written by Zoia Ali.
