How to Survive a Fast Without Being Hungry:

What is Ramadan ?

Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar. Every day during this month, Muslims around the world spend the daylight hours in a complete fast.

Before the Fast:

Start preparing for the fast several days in advance, or earlier depending on the length.

 Drink plenty of water, preferably more than you usually intake, to ensure that your body will be hydrated while you fast. It's best to also begin avoiding foods and beverages with high salt and sugar contents.

Limit the caffeine you drink.

 Coffees, sodas, teas and energy drinks all contain high amounts of caffeine that can eventually make you addicted to them. If you can't get through your day without them and don't take action before the fast begins, you may suffer from unwanted headaches and other symptoms of caffeine withdrawal.

Limit your tobacco intake as well before the fast.

 To some, this may be even more difficult than giving up caffeine. If you are having trouble finding a way totemporarily quit, talk to your doctor and discuss a solution.

Eat foods that contain carbohydrates until you begin your fast. 

This will give you the much-needed energy your body will use as you are fasting.

On the day before the fast, continue to drink plenty of water and eat small meals to hold you over until a larger meal you may decide to eat before fasting. 

Bread, eggs, pasta, and granola are some good suggestions for nutritious and filling pre-fast day foods.

Eat a large meal before the fast, but don't overeat.

 Gorging yourself with food will not satisfy you longer, it may make you more hungry. Instead, eat a meal consisting of carbohydrates, poultry, and water. Sports drinks like Gatorade or Powerade will help store electrolytes lost during the fast, but in moderation.

During the Fast:

Don't partake in any strenuous, vigorous activity. 

Exercising on a fast day will only make you tired and thirsty.

After the Fast:

Make sure to drink plenty of fluids to rehydrate your body. 

Water, of course, and sports drinks to replace lost electrolytes are good ideas.

If you are attending Prayer services after your fast.

(e.g. Taraweeh Salah, Tahajjud Salah) then make sure you bring a water bottle to stay hydrated