Excess water is quickly eliminated from the body; the body lacks a water storage mechanism.

 Drinking Water During Ramadan

An Official Egyptian Warning Against the "Suhoor Water" Myth... and a Doctor Explains

While millions of people around the world are searching for ways to fast healthily during Ramadan, the Egyptian Ministry of Health has confirmed that drinking excessive amounts of water during Suhoor, under the pretext that it will benefit the body during the daytime fast, is inaccurate and unscientific.

In a statement issued on Saturday, the Ministry emphasized that drinking water is essential for maintaining the body's balance and health during Ramadan, especially given the long fasting hours and high temperatures on some days. However, it cautioned that the belief that drinking large quantities of water all at once during Suhoor will prevent thirst the following day is inaccurate.

All at Once

In this context, Dr. Magdy Nazih, a consultant in health education at the National Nutrition Institute, explained that the body's water needs should be distributed throughout the period between Iftar (breaking the fast) and Suhoor, rather than relying on drinking large quantities all at once before dawn.

He pointed out that the best approach is to drink a glass of water approximately every hour between Iftar (breaking the fast) and Suhoor (pre-dawn meal), allowing the body to gradually meet its needs. This helps achieve balanced hydration, maintains blood fluidity, and supports efficient blood circulation and various bodily functions during fasting hours.

Drinking Excessive Water at Suhoor is Unnecessary

Dr. Nazih also emphasized that the stomach cannot retain water for extended periods. He noted that excess water is quickly eliminated through urine because the body does not have a mechanism for storing water, contrary to popular belief. He added that abnormal fluid retention is a medical condition requiring evaluation and is not an indication of benefiting from drinking large quantities of water.

(Illustrative image of water consumption during Ramadan)
                                      

Furthermore, he pointed out that drinking excessive amounts of water only at Suhoor, especially within a single hour, will not achieve the desired benefit, as most of it is excreted in a short period without reducing thirst during the day. He concluded by emphasizing that moderation and regulating water intake, along with eating a balanced pre-dawn meal that is low in salt and rich in vegetables, is the ideal way to fast healthily and safely.