Do Not Drink All at Once When Breaking Fast: Safe Ways to Meet Fluid Intake During Ramadan

Fluid requirements must still be met during fasting even though the body does not receive liquid intake for more than 12 hours.

Dr Risky Dwi Rahayu, M.Gizi, Sp.K.O, a sports medicine specialist at Pondok Indah Bintaro Jaya Hospital, stated that the fluid requirements for adults generally amount to approximately two litres per day and must still be fulfilled during Ramadan.

“Fluid requirements remain at approximately two litres per day, only the distribution needs to be regulated between breaking fast and the pre-dawn meal,” said Dr Risky during an online press conference on Wednesday (18/2/2026).

According to her, the timing of fluid consumption is key to preventing the body from experiencing dehydration during fasting.

Dr Risky recommended distributing fluid intake gradually rather than consuming large amounts at once. As an example, three glasses of water can be consumed when breaking fast, three glasses after evening prayers or in the evening, and two glasses during the pre-dawn meal.

This pattern helps the body absorb fluids optimally without making the stomach feel uncomfortably full. Drinking large quantities all at once is actually ineffective because the body cannot store excess fluid instantly.

Common symptoms of inadequate hydration include weakness, difficulty concentrating, and mild headaches approaching the time to break fast. If this condition occurs, physical activity should be reduced to avoid worsening fatigue. Adequate fluid intake helps maintain cognitive function and physical endurance.

Caffeinated beverages such as coffee and tea have a diuretic effect that increases urine production. Excessive consumption without being balanced with plain water can accelerate fluid loss from the body.