What is Iftar and Suhoor?

During the month of Ramadan, the words “Iftar” and “Suhoor” are thrown around quite a bit. So you’re probably wondering, what exactly do they mean? 

Fasting is one of the five pillars of the Islamic faith, and during the Islamic holy month of Ramadan, Muslims fast every day from sunrise to sunset. “Iftar” and “Suhoor” are Ramadan 101 terms and below, we explain what they mean.

What is Iftar?

The meal you enjoy after a long day of fasting, right when the adhan calls for Maghrib prayer, is called Iftar. It is the meal eaten after sunset to break your fast. 

For Iftar, the fast is usually broken with dates, water, fruits or something small. Muslims quickly commence Maghrib prayer before returning back to enjoy other food. 

What is Suhoor?

Suhoor is the pre-fasting meal you eat right before sunrise. 

As it’s important to equip your body with the right nutrients and healthy food that will keep it energized for a full day of fasting, suhoor is a vital part of a fasting Muslim’s day. 

It may be tempting to sleep through suhoor, especially if you have to wake up early for work. However, waking up early and having a suhoor will help you feel more energized rather than sleeping more. 

Having a suhoor that contains slower digesting carbohydrates, protein, and healthy fats will help you feel fuller throughout the day. A great suhoor that includes all of these is Overnight Oats.