Even though Ramadan is observed annually by hundreds of millions of Muslims around the world, misconceptions and myths surrounding the Holy month still prevail.
From not being allowed to eat or drink at all for 29-30 days, to believing that the month is only about fasting and food, here are a few Ramadan myths that must be debunked:
Myth 1: We can drink water
Nope, water is not allowed during hours of fasting.
Myth 2: No food or water for 30 days
Please repeat after me: The fast takes place from dawn to sunset, outside of that, people can have all the food and drinks they want.
Myth 3: Everybody fasts — no matter what
Again, not true.
For those who are senile, ill, pregnant, breastfeeding, or traveling, it's generally considered OK not to fast.
Myth 4: Ramadan is only about fasting and food
While fasting is an important aspect of the holy month, Ramadan is about so much more.
The Holy month is also about spirituality, family, unity, peace and giving.
Myth 5: Ramadan falls at the same time every year
"The exact dates of Ramadan change every year because Islam follows a lunar calendar, which means that each month begins with the sighting of a new moon."
And because lunar months are shorter than solar months used in the western Gregorian calendar, Islamic holidays begin on different days each year.
The start of Ramadan shifts around 11 days each year and the month can fall in any of the year's four seasons.
Myth 6: We can’t brush our teeth during fast
Wrong again.
Myth 7: We’re not allowed to swallow our own saliva
Myth 8: Fasting helps us lose weight
HAH! We wish.
Myth 9: All medical treatment breaks fast
Well, not all medical treatment. If the meds are administered intravenously, they do not constitute a kind of nourishment and hence do not break the fast.
Bonus outrageous claim
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