Topic

Ramadan & Fasting

Fasting rules, what breaks the fast, long summer days and Ramadan at work or school. Short, honest answers for new Muslims.

Do I have to fast Ramadan in my first year as a Muslim?

Yes, if you're a healthy adult. Normal exemptions apply, and if you convert mid-Ramadan you fast the remaining days only.

No, flavored and sugar-free gum break the fast for most scholars. Here's why, plus mints, nicotine gum, and what if you chewed by mistake.

No. Swallowing your own saliva never breaks your fast. Here's what about phlegm, tasting food, wudu water and eating by mistake.

Yes, as long as you don't swallow toothpaste. Miswak is a sunnah even while fasting. Here's a simple Ramadan routine for clean teeth.