The Islamic Way of Eating: Sunnah Etiquettes, Duas, and Daily Practices

The Islamic way of eating is not just about the food we consume; it is also about the way we approach it. It reflects our manners, gratitude, and connection with Allah. In Islam, eating is considered an act of worship when done according to Sunnah. 

From saying Bismillah before meals to sitting in a humble posture, the Islamic way of eating and drinking encourages mindfulness, moderation, and hygiene.

Whether you're embracing the Islamic way of eating food for spiritual growth or learning about the way of eating in Islam during pregnancy, this guide is for you. You might simply want to adopt the Islamic way of sitting while eating as part of your daily routine.

Whatever your goal, this guide walks you through the essential etiquettes, duas, and Sunnah-based practices that make eating a more conscious and blessed act.

And if you are looking to align your lifestyle with your values, explore DEENIN’s curated collection of faith-inspired essentials designed for the modern Muslim.

Why Eating Matters in Islam

In Islam, eating is more than just fulfilling a physical need. It's an act deeply tied to faith, gratitude, and discipline. The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ taught that how we eat reflects our manners, humility, and consciousness of Allah. When done with the right intentions and etiquette, even eating becomes an act of worship.

The Islamic way of eating food encourages moderation, hygiene, and thankfulness.

Allah says in the Qur’an:

“O children of Adam! Take your adornment at every masjid and eat and drink, but be not excessive. Indeed, He likes not those who commit excess.”
(Surah Al-A’raf 7:31)

This verse reflects the balance Islam encourages, enjoying food but without gluttony. Following the Islamic way of eating connects believers to a broader lifestyle of self-control, mindfulness, and submission to divine guidance.

The way of eating in Islam also emphasizes consuming halal (lawful) and tayyib (pure, wholesome) food. Eating halal isn’t just about avoiding prohibited items; it’s about consuming food that nourishes the body and uplifts the soul.

The Islamic Way of Eating: Sunnah Practices

The Islamic way of eating is deeply rooted in the Sunnah, the teachings and practices of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ. These practices not only reflect the best manners at the table but also promote hygiene, mindfulness, and health.

Here are the core Sunnahs to follow when eating:

1. Begin with Bismillah (In the name of Allah)

Before taking the first bite, say: "Bismillah". If one forgets, it is Sunnah to say:

"Bismillahi awwalahu wa akhirahu"
(In the name of Allah, at the beginning and at the end)

This simple phrase turns the act of eating into worship, brings blessings into the food, and reminds us that all provision is from Allah.

2. Eat with the Right Hand

The Prophet ﷺ said:

“When one of you eats, let him eat with his right hand…”
(Sahih Muslim)

Using the right hand for eating and drinking is a clear Sunnah and a sign of respect and cleanliness in Islam.

3. Eat From What Is Directly In Front of You

The Prophet ﷺ advised to eat from the portion that is directly in front of you rather than reaching across the plate or bowl.

“Eat from what is in front of you.”
(Bukhari & Muslim)

This encourages discipline, avoids greed, and promotes good manners, especially when sharing food with others.

4. Eat in Moderation

One of the most powerful teachings related to food in Islam is moderation. The Prophet ﷺ said:

“No human ever filled a vessel worse than the stomach. Sufficient for any son of Adam are some morsels to keep his back straight...”
(Ibn Majah)

This hadith reminds us that the Islamic way of eating and drinking discourages gluttony and encourages eating only as much as needed—one-third for food, one-third for water, and one-third for air.

5. Do Not Criticize Food

The Prophet ﷺ never spoke ill of food. If he liked something, he ate it. If not, he would simply leave it. This teaches gratitude and respect for the blessings we receive.

These practices aren't just religious. They have real-life benefits. Eating slowly, being thankful, using clean hands, and portion control are all proven to support better digestion and healthier habits. Following the Islamic way of eating food helps Muslims stay physically and spiritually well.

 Islamic Way of Sitting While Eating

How we sit during meals is not just a cultural habit, it’s part of the Islamic way of eating, rooted in the Sunnah of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ. While modern dining often involves chairs and tables, the Prophet ﷺ demonstrated a more humble, mindful posture when eating.

1. Sitting on the Floor in a Humble Posture

The most well-known Sunnah posture is sitting on the floor while eating. The Prophet ﷺ used to sit in a humble, grounded position, often described as sitting with one knee up or squatting gently with weight shifted forward.

“I do not eat while reclining.”
(Sahih al-Bukhari)

This reflects humility and discourages pride or laziness during meals. Sitting on the floor also naturally encourages slower eating, better digestion, and mindfulness of one’s portions.

2. Avoiding Reclining While Eating

Reclining (leaning back or lying down) while eating is discouraged in Islam. The Prophet ﷺ explicitly avoided reclining while eating, as it signifies arrogance and may lead to overindulgence.

Reclining while eating also has medical downsides. It can negatively affect digestion and cause discomfort. The Islamic way of sitting while eating thus promotes both spiritual etiquette and physical health.

3. Benefits of Sunnah Sitting Style

• Encourages better digestion by aligning the body naturally

• Promotes mindfulness and portion control

• Reduces the risk of overeating

• Reinforces humility and gratitude

• Aligns the body in a posture conducive to sharing meals in unity

Incorporating the Islamic way of sitting while eating, even occasionally can help us reconnect with the Sunnah, improve our eating habits, and bring more barakah (blessing) into our meals.

Islamic Way of Eating and Drinking

The Islamic way of eating and drinking is rooted in cleanliness, mindfulness, and gratitude. It encompasses not only what we eat, but how we eat, how we drink, and how we behave before, during, and after meals. These etiquettes, taught by the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, are timeless and incredibly practical even today.

1. Drink While Sitting

It is from the Sunnah to sit while drinking. The Prophet ﷺ strongly encouraged this practice as it reflects humility and reduces the risk of drinking too quickly or excessively.

“None of you should drink while standing, and if anyone forgets, he must vomit.”
(Sahih Muslim)

While it's permissible in specific situations, the general rule is to drink while seated, as it is more composed and healthier.

2. Drink in Three Sips

Instead of gulping down an entire drink in one go, the Prophet ﷺ taught us to sip in three breaths, saying Bismillah at the beginning and Alhamdulillah after finishing.

“Drink in three gulps, and do not drink in one gulp like a camel. When you drink, say ‘Bismillah’, and when you finish, say ‘Alhamdulillah’.”
(Tirmidhi)

This promotes mindfulness, prevents choking, and allows the body to absorb water more gradually.

3. Avoid Blowing Into Food or Drink

The Prophet ﷺ discouraged blowing into food or drink to cool it down, as it could spread bacteria or impurities, especially if eating with others.

4. Use of Miswak After Eating

Maintaining oral hygiene is an essential part of Islamic etiquette. After eating, it is recommended to clean the mouth, preferably using a miswak or toothbrush.

The Prophet ﷺ said:
“Were it not that I might burden the believers, I would have commanded them to use the miswak at every prayer.”
(Bukhari)

Though not directly part of the eating process, this habit reinforces cleanliness and respect for the blessing of food.

5. Sharing Food and Eating Together

Eating together is a source of barakah (blessing). The Prophet ﷺ said:

“Eat together and do not eat separately, for the blessing is in being together.”
(Ibn Majah)

Sharing meals strengthens relationships, promotes unity, and helps avoid wastage.

Islamic Way of Eating During Pregnancy

Pregnancy is a time of both physical transformation and immense spiritual responsibility. In Islam, the womb is honored as a place of divine trust, where life is nurtured by Allah’s will. Therefore, the Islamic way of eating during pregnancy is not just about nutrition, but about intention, gratitude, and responsibility toward the unborn child.

1. Choose Halal and Tayyib (Pure) Food

The Qur’an repeatedly emphasizes the importance of consuming food that is both halal (permissible) and tayyib (wholesome, pure).

“O mankind, eat from whatever is on earth [that is] lawful and good...”
(Surah Al-Baqarah 2:168)

During pregnancy, what a mother eats not only affects her own health but also directly contributes to the development and well-being of her baby. A mindful, halal, and balanced diet is essential for both body and soul.

2. Make Eating an Act of Worship

Pregnancy is an ideal time to turn everyday actions like eating into acts of worship. Starting meals with Bismillah, eating with the right hand, and saying Alhamdulillah after finishing all bring blessings to the food. According to the Sunnah, this brings barakah (blessing) and spiritual protection.

3. Eat in Moderation, Not Excess

Pregnancy is not a license to overeat. The Prophet ﷺ emphasized moderation in all things, including food:

“Eat and drink, but do not be excessive. Indeed, He does not like those who commit excess.”
(Surah Al-A’raf 7:31)

The idea is to eat enough to nourish without burdening the body, keeping digestion smooth and energy levels balanced. Overeating can lead to discomfort and fatigue, especially in the later stages of pregnancy.

4. Include Sunnah Foods

The following prophetic foods offer both spiritual and physical benefits for pregnant women:

• Dates – Excellent for energy, digestion, and even labor preparation. Maryam (AS) was advised to eat dates during childbirth (Surah Maryam 19:25).

• Honey – A natural sweetener rich in antioxidants and energy.

• Milk – A symbol of purity and nourishment.

• Olives & Olive Oil – Highly recommended for internal health and skin nourishment.

• Black Seed (Nigella Sativa) – The Prophet ﷺ said it is a cure for every disease except death.

Incorporating these foods into a pregnancy diet aligns with both faith and nutrition science.

5. Recite Duas for Protection & Well-Being

Eating during pregnancy becomes even more powerful when paired with heartfelt supplication. Some helpful duas include:

• For the baby’s health:

“O my Lord, grant me from Yourself a good offspring. Indeed, You are the Hearer of supplication.”
(Surah Aal-Imran 3:38)

• For ease in pregnancy:

“My Lord, make it easy, and do not make it difficult. My Lord, bring it to a good end.”

The Islamic way of eating during pregnancy is holistic. It cares for the mother’s body, nourishes the baby’s soul, and invites Allah’s mercy at every stage. It’s a time when even a bite of food, taken with the right intention, can carry immense reward.

General Etiquette & Duas for Meals

The Islamic way of eating isn’t just about physical actions. It’s also about manners (adab) and remembering Allah throughout the meal. Simple daily habits like making du’a, showing gratitude, and respecting food are powerful spiritual acts that bring barakah (blessing) into our lives.

Here are some essential etiquettes and supplications every Muslim should know and practice:

1. Dua Before Eating

Always begin meals by saying:

"Bismillah"
(In the name of Allah)

If you forget and remember after starting, say:

"Bismillahi awwalahu wa akhirahu"
(In the name of Allah, at the beginning and the end)

This turns your meal into an act of worship and invites blessings into the food.

2. Dua After Eating

After finishing the meal, the Prophet ﷺ would recite:

"Alhamdulillahilladhi at’amani hatha, wa razaqanihi min ghayri hawlin minni wa la quwwah."
(All praise is for Allah who fed me this and provided it for me, without any strength or power from myself.)
(Abu Dawood)

This expression of gratitude ensures that we acknowledge the ultimate source of all provision—Allah.

3. Use the Right Hand

As covered earlier, always eat and drink with your right hand. The left hand is discouraged for consumption, as per Sunnah.

4. Avoid Waste and Show Respect for Food

The Prophet ﷺ emphasized not wasting even a single morsel of food:

“The food of one person is enough for two...”
(Bukhari & Muslim)

• Don’t overfill your plate

• Finish what’s served

• Pick up any crumbs and eat them

Even small acts like wiping a bowl clean or sharing leftovers can be acts of reward.

5. Don’t Criticize Food

If you don’t like the taste of something, simply leave it—don’t complain. The Prophet ﷺ never spoke badly about food, setting a beautiful example of patience and gratitude.

6. Eat Together Whenever Possible

Eating in groups brings blessings. The Prophet ﷺ said:

“Eat together, for the blessing is in the congregation.”
(Abu Dawood)

Sharing meals strengthens family bonds, encourages gratefulness, and helps distribute food more fairly.

In every bite and every sip, the Islamic way of eating and drinking teaches us to be thankful, clean, and conscious of the Creator. Even a routine like eating becomes a daily act of remembrance.

Scientific Benefits of the Sunnah Way of Eating

What makes the Islamic way of eating so remarkable is that it not only aligns with spiritual values but also mirrors many modern health and nutrition guidelines. The practices taught by the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ over 1,400 years ago have been shown to offer real physiological benefits. 

Here are some science-backed advantages of following the way of eating in Islam:

1. Eating in Moderation = Better Digestion and Weight Control

The Prophet ﷺ advised that one should fill the stomach with one-third food, one-third water, and leave one-third for air. This aligns perfectly with today’s health advice on portion control.

• Benefits: Reduces bloating, supports weight loss, prevents overeating, and maintains blood sugar levels.

2. Eating Slowly and Mindfully Aids Digestion

The Sunnah encourages eating with calmness, chewing thoroughly, and avoiding haste.

• Benefits: Enhances nutrient absorption, prevents acid reflux, and allows the brain time to register fullness, thus preventing overeating.

3. Sitting on the Floor Helps Posture and Digestion

The Sunnah sitting posture is cross-legged or with one leg upright. It keeps the stomach slightly compressed, encouraging mindful eating and aiding digestion.

• Benefits: Encourages proper spinal alignment, strengthens core muscles, and can lead to a more humble and focused eating experience.

4. Drinking in Sips Improves Hydration and Kidney Function

The Prophet ﷺ drank water in three breaths/sips instead of gulping it all at once.

• Benefits: Prevents bloating and hiccups, helps the body absorb water more efficiently, and avoids stressing the kidneys.

5. Avoiding Waste Builds Environmental Consciousness

Islam encourages finishing what’s on your plate, not wasting food, and respecting every morsel.

• Benefits: Reduces food waste, supports sustainability, and builds habits of thankfulness and minimalism.

6. Use of Natural, Sunnah Foods Boosts Immunity

Foods like dates, honey, olives, black seed (nigella sativa), and milk are not only Sunnah-approved but also loaded with nutrients.

• Benefits:

• Dates: High in fiber and iron

• Honey: Antibacterial and healing properties

• Black seed: Anti-inflammatory, boosts immune function

• Olive oil: Supports heart health

Conclusion: Eating with Gratitude and Purpose

The Islamic way of eating is far more than a list of etiquettes. It is a complete, beautiful system that transforms a basic human act into a moment of worship, reflection, and self-discipline. From the way we sit and sip, to the duas we recite and the portions we take, every step is designed to bring us closer to Allah ﷻ and to a more mindful, balanced life.

In following the way of eating in Islam, we learn to:

• Eat with intention and gratitude

• Avoid excess and waste

• Treat food as a blessing and a trust

• Embrace humility and share with others

• Align our lifestyle with both Sunnah and science

Whether you're applying these habits daily, exploring the Islamic way of eating during pregnancy, or simply seeking a cleaner, more purposeful routine, remember: Islam doesn’t just teach us what to eat, it teaches us how to eat healthy, and why it matters.

By practicing the Islamic way of eating and drinking, we not only nourish our bodies but elevate our souls.