Fasting in Islam is total abstain from Eat and drink from dawn to dusk. People from non arab countries where there is no reduced working hours also fast whole month while they do their routine job. As some one said, it is sacrifice in the path of faith. I feel too hungry by 10 am when I miss breakfast in the morning on normal days. But when I fast, no such feeling comes into my mind. When you do something in dedication, your mind is storng and the WILL will strengthen your body to stand against all temptations.

Mr. Paul, there is no option to have water during fasting. You can even fast with light food at early hours(suhoor)like dates.