Can you have coffee when fasting? Yes, plain black coffee with no additives is generally considered acceptable during most fasting windows. It contains minimal calories and is widely regarded as compatible with intermittent fasting. The catch is always what goes into your cup, as adding certain ingredients can change how your body responds.
Eat during certain hours, fast during certain hours; sounds simple and straightforward, right? But for those who are just hopping on the intermittent fasting (IF) bandwagon, there’s bound to be many questions. How to survive the hunger pangs that are totally testing your willpower would probably top the list.
One of the most common queries that arise is whether or not you can have your beloved cup of joe while fasting. After all, coffee seems to be the lifeline for so many of us! The good news is, you don’t have to give up your morning ritual just yet.
Coffee, when consumed in moderation and without certain enhancers, can actually be a friendly companion during your fasting window. But there are a few caveats to consider. We answer all your IF and coffee questions below.
Every fasting experience is personal. How coffee affects your fast depends on the type of fast, your individual health, and what you add to your cup. If you have any specific health considerations, speak with a healthcare provider before starting any fasting protocol.
Whether drinking coffee breaks your fast depends almost entirely on what is in your cup. If you enjoy drinking coffee during fasting windows, taking it black and unsweetened is generally the way to go. This version has minimal calories and is widely recommended for those looking to maintain their fasting state (1). On the other hand, if you prefer coffee with cream, you introduce a spike in calories that changes the equation entirely.
Essentially, drinking coffee will break your fast if:
Remember, the overarching idea of fasting is to restrict calorie intake and allow your body to experience a specific metabolic state. This means any caloric additions to your black coffee when fasting could change your experience.
| Item | Breaks Fast? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Black coffee | No | Generally considered acceptable for most fasting approaches (1). |
| Coffee with milk | Yes | Contains calories and macronutrients (3). |
| Coffee with cream | Yes | High in fat and calories (3). |
| Coffee with sugar | Yes | Triggers an insulin response and contains calories (2). |
| Coffee with sweetener | Varies | Some artificial sweeteners may affect insulin levels (3). |
| Bulletproof coffee | Yes | Made with fats like butter, which add significant calories (4). |
| MCT coffee | Yes | Contains calories from medium-chain triglycerides (8). |
| Flavored syrup coffee | Yes | Often contains sugars or artificial sweeteners (3). |
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Drinking black coffee on an empty stomach is a popular choice for many people who practice intermittent fasting. They often find that it helps them navigate the hours before their eating window opens.
Some of the suggested benefits of consuming coffee for fasting revolve around how it makes the experience feel more manageable. Researchers have looked into how coffee on fasting schedules interacts with various bodily processes.
Black coffee is often utilized by people looking for a way to manage their appetite, which can be immensely beneficial during fasting hours. The caffeine in black coffee has been explored in some research for its association with leptin (9), a hormone that plays a role in how the body perceives fullness (10).
By potentially easing feelings of hunger, black coffee can make the fasting periods feel much more approachable. This can be especially helpful for those just starting out, as it assists in keeping common food cravings at bay. Furthermore, some research has suggested that coffee may be associated with increased satiation from meals (9).
Caffeine has been explored in some research for its association with thermogenic processes, which may involve increased metabolic activity. This means that your body might experience slight shifts in how it uses energy. Some research has explored whether caffeine-associated metabolic effects may interact with the metabolic state during fasting (11).
Additionally, the caffeine in black coffee is commonly used by people looking to support their physical performance (12). Because of this, enjoying a cup of coffee before a workout can be a popular choice if you are incorporating fasted workouts into your routine.
Enjoying black coffee while fasting is also commonly associated with how clear and focused you feel. The caffeine in coffee interacts with an inhibitory neurotransmitter in the brain known as adenosine (13).
Some research has explored associations between caffeine and various cognitive markers, though individual responses vary considerably (13). Many people report feeling a sense of improved alertness and a better overall mood when they include a moderate amount of coffee in their morning routine.
Black coffee contains a variety of antioxidants, which are compounds that have been studied for their role in the body. Some research has explored associations between regular coffee consumption and inflammatory markers and various health indicators (14), though findings are complex.
When consumed as part of a balanced routine, the antioxidants in black coffee are part of a larger picture of well-being. Some research has explored associations between coffee’s antioxidant content and oxidative stress markers (14), offering an interesting perspective on its long-term consumption.
| Benefit Area | Research Context | Evidence Status |
|---|---|---|
| Appetite | Explored for associations with satiety hormones like leptin (9). | Individual responses vary. |
| Metabolic Activity | Explored for associations with thermogenic processes (11). | Findings are complex. |
| Cognitive Markers | Explored for associations with memory and mood markers (13). | Individual responses vary. |
| Oxidative Stress | Explored for associations between antioxidant content and stress markers (13). | Findings are complex. |
Read more: 7 Tips for Making the Perfect Cup of Intermittent Fasting Coffee
Black unsweetened coffee is not palatable for everyone, and it can take some getting used to. If you are struggling to drink it plain, you might be wondering what you can put in your coffee while fasting without completely changing your routine.
While it is true that the strictest approaches call for only water, black coffee, and plain tea, there are a few options to consider. Depending on the specific type of fast you are observing, you may have some flexibility.
| Addition | Breaks Fast? | Recommended Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cinnamon | No | A small sprinkle | Adds flavor without calories. |
| Stevia | No | To taste | Generally considered acceptable. |
| Monk fruit | No | To taste | Generally considered acceptable. |
| MCT oil | Yes | N/A | Contains significant calories. |
| Milk | Yes | N/A | Contains calories and carbs. |
| Cream | Yes | N/A | High in fat and calories. |
| Sugar | Yes | N/A | Triggers an insulin response. |
| Flavored syrup | Yes | N/A | High in sugar and calories. |
Cinnamon: Adding a sprinkle of cinnamon to your drink black coffee while fasting routine can provide a subtle, natural sweetness and a comforting aroma without adding any calories. Cinnamon has been explored in some research for associations with blood glucose patterns (15), though findings vary.
Stevia or monk fruit sweetener: Stevia and monk fruit are calorie-free, naturally derived sweeteners that can add a hint of sweetness to your coffee during fasting. They have minimal impact on blood sugar levels and are generally considered acceptable by most fasting approaches for most people without specific health considerations (16).
MCT oil: MCT (medium-chain triglyceride) oil is a type of fat that is rapidly absorbed by the body. While some people use it for energy, it is important to note that adding MCT oil will break your fast due to its caloric content (8).
Remember, these additions are only suitable for those following highly modified or less strict fasting methods. For those adhering to stricter fasting guidelines, black, unsweetened coffee remains the standard choice.
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Yes, you can drink coffee with milk, but it is best to save it for your eating window if you are practicing intermittent fasting. The general idea behind fasting is to minimize your calorie consumption entirely during the fasting hours, and then focus on nutrient intake during your eating periods (17). When it comes to coffee when intermittent fasting, timing and moderation are the most important factors.
During your fasting window, sticking to black, unsweetened coffee is widely recommended. Any form of milk—whether it is full-fat, semi-skimmed, or skimmed—contains calories and macronutrients that have the potential to disrupt your fasting state. If you truly prefer milk in your coffee, consider adjusting your schedule so you can enjoy it during your eating window.
Similarly, if you prefer your coffee sweet, you should plan to consume those beverages during your eating times. Artificial sweeteners, though calorie-free, may still affect insulin levels (18), so many people choose to keep them in the eating window to maintain the structure of their routine.
For those exploring plant-based options, having coffee with oat milk is also perfectly fine during your eating window. Oat milk tends to be richer and creamier than some other plant-based milks, meaning it contains carbohydrates and calories that shift the body out of a fasting state (7).
Finally, the same principle applies if you prefer heavy cream. Cream is high in fat and calories and should be enjoyed during your feasting period. While all of these additives can make your morning cup more enjoyable, they should ideally be saved for your eating window to maintain the structure of your fasting window.
Staying properly hydrated is a massive part of making your fasting experience feel manageable and comfortable. Choosing the right liquids to drink while fasting can completely shift how you feel throughout the day. Below is a guide to some popular beverages that are generally considered acceptable during a fast.
| Drink | Breaks Fast? | Recommended? | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Water | No | Yes | Essential for hydration. |
| Sparkling water | No | Yes | A great calorie-free option. |
| Black coffee | No | Yes | Consume in moderation. |
| Green tea | No | Yes | Rich in antioxidants. |
| Herbal tea | No | Yes | Calming and calorie-free. |
| Bone broth | Yes (technically) | Varies | Contains calories, used in modified fasts. |
| ACV water | No | Yes | Dilute well. |
| Diet soda | Varies | Varies | Sweeteners may cause insulin responses. |
| Milk | Yes | No | Save for eating windows. |
| Juice | Yes | No | High in natural sugars. |
The simplest and most vital beverage to focus on is water. It is completely free of calories and plays a crucial role in supporting your body’s daily needs. Water supports normal kidney function and helps maintain electrolyte balance during fasting (19). Furthermore, prioritizing your decision to drink water while fasting can combat feelings of hunger and support your overall energy levels (20).
Green tea is another excellent beverage choice to include when you drink tea while fasting, primarily due to its minimal calorie content. It contains antioxidants, specifically catechins, which have been studied in various contexts. Some research has explored associations between green tea catechins and fat oxidation markers in certain contexts, though individual responses vary (21).
Read more: 20 Coffee With Cinnamon Benefits You Wish You Knew Earlier
Black coffee is considered a fasting-friendly beverage as long as it is consumed unsweetened. It is rich in antioxidants and is often enjoyed for the sense of alertness it provides (14). Some research has explored associations between coffee and metabolic markers during fasting, though responses are individual (1). Drinking while fasting with coffee should be done in moderation to keep caffeine levels balanced.
Bone broth is a savory liquid made by simmering animal bones and connective tissues. While it does contain some calories, it is sometimes used in highly modified fasting approaches because it is savory and comforting. It contains minerals, proteins, and amino acids that contribute to its nutritional profile (22).
Apple cider vinegar (ACV) mixed into water is another option that some people enjoy. Diluting one to two tablespoons of ACV in a large glass of water creates a tart, refreshing drink. ACV has been explored in some research for associations with blood glucose patterns (23), though findings are mixed. Always dilute it to protect your teeth from the acidity (24).
Herbal teas, such as chamomile or peppermint, are a wonderful, calming choice. They are calorie-free and can be enjoyed hot or cold. Chamomile and peppermint teas are both popular choices during fasting for their mild, caffeine-free profile. Some research has explored various associations with well-being (25), making them a comforting addition to your routine.
No, adding cream will technically break a strict fast due to its calorie and fat content. Cream contains significant energy that the body must process, which shifts you out of the fasting state. During a fasting window, it is best to avoid cream entirely. You can save it for your eating window, when you can fully enjoy coffee with cream as part of your regular intake.
No, sugar adds calories that will break your fast and trigger an insulin response. Even small amounts of sugar introduce energy that disrupts the metabolic state you are trying to maintain during intermittent fasting.
During your fasting window, you should stick to black or unsweetened coffee. Sweet coffee with sugar is a treat best saved for your designated eating window.
During a strict water fast, most protocols specify that you should consume water only, meaning black coffee deviates from this approach. Because coffee requires the body to process caffeine and other compounds, it is not technically pure water.
However, some modified fasting approaches do allow black coffee; it truly depends on the specific fast you are practicing.
The guidelines for religious Monday fasting vary considerably by tradition and personal practice. Most traditional religious fasts specify water only or allow very specific permitted items, which generally do not include coffee.
Because specific rules differ so widely by tradition and individual practice, consulting a spiritual or religious adviser is the most reliable approach to understand what is appropriate.
Can you have coffee when fasting? Yes, you certainly can. However, to maintain your fasting window’s structure and make sure coffee doesn’t disrupt it, all caloric additives like cream, milk, or sugar should be avoided during your fasted state. Save those additions for your eating window. Proper hydration remains essential, so be sure to include plenty of water, plain green tea, and herbal teas. By following these guidelines, you can enjoy coffee while keeping your fasting window intact.
Every fasting experience is personal. How coffee affects your fast depends on the type of fast, your individual health, and what you add to your cup. If you have any specific health considerations, speak with a healthcare provider before starting any fasting protocol.
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