Why Don’t Mormons Drink Coffee? A Clear, Respectful Explanation
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If you’ve ever wondered why Mormons don’t drink coffee, you’re not alone. Many people notice that members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church) avoid coffee and tea, and the reason is rooted in their religious health code.
This guide explains — respectfully and accurately — why Mormons don’t drink coffee, what teachings this comes from, and how it affects daily life.
⭐ Why Don’t Mormons Drink Coffee?
Mormons do not drink coffee because of a health code known as the Word of Wisdom, a revelation given in 1833 and recorded in LDS scripture (Doctrine and Covenants Section 89).
The Word of Wisdom instructs members to avoid “hot drinks”, which the early leaders of the church specifically interpreted to mean:
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Coffee
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Tea made from the tea plant (black, green, white, oolong)
This guideline is followed as a matter of faith, health, and obedience.
Is It About Caffeine?
Interestingly, no — the rule is not primarily about caffeine.
Mormons can drink caffeinated soft drinks or cola if they choose.
Coffee and tea are avoided because they are specifically mentioned in the Word of Wisdom, not because of their caffeine levels.
If you're curious about caffeine content, you might find this helpful:
What About Herbal Tea?
Herbal teas are generally allowed because they are not made from the actual tea plant (Camellia sinensis). However, individual members may have personal preferences or stricter interpretations.
Do Mormons Avoid All Hot Drinks?
No — they do not avoid all hot beverages.
Hot chocolate, herbal infusions, and warm grain drinks are widely consumed.
The restriction is specifically tied to:
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Coffee
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Traditional tea
Do All Mormons Follow This Rule?
Most LDS members choose to follow the Word of Wisdom closely, as it is considered a requirement for temple attendance. However, like any religious practice, individual adherence can vary.
Why the Word of Wisdom Matters
For Latter-day Saints, avoiding coffee is part of a holistic lifestyle emphasising:
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Good physical health
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Mental clarity
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Spiritual discipline
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Respect for divine guidance
It's less about the drink itself and more about living a faith-based commitment.
Respectful Note
This blog explains the practice respectfully and factually. People’s choices about food and drink are personal, and this guideline is simply part of LDS religious life.
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Conclusion
Mormons don’t drink coffee because of a religious health code known as the Word of Wisdom, which specifically instructs members to avoid coffee and tea. The practice is rooted in faith, health, and obedience rather than caffeine concerns. Understanding this helps clarify an often-asked question about LDS lifestyle.