Can You Drink Coffee While Fasting?
Share
If youβre following a fasting routine β whether itβsΒ intermittent fasting, a fasting period for health reasons, or a religious fast β you may be wondering: can you drink coffee while fasting?
The short answer is: yes, usually β but it depends on the type of fast youβre doing.
This guide breaks down when coffee while fasting is perfectly acceptable, when it may break a fast, how coffee consumption affects fasting windows, and the best low-caffeine and decaf options from The Coffee Connect.
β Is Coffee Allowed During a Fasting Window?
For most people practising intermittent fasting, cups of black coffee are considered safe during a fasting window because they contain small amounts of calories.
You can explore how caffeine levels compare using our guide:
π How Much Caffeine Is in a Cup of Coffee
So for many people practising fasting for weight loss or metabolic health benefits, drinking coffee can support the routine.
β οΈ When Coffee Will Break a Fast β and Why the Type of Fast Matters
Not all fasts are the same:
1. Intermittent Fasting
Black coffee or unsweetened decaf is allowed β it wonβt break your fast.
Learn more about caffeine differences:
π Does Decaf Coffee Have Caffeine?
2. Religious Fasting
Coffee will break a fast, as most require a water-only fasting window.
3. Medical Fasts
Some require strict water-only intake β in these cases, black coffee may not be permitted.
β When Coffee Is Fine
β Good Choices During an Intermittent Fasting Window
-
Black coffee
-
Unsweetened decaf
-
Flavoured beans brewed without caloric additives
If you want a smooth, low-acid black coffee for fasting, try:
π House Blend Coffee
π Continental Blend Coffee
π« High-Calorie Options to Avoid
-
Lattes, cappuccinos, flat whites
-
Coffee with milk, cream, sugar, syrups
-
Bulletproof coffee
-
Anything adding significant calories
Curious how these drinks differ?
π What Is a Flat White Coffee?
π What Is a Macchiato Coffee?
β οΈ Caffeine, Sensitivity & Stomach Issues During a Fast
If fasting upsets your stomach, a low-acid coffee may help:
π Is Coffee Acidic? | Low-Acid Coffee Tips & Bean Guide
People sensitive to caffeine may also prefer decaf β especially during long fasting periods.
π« Decaf & Low-Caffeine Options for a Fasting-Friendly Routine
Here are our top picks that pair well with fasting:
Browse them all here:
π Decaf Coffee Beans Collection
For sampler packs (great for fasting-friendly testing):
π Coffee Sampler Packs Collection
π§ Why Many People Use Coffee to Support Fasting
Coffeeβs natural properties may enhance the benefits of fasting, offering:
-
Appetite suppression
-
Antioxidant support
-
Mental alertness
-
Improved adherence to fasting windows
If you prefer a naturally sweeter, gentle brew during fasting periods, try:
π Ethiopian Breeze Coffee
π Costa Rica SHB Coffee
β οΈ Who Should Limit or Avoid Coffee During a Fast
Coffee may not be ideal if you:
-
Have acid reflux or digestive issues
-
Are caffeine-sensitive
-
Are undertaking a religious or water-only fast
-
Have certain metabolic conditions like type 2 diabetes
In these cases, consider switching to decaf.
π Related Reading from The Coffee Connect
β Final Thoughts: Can You Drink Coffee While Fasting?
For most people following intermittent fasting, black or decaf coffee is absolutely fine β it wonβt break your fast and may complement many fasting benefits.
Just remember:
-
Intermittent fasting β coffee is allowed
-
Religious fasting β coffee breaks a fast
-
Medical fasting β follow water-only rules
-
Sensitive stomach? Choose low-acid or decaf
-
Sensitive to caffeine? Try Swiss Water or Sugar Cane decaf