Nutrition Pros Reveal: Is It OK to Drink Coffee During Fasting?

Coffee image

Expert opinion from Michael Colangelo

Master of Science (M.S.) in Nutrition · 15 years of experience · USA

Whether you can drink coffee during fasting depends on the purpose of your fast and the type of fast that is being practiced. If you are practicing intermittent fasting for example, black coffee is acceptable. Avoiding added calories from sugar and creamer is recommended. If you are fasting prior to surgery, then you should not consume coffee although it is okay to drink black coffee before common blood tests. Be certain to check with your doctor. If fasting for religious purposes, whether coffee is allowed depends on how rigorous or lenient the religious practice is.

Expert opinion from Iyanuoluwa Oyetunji

Master of Science in Medicine, specialization in Human Nutrition · 2 years of experience · South Africa

What food is allowed during period of fasting will be determined by the individual’s faith. However, on a general note, non-calorie containing food may be taken during fasting. Including, water, coffee, tea, other non-caloric containing drinks. Sometimes, even some supplements may be allowed. The individual’s faith taken precedence in any case.

→ See more questions and expert answers related to Coffee.

Expert opinion from Faith Seke

PhD, Agronomy and Crop Science (ongoing), Master’s degree, Food Science and Technology · 1 years of experience · South Africa

During fasting periods, you can consume moderate amounts of black coffee because it contains few calories and is unlikely to break your fast. Coffee, in fact, may boost the benefits of intermittent fasting, such as lower inflammation and enhanced cognitive performance.

Disclaimer: This is for information purpose only, and should not be considered as a substitute for medical expertise. These are opinions from an external panel of individual doctors or nutritionists and not to be considered as opinion of Microsoft. Please seek professional help regarding any health conditions or concerns. Medical advice varies across region. Advice from professionals outside your region should be used at your own discretion. Or you should contact a local health professional.