You’re fasting, and that means no food. But what about drinks?
Thankfully, there are plenty of drinks and beverages that won’t break your fast. Many of them have additional benefits to help you stay on track and to support your health.
Let’s take a look!
Water
That one’s a no-brainer, right?
We suggest that you aim for around 64 ounces of water a day, and after that, drink to thirst.
But sometimes plain water gets boring. Here’s a few other options you can try:
- Sparkling mineral water – Add some electrolytes and a dash of ACV for a yummy, fizzy drink!
- Infused water – You can infuse your water with fruit as long as you don’t squeeze the fruit into the water
- Lemon/lime water – These are okay to actually squeeze into your water, but we’re talking a slice, not an entire lemon or lime
- Flavored sparkling water – As long as it does not have any sugars or sweeteners it should be okay. Be aware though that some people do get an insulin spike even with natural flavors
Tea
Most teas are okay to drink during the fast.
You can have black or green tea, but do note that many people experience nausea if they have these on an empty stomach.
Herbal teas are easier on the tummy, and there are many to choose from.
Of course you will want to avoid adding any sugars or sweeteners.
Have you checked out our new Fasting Tea? It’s formulated especially for Extended and Intermittent Fasters!
Our herbal infusion has a rich, satisfying taste and is designed to help sustain you throughout your fast. Go grab some!
Coffee
Coffee is almost like a holy grail in the fasting community. We love our coffee!
And the good news is, you don’t have to give it up.
You can have your coffee caffeinated or decaffeinated, and you can even have a little fat in it if you want.
One tablespoon of heavy cream or butter in your coffee won’t break your fast (if you are fasting for weight loss).
A sprinkle or two of cinnamon also works a treat. Cinnamon has been shown to boost metabolism and promote weight loss. Win/win!
If you don’t care for hot drinks, try iced coffee!
But again, make sure there are no added sugars or sweeteners.
Pickle Juice
Try a few sips of pickle juice.
It’s basically just sodium, so it can give you a refreshing boost of energy when you need it.
And the salty taste is like a party in your mouth!
Check your label to make sure there’s no added sugar.
ACV (Apple Cider Vinegar)
Apple Cider Vinegar (with the mother) can be added to your water or tea.
It has tons of health benefits and can help with weight loss.
Check out our previous article for more information on all the benefits of ACV.
Bone Broth or Veggie Broth
Not technically a drink, but it’s a liquid form, so we thought we’d include it here.
Try to make your own if you can, and think in terms of sips, not bowlfuls.
Bone broth or veggie broth can really help you push through when it gets tough.
What should I NOT drink during the fast?
Caution with diet sodas!
We know, they don’t have any calories!
But it’s not calories that we’re concerned with. It’s insulin.
World leading expert on fasting, Dr. Fung says that artificial sweeteners, and even natural sweeteners like Stevia, can spike insulin even higher than regular table sugar!
Plus many people experience increased hunger and cravings when they consume diet sodas during the fast.
If you really want one, save it for your eating window.
Alcoholic beverages are a no!
Alcoholic drinks will break your fast.
And even if they didn’t, they would make it really difficult for you in terms of managing hunger and cravings.
No juices!
These are loaded with sugar and will definitely break your fast.
Please note:
When we say something “won’t break your fast” we’re referring to fasting for the purposes of fat loss.
What we mean is that it won’t cause an insulin spike.
If you are fasting for increased autophagy, anything besides plain water and plain coffee or tea will likely interfere with autophagy.
Fasting doesn’t have to mean boring
We hope that our list of fasting approved beverages will make the fast a little more enjoyable for you!
Author: Roo Black
Roo is a fasting coach with over 5 years of experience. She leads the admin team of the Official Fasting for Weight Loss Facebook group – one of the largest fasting communities on social media with over 125,000 members. We highly recommend this group for anyone who is looking for fasting advice or coaching.
