Can you have flavored coffee on intermittent fasting? (is flavored coffee okay when on intermittent fasting + more information)
As a coffee addict on a weight loss journey, can you have flavored black coffee on intermittent fasting?
No, you cannot have flavored coffee while fasting, as it will break your fast. Flavored coffee contains ingredients with calories that will disrupt the whole process. 2020 was challenging for me as I was declared obese and unhealthy. When we went on a men’s retreat at Mt. Kilimanjaro in Africa, the reality of being unhealthy hit me even more. Afterward, I opted for a weight loss journey, and intermittent fasting was on my list.
A few months later, I had cut down incredibly, but because I have always been a coffee lover, I craved caffeine in my system. I consulted my fitness instructor, and the fitness journey became more successful sometime later. This article will guide you through how to consume your coffee, even during intermittent fasting.
Table of Contents
What can you drink coffee while on intermittent fasting?
Black coffee is the best option for what type of coffee you can consume while fasting. The goal is to consume something that adds zero calories to your system. If you start including additives such as sugar, cream, and milk, then you will have done zero work.
Still, some insist they cannot drink plain black coffee with no sweeteners. Well, research shows that the following additives in your coffee will not break your fast:
- Nutmeg
- Cinnamon
- Cocoa
- Low-calorie sugar sweeteners such as Splenda
Despite what research says, ensure you put these additives in small amounts in your drink.
Will flavored coffee break my intermittent fast?
Yes. Flavored coffee will break an intermittent fast. It includes creamers or milk and other ingredients that will possibly have sugar sweeteners. The point of intermittent fasting is to avoid food and drinks that will increase your calorie intake for a certain period and allow your body to relax.
Some people believe that consuming a small amount of milk or sugar in your coffee will not cause any harm. Quite the contrary, though.
How long after an intermittent fast can I have coffee?
There is no specific time to enjoy a cup of coffee while on your fast. Ensure you have no additives in your beverage to avoid breaking your fast. Caffeine can be an energy boost even on an empty stomach, but you should always be careful and watch out for how your body reacts before drinking another cup.
FAQ Section
Is decaf coffee okay during intermittent fasting?
Absolutely. Decaf coffee is fat-free, without calories, and there’s little or no caffeine in the coffee. There is thus no risk of taking your decaf as you fast.
How often can I have coffee when on intermittent fasting?
Research shows that up to 400 mg of caffeine consumed by humans a day is safe. This sums to around 3 to 4 cups of coffee. You can take this daily, and it will even fasten your fasting process as it will activate autophagy in your body.