Does Coffee Break a Fast? Here’s What You Should Know

At Strava Craft Coffee, we’re big fans of mindful mornings—and for many of us, that starts with two things: a cup of coffee and a wellness ritual like intermittent fasting. But if you’re sticking to a fast, you might be wondering: does coffee break a fast?

Let’s break it down, bean by bean.

What Actually Breaks a Fast?

Fasting typically means avoiding foods and drinks that trigger a metabolic response—especially anything that spikes insulin or blood sugar levels. So, in most fasting regimens, anything with calories, protein, carbs, or fat can technically “break” a fast.

But there’s good news for coffee lovers: Black coffee has almost no calories and doesn’t contain macronutrients. So it’s generally considered fasting-friendly.

Does Black Coffee Break a Fast?

Nope—black coffee does not break a fast. In fact, it might even enhance some of fasting’s potential benefits.

Black coffee:

• Contains 0-5 calories per cup
  
• May boost metabolism and fat oxidation
  
• Can suppress appetite (making your fast easier)
  
• Offers antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits
  
• May even support autophagy (the cellular clean-up process fasting is known for)
  
  

So if you're going strong with a 16:8 or 18:6 fasting protocol and want a warm, bold companion? Black coffee is your best friend.

What About Add-ins Like Cream or Sugar?

Here's where things get tricky.

• Cream, milk, or half-and-half = adds calories and fat
  
• Sugar or flavored syrups = adds carbs and spikes insulin
  
• Bulletproof coffee (butter + MCT oil) = lots of fat and calories
  

So yes, even a splash of cream technically breaks a fast, depending on how strict you’re being. If you're fasting for blood sugar regulation, weight loss, or autophagy, keep it black.

But if you’re fasting for gut rest or simply skipping breakfast for time-restricted eating, a tiny dash of cream might not be a big deal.

Does CBD Coffee Break a Fast?

At Strava, we infuse our roasts with broad-spectrum hemp-derived CBD—and that raises a great question: does CBD break a fast?

Here's what we know:

• CBD contains trace calories (less than 5mg oil typically delivers ~1-2 calories)
  
• It doesn't spike insulin or blood sugar
  
• It may enhance fasting by supporting calm focus and reducing cortisol spikes
  
  

So as long as your CBD coffee is black (or at least unsweetened), it’s unlikely to interfere with your fast—and could actually help you stay centered and grounded during it.

Why Coffee Pairs So Well With Fasting

Coffee and fasting are like a well-tuned trail run and your favorite shoes. They just work together.

Here’s why:

• Both support mental clarity
  
• Both can elevate fat-burning
  
• Both encourage routine and discipline
  
• And together, they create a calm, alert energy that helps you feel present—not just peppy
  

For those practicing fasted workouts, black coffee (or black CBD coffee) can also provide a clean boost of energy without kicking you out of ketosis or raising your blood sugar.

When Coffee Might Interfere With Fasting

Just a few caveats:

• Too much caffeine can increase cortisol or cause jitters, especially on an empty stomach
  
• Some people experience acid reflux or upset stomach when drinking coffee while fasting
  
• Sweetened coffee drinks = fast-breakers every time
  
  

If any of that applies to you, consider switching to a low-acid roast, choosing cold brew, or drinking your coffee a little later in the morning.

Our Take: Coffee and Fasting Are a Natural Pair

So, does coffee break a fast? Not if it’s:

• Black
  
• Unsweetened
  
• Enjoyed mindfully
  

And if it’s infused with CBD, even better. At Strava, we believe wellness should feel natural, simple, and in rhythm with your body. That’s why we roast coffee to help you feel better, not just buzzed. Explore more about the Benefits of CBD Coffee in our next blog.