If getting started with intermittent fasting has you a bit confused and has left you wondering, can you drink water while intermittent fasting? You’re not alone.
With so much conflicting information on the internet, it’s only normal to wonder what seems like the most basic questions and this post will answer them for you!
First, you should consult a licensed medical physician before jumping into intermittent fasting. IF isn’t for everyone, and therefore, it’s something to discuss with a licensed professional.
The purpose of this post is to share personal opinions from extensive reading on drinking water while intermittent fasting; it is not to provide any professional/medical advice.
Drinking Water During Your Fasting Window
You can, and should, drink water during your fasting window since water doesn’t affect blood sugar or insulin levels.
Water can also help you regulate body temperature, keep you hydrated, and can help curve hunger at times by filling your belly up.
Given that you’re not depriving your body of essential nutrition during your eating window, drinking water as you normally would during your fasting window is sufficient.
Most people also build their intermittent fasting schedule around their sleeping schedule, so keep in mind that excessive water before bed might lead you to get up a few times at night to use the bathroom.
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Intermittent Fasting for Women
If you want to dive deeper, I’ve created a book with everything you need to know about intermittent fasting & a 1-week meal plan so you know exactly what to eat during your eating windows. Check out my Intermittent Fasting Guide here.
Does Water Break Your Fast when Intermittent Fasting?
Water is a 0 calorie drink that will help you stay hydrated and is also essential for the human body and will not break your fast when intermittent fasting.
You can drink tap water, filtered mineral water, sparkling water, and unsweetened, zero-calorie drinks.
Coffee and tea are made with water and when served alone will not break your fast.
Related: How to Drink Coffee While Intermittent Fasting.
Does Lemon Water Break Your Fast When Intermittent Fasting
Lemon water consisting of a tall glass or bottle of water with a few lemon slices will not break your fast since the lemon slices are used to flavor the water.
Adding lemon juice, in excess of about 40 calories, to your water is almost like making lemonade, and therefore, it will break your fast. Read about more drinks you can enjoy when intermittent fasting, here.
How Much Water Should You Drink When Intermittent Fasting
How much water to drink always depends on one’s individual needs. That said, since a lot of our water intake comes from foods, it’s often recommended to add a glass or two of additional water to your daily intake.
For most people, carrying around a lidded or straw cup is a reminder enough to drink water more often and throughout the day during their fasting window.
Wondering about the eating window? I share about what to eat when Intermittent Fasting here.
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