When practicing intermittent fasting, it is important to avoid drinks that contain calories, but it is essential to stay hydrated. Here are some beverages that you can drink during intermittent fasting:
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Water: Water is the best drink that you can take during intermittent fasting to keep you hydrated. It is completely calorie-free, so it will not break your fast. Some signs that you are not getting enough water during your intermittent fast include headaches, muscle cramps, dizziness, and fatigue.
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Tea: Tea is a natural, calorie-free drink that contains less caffeine than coffee, which is why you may want to replace your caffeinated beverages with it. Make sure to drink plain tea brewed with tea bags, leaves, or tea flakes.
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Coffee: You can drink moderate amounts of black coffee during fasting periods, as it contains very few calories and is unlikely to break your fast. However, it is important to keep it black, without any added ingredients.
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Apple cider vinegar: Apple cider vinegar is a low-calorie drink that can help control blood sugar levels and improve digestion. You can dilute it with water and drink it during your fasting period.
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Mineral water and seltzer: These are other zero-calorie beverages that are suitable for your fasting window.
Here are some drinks that you should avoid while fasting:
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Alcohol: Alcohol should not be consumed during fasting periods, as it can intensify its effects when consumed on an empty stomach. Alcohol is also a source of calories, so its consumption can break the fast and stimulate appetite and cravings.
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Soft drinks: Soft drinks like soda or squash contain calories and sugar, so they should be avoided during fasting periods.
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Fruit juice: Fruit juice is high in sugar and calories, so it should be avoided during fasting periods.
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Coconut water: Coconut water contains carbohydrates, so it can break the fast and should be saved for the eating window.
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Milk: Milk contains calories, so it should be avoided during fasting periods. However, it is an issue of quantity, so small amounts of milk in coffee or tea may be acceptable.
In summary, the best drinks to consume during intermittent fasting are calorie-free beverages such as water, tea, coffee, apple cider vinegar, mineral water, and seltzer. It is important to avoid drinks that contain calories, sugar, or alcohol during fasting periods.