Welcome to the fabulous world of teas, my fellow tea lovers! Today, we're diving into the best teas to accompany your fasting journey. Whether you're a seasoned faster or just starting out, these teas are sure to enhance your fasting experience and boost your overall health. From herbal teas to the classic black tea, we’ve got a delightful lineup ready to be sipped!
If you want to get some for yourself, we have a collection of the best teas for fasting right here in tea bags, loose leaf, or iced tea pouches.
What is the Best Tea for Fasting?
1. Yaupon Tea
Yaupon is the only naturally caffeinated plant native to North America. It contains theobromine, which you may know better in association with chocolate. It’s the compound that makes you feel better when you eat it, elevating your mood and boosting your focus and attention. Not only does it contain a moderate amount of caffeine, but it also provides a smooth energy boost without the jitters. Yaupon tea is an excellent choice for those looking to maintain steady energy levels during their fasting hours. There is a synergistic effect on the benefits of the two compounds, reducing those hangry feelings that come with fasting.
Benefits:
- Theobromine acts as a muscle relaxer to calm those sounds of hunger.
- Benefits for your immune system from the antioxidants that remove free radicals in your body.
- Gives the gentle boost of energy from caffeine tempered by an interaction with polyphenols that can reduce the negative effects on mood.
Side Effects:
- May cause sleeplessness due to caffeine if large amounts of yaupon are consumed all at once.
Try our CatSpring Yaupon tea to make fasting more enjoyable. It’s organic, non-gmo, kosher, sustainably grown, and naturally caffeinated.
2. Ginger Tea
Ginger tea is a great companion for your fasting period. Whether helping stave off hunger, soothe an upset stomach, or aiding the body in breaking down food, you can never go wrong with adding ginger to your tea routine. Ginger tea is perfect for sipping on an empty stomach, as it helps reduce nausea and supports a healthy immune system. As a rule of thumb, one cup of ginger tea contains about 250 milligrams of ginger so aim to drink two to four cups of this tea to alleviate feelings of nausea. It's a great way to stay hydrated and healthy during your fast.
Benefits:
- Makes you feel fuller longer by curbing your appetite.
- Made using fresh ginger root which packs a punch when it comes to providing flavor to an often flavorless fast.
- Support a healthy immune system with the powerful antioxidants to protect you while you fast.
Side Effects:
- Makes heartburn worse because it relaxes the muscle that prevents stomach bile from entering the esophagus.
3. Green Tea
Green tea is a beloved favorite among fasters, and for good reason. Packed with antioxidants and amino acids, green tea can boost metabolism and enhance fat burning, making it ideal for weight loss journeys. Green tea has not undergone the oxidation process that creates black tea and oolong teas which tends to give it a lighter flavor profile and appearance. Additionally, green tea steeps in hot water for a shorter period of time than black teas as steeping too long draws out tannins that can make the brew bitter. Plus, the moderate mg of caffeine in green tea provides a gentle energy lift without overstimulation. It's a staple in any intermittent fasting plan!
Benefits:
- Protect your cells with the polyphenols and catechins from green tea that reduce free radicals that damage your cells.
- Boost your energy levels while fasting with a little caffeine.
- With a variety of flavors green tea can help you spice up your fasting.
Side Effects:
- Possible sleeplessness if you consume too much caffeine later in the day.
4. Black Tea
When it comes to regular teas, black tea stands out as a timeless classic. With its robust flavor and higher caffeine content, black tea can be a great substitute for your morning cup of coffee. It’s perfect for those who need a stronger kickstart during their fasting state. Black tea also has an amino acid that slows the release of caffeine helping you feel full of energy longer. Just make sure to enjoy it as an unsweetened tea to reap the best results for your fasting goals.
Benefits:
- Full of flavor providing you with tastes of deliciousness all while still consuming no calories
- Get longer lasting energy thanks to L-theanine which is known to slow the release of caffeine and provide energy longer.
- Antioxidants help remove free radicals keeping you and your cells healthy and happy.
Side Effects:
- Possible sleeplessness if you consume too much caffeine later in the day.
5. Rooibos Tea
Rooibos tea is a delightful, caffeine-free option for your fasting window. It has an earthy flavor that can be similar to yerba mate. Your brew is less likely to be bitter too because rooibos has less tannins than other teas. Rich in antioxidants and free from caffeine, it’s perfect for sipping throughout the day without disrupting your sleep. Rooibos tea supports heart health and can be enjoyed hot or cold, making it a versatile addition to your fasting routine. It’s a great choice for those sensitive to caffeine or looking for a cozy evening drink.
Benefits:
- Aides in metabolizing fat faster helping those dessert pounds stay away.
- Caffeine free for relaxing evenings to unwind.
- Support heart health as some studies show that rooibos may inhibit an enzyme that increases blood pressure.
Side Effects:
- Possible liver damage if you consuming too much rooibos.
6. Peppermint Tea
Peppermint tea is a refreshing herbal tea that's perfect for keeping you cool and collected during your fasting hours. Known for its digestive benefits, peppermint tea can help alleviate stomach discomfort and reduce hunger pangs. It’s a plain herbal tea with a great taste, making it a fantastic addition to any fasting regimen. Enjoy it hot or cold – the choice is yours! Pro tip: you can also add peppermint oil to other beverages*
Benefits:
- A natural muscle relaxant to soothe nerves and relieve potential headaches.
- Caffeine free and coming in oil or bag form, peppermint is a versatile option for however you'd like to enjoy it.
- Freshens breath to help you feel satiated.
Side Effects:
- Can worsen acid reflux by relaxing the muscles around the stomach sphincter.
7. Hibiscus Tea
Last but not least, hibiscus tea is a vibrant, tangy brew that’s brimming with health benefits. This herbal tea is great for lowering blood pressure and improving heart health, making it an excellent choice for those with cardiovascular disease. Hibiscus tea is also packed with antioxidants that help reduce oxidative stress. Oftentimes the brew has a taste profile similar to cranberries, with a slight sweetness and a bit of bitterness, and can be enjoyed hot or cold. Enjoy this beautiful red tea during your fasting period for a refreshing and health-boosting experience.
Benefits:
- Fights free radicals helping promote general well being
- Boost your immune system and remove toxins with the powerful antioxidants including vitamin C and beta-carotene.
- Brew with ease and complement its sweet undertones with a favorite sweetener such as honey.
Side Effects:
- May interact with medicines like acetaminophen if consumed in very large quantities.
The Bottom Line
Fasting, when done correctly, can offer numerous positive health benefits, from weight loss to improved insulin sensitivity. These teas are not only delicious but also provide various health benefits to support your fasting journey. Remember, it's always a good idea to consult with your healthcare provider before starting any new fasting regimen, especially if you have existing medical conditions.
If you want to get our best tasting tea for fasting, check out our organic, naturally caffeinated CatSpring Yaupon tea here. Looking for teas to boost your energy during your fast? Check out our blog on the best teas for energy.
Medical Disclaimer: This article is for informative purposes only and shouldn’t be taken as medical advice. If you have serious health-related issues you should reach out to a medical professional. While we have studied the scientific research available, this is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
