While the goal of fasting is to avoid calories, sometimes hunger hits and you may want something small to help you continue your fast without derailing your progress. Below are options that have minimal impact on your fast and are commonly used to take the edge off while still staying close to fasting benefits:
Low-calorie vegetables 🥒
A few bites of cucumber, celery, or lettuce can help calm hunger. These foods are mostly water and contain only a few calories.A small amount of bone broth 🍲
Bone broth contains minimal calories and can provide warmth and comfort. It’s often used in more flexible fasting styles, especially when someone feels lightheaded or weak.A small piece of fruit 🍏
If you need a gentle break, choose low-calorie fruits like berries or a small apple slice. This technically breaks a strict fast but still keeps your intake very light.Pickles or a sip of pickle juice 🥒
Low in calories and high in electrolytes, pickles can help with salty cravings and provide a quick sense of fullness.A spoonful of chia seeds in water 🌱
Chia absorbs liquid and expands, helping you feel fuller with very few calories. This is great for people who struggle with appetite during longer fasting windows.Clear vegetable broth 🥕
Similar to bone broth, but plant-based. Low in calories and easy on the stomach, making it a gentle option if you feel you need something warm.A few nuts (flexible fasting only) 🌰
Not suitable for strict fasting, but acceptable in looser fasting approaches. Just a couple of nuts can ease strong hunger without leading to overeating.
Keep in mind that any food will technically break a pure fast, but these options can help you stay close to your fasting routine when you need a little support. If you find yourself feeling overly hungry often, you may benefit from adjusting your fasting schedule or eating more balanced meals during your eating window.