The Fasting Drink List: Dr. Berg's Guide to What You Can Drink During Fasting

About this Video

• Video Title: The Fasting Drink List: Dr. Berg's Guide to What You Can Drink During Fasting
• Channel: Dr. Eric Berg DC
• Speakers: Dr. Eric Berg
• Duration: 00:13:27

Introduction

This video provides a guide on acceptable and unacceptable liquids to consume during intermittent fasting. Dr. Berg emphasizes the importance of avoiding mistakes that can hinder fasting results and shares his expertise based on personal and professional experience. The video focuses on which drinks may spike insulin, nullifying the benefits of fasting, and which drinks support the process.

Key Takeaways

• Water: The best choice; use filtered water to avoid chemicals and toxins. Spring water is ideal; consider carbonated water as an option.
• Apple Cider Vinegar: Helps blood sugar, digestion, and mineral absorption. A tablespoon in water a few times a day is recommended.
• Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice is beneficial for preventing kidney stones and supports liver and gallbladder health. Avoid lemon concentrates.
• Diet Sodas: Avoid those with artificial sweeteners like aspartame. Stevia, monk fruit, and erythritol are acceptable alternatives.
• Black Coffee: Acceptable in moderation; excessive caffeine can disrupt sleep and increase cortisol, hindering weight loss. Organic coffee is preferred.
• Bulletproof Coffee: Helpful at the beginning of a fasting program to improve cognitive function and extend fasting periods; however, it may hinder weight loss for some individuals.
• Half and Half vs. Cream: Whole cream is preferable to half-and-half due to lower carb content; however, the difference is minimal.
• Bone Broth: Not recommended due to its protein content.
• Non-Dairy Creamers: Avoid due to chemical content.
• Herbal Tea (e.g., Green Tea): Supports metabolism, has antioxidant properties, and offers other health benefits. Be mindful of caffeine content.
• Coconut Water: Avoid due to high sugar content.
• Coconut Milk (Silk brand): May be acceptable due to low carb content (1 gram).
• Pre-Workout Powders & BCAAs: Not recommended as they interfere with ketosis, fat burning, and autophagy. Plain electrolytes without added sugar are acceptable.
• Alcohol: Not recommended, even "keto-friendly" options, as it can negatively impact liver function and hinder fasting benefits.
• Milk: Not recommended due to high carb content.
• Electrolytes: Recommended if unsweetened and without maltodextrin or other synthetic sugars. Other nutrients like B vitamins, vitamin D, and omega-3s are also important.