I’ve seen conflicting things on this, but I’m wondering if things like black coffee, herbal tea, and zero calorie water sweeteners can negate the effects of fasting?
Black coffee and herbal teas don’t negate the positive benefits of fasting, however, there is a lot of evidence to show that sweeteners can ruin a fast. There are also people who provide evidence that says it doesn’t. If you’re fasting for weight loss only, then some sweeteners may not be a huge deal (although I’ve seen people say that it does slow their weight loss). If you’re fasting for autophagy and other health related reasons, then I would avoid them completely. I’m not expert, though.
I drink coffee and energy drinks with added artificial sweeteners. I’m still productive and I still burn calories for just staying alive. I think the weightloss from fasting is more important to me than other benefits that MAY be canceled out..