Maybe a stupid question but my partner an I both fast, but enjoy a coffee in the morning. He has a double espresso while I have an oat cappuccino and 1 equal (stevia).
Well it’s not true fasting, but I had coffee every single day with Splenda and heavy whipping cream or half and half before my eating started at 12PM and still lost 30 pounds. They say if your main motivation is weight loss, it’s fine, but does add overall to your calorie count of course. I say keep the coffee, and just be mindful of the food you eat afterwards. Having coffee helps me not feel starving to death all morning, and giving up something you enjoy is not fun at all.
I think others answered your question. I had a serious coffee NEED before really committing to IF. Once I got used to putting off the first cup until I was ready to break my fast (10-10:30 for me) it really became more of a “drink for pleasure” rather than “MOMMY NEEDS HER COFFEE!!!” I also absolutely can drink without those chemical-laden, super sweet, delicious creamers. It was indeed breaking my fast, as is the oat capp for you.
Turns out some people have an insulin response to anything flavored, sweet or salty. Oat milk for sure breaks a fast, but i’d lose the stevia too. I honestly think this was my problem last time I tried to lose weight. You will get used to black coffee! Try an americano! Edited to add you could have your preferred coffee in your eating window- I’ve done that many days and it really feels like a treat now!