Does A Protein Shake Break a Fast? [Intermittent Fasting FAQ]
Does a protein shake break a fast? Can you drink a protein shake while fasting? Get your answers here!

Will a protein shake break a fast? If a wave of hunger hits you while fasting, you may wonder if a sip of a protein shake will help. But will it break your fast? Keep reading to get all of your answers here.
Does A Protein Shake Break A Fast?
Yes, protein shakes will break a fast. A protein shake will spike your insulin levels and remove you from a fasted state.
Does A Protein Shake Break A Fast – Further Details
Drinking a protein shake will break your fast. Protein shakes will spike your insulin, start your digestive processes, and therefore break your fast.
One of the main objectives while fasting is to not spike insulin. By keeping insulin levels low, our body can naturally burn fat. Because of this, we want to do everything possible to avoid spiking our insulin levels.
However, protein shakes are a great choice to consume during your eating window. Protein powder can help you achieve your daily protein goals.
Does Protein Powder Break A Fast?
Yes, protein powder will break a fast. If you want to drink protein powder, consume it during your eating window.
If you want to explore protein powder options, check out our guide to the best clean protein powder options.
This article is all about protein shake while fasting and does protein shake break fast.
What Can I Consume While Fasting?
If you are following a clean fast, you can consume the following items when fasting:
- Water (unflavored, no added fruit)
- Black coffee
- Plain green tea or black tea
- Mineral water, unflavored sparkling water, seltzer water (with no added ingredients)
- Salt, electrolytes, or minerals (unflavored, no additives)
- Medications as prescribed by your doctor

When To Have Protein Shakes During Your Eating Window
Protein is a key nutrient to consume during your eating window. When should you drink protein shakes during your eating window? Here are a few suggestions:
- To break your fast and open your eating window
- After a workout
- As protein-packed snack option
Additional Fasting Resources
Here are some other frequently asked fasting questions that may help you out!
- Does Honey Break A Fast?
- Can You Chew Gum While Fasting?
- What Are The Best Electrolytes For Fasting?
- Why Am I Not Losing Weight On OMAD?
- Does Lemon Water Break A Fast?
- Does Diet Soda Break A Fast?
- Does Cinnamon Break A Fast?
- Does Coffee Creamer Break A Fast?
- Does Kombucha Break A Fast?
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, drinking a protein shake will break your fast. A protein shake will spike your insulin levels and stimulate a digestive response, therefore breaking your fast.
Consuming a protein shake after your fast is a great choice.
No, you should avoid drinking a protein shake during intermittent fasting. Drinking a protein shake while fasting will break your fast.
Yes, drinking a protein shake breaks a fast. It is best to drink protein shakes during your eating window.