Does Chamomile Tea Break a Fast? No

Reviewed by the FastTrack team · Updated June 2026
Short answer: No

Chamomile tea does not break a fast. A cup brewed with water has about 2 calories and no caffeine, far too little to affect insulin, ketosis or weight loss. Honey, sugar or milk are what turn it into food.

Calories~2 kcal per cup
Breaks a weight-loss fast?No
Breaks ketosis?No
Breaks autophagy?Unlikely
Insulin impactNegligible

Why chamomile tea keeps you fasted

Dried chamomile flowers release flavor and plant compounds into hot water, while the plant matter stays in the bag. USDA data put brewed chamomile at about 1 calorie per 100 ml, roughly 2 per cup. That cannot raise insulin or end the fasted state, so it fits any fasting goal, including a strict fast with only water and tea.

Sleep, allergies and add-ins

Chamomile is a popular evening drink, which suits fasting windows that start after dinner. Evidence that it improves sleep is thin, though a warm, caffeine-free cup can be a calming routine. People allergic to ragweed, daisies or marigolds are more likely to react to chamomile, and it may interact with the blood thinner warfarin. Bedtime blends built on chamomile are usually fine; check the label for added sugar or honey granules.

How much is safe

Drink as many cups as you like during the fast. If you sip it at night, have the last cup an hour or so before bed so you are not up to use the bathroom.

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Frequently asked questions

Does chamomile tea with honey break a fast?
Yes. A teaspoon of honey adds about 21 calories of sugar, enough to raise insulin and end a strict fast.
Can chamomile tea help with hunger at night?
A warm drink helps some people get through the evening without snacking, though the effect is modest and varies.
Does chamomile tea break autophagy?
Unlikely. With about 2 calories and no sugar or protein, there is no reason to expect a meaningful effect, though no study has tested it directly.
Is chamomile tea safe every day?
For most people, yes. People with ragweed allergies, those taking warfarin and anyone pregnant should check with a doctor first.

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