Disclaimer: The Military Diet is a short-term, very low-calorie diet that has not been formally studied for effectiveness or safety by the medical community [1]. This diet is considered a fad diet and is not recommended by most healthcare professionals due to its restrictive nature and lack of scientific evidence. It is important to note that severely restricting calories can be harmful and may lead to nutritional deficiencies, fatigue, and other health problems. Consulting with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian is highly recommended before starting any restrictive diet. It is crucial to ensure your diet is nutritionally complete and safe for your individual health needs. The Military Diet: Everything You Should Know - WebMD
Coffee on the Military Diet: The Strict Rules
Following the military diet requires strict adherence to a specific 3-day meal plan, and this rule extends to beverages. While plain water is encouraged, coffee and tea are also permitted, but only in their black form [3]. The primary goal of this low-calorie regimen is to create a significant calorie deficit over three consecutive days. Therefore, any caloric additions like sugar, cream, milk, or other sweeteners are strictly forbidden, as they would undermine this deficit [2]. For those who prefer a sweetened drink, some interpretations of the diet permit the use of Stevia as a zero-calorie alternative [2].
The caffeine in black coffee can act as a mild appetite suppressant and may give a temporary metabolism boost, which is why it's included in the plan [1]. The diet's official meal plans include coffee at specified times, typically with breakfast and lunch [3]. It is important not to over-consume coffee, and to listen to your body, as excessive caffeine can cause side effects like restlessness, headaches, or an upset stomach [1].
How Coffee Fits into the 3-Day Plan
The military diet outlines precise meals for each of the three days. The plan frequently features black coffee or tea as part of the breakfast and lunch menus. Following this structure is crucial for those who are aiming to adhere to the diet as prescribed [3]. The routine helps establish a calorie-controlled framework, where coffee serves a specific, non-caloric purpose. The consistency of incorporating coffee into the schedule on each of the three restrictive days helps maintain the diet's structure.
Alternatives and Adjustments
For those who do not tolerate caffeine or simply dislike coffee, the diet provides approved alternatives. Herbal tea or green tea are suitable substitutes, provided they also remain unsweetened [3]. The principle remains the same: the beverage should be calorie-free to support the diet's strict energy intake. It is important to note that while substitutions for food items are also allowed, they must be calorically equivalent to maintain the low-calorie goal [2].
Coffee Consumption: 3-Day vs. 4-Day Phases
The military diet is structured as a 3-day low-calorie phase followed by 4 days of less restrictive eating [2]. The rigid black coffee rule primarily applies to the 3-day phase. During the subsequent four days, calorie intake is increased, and the rules are relaxed, though a calorie-controlled approach (around 1,500 calories) is still encouraged [2]. This means you may reintroduce a modest amount of milk or sugar during this less restrictive period, but it is wise to maintain low-calorie practices to sustain progress. Ultimately, the success of any diet comes down to overall calorie intake and sustainability.
Potential Downsides of High Caffeine During Low-Calorie Periods
While a bit of black coffee can be a welcome part of a restrictive diet, relying too heavily on caffeine can have drawbacks. High caffeine intake on top of low-calorie consumption can lead to dehydration, increased anxiety, and sleep disruption [1]. These side effects can make following the diet more challenging. Furthermore, caffeine is not a substitute for proper sleep or balanced nutrition, which are both crucial for long-term health and weight management [1].
| Feature | Military Diet Coffee Rules | Regular Coffee Habits |
|---|---|---|
| Preparation | Strictly black coffee only [3]. | Typically includes creamers, sugars, and syrups. |
| Additives | Zero-calorie sweeteners like Stevia may be acceptable [2]. | High-calorie additions are common. |
| Purpose | To boost metabolism and suppress appetite with no extra calories [1]. | Often for enjoyment or social ritual. |
| Consumption Schedule | Included within the strict 3-day meal plan [3]. | Varies widely based on personal routine. |
Conclusion
To answer the question, can you drink coffee every day on the military diet, the answer for the core 3-day phase is yes, but only as black coffee. Calorie-laden additives are forbidden to maintain the strict low-calorie deficit. For the four less restrictive days, you have more flexibility, but a cautious, low-calorie approach is recommended for best results. Always remember to prioritize your overall health and hydration while following this or any other strict diet plan.
