When I first started intermittent fasting, I thought all I needed was willpower. I figured, “How hard could it be to skip breakfast?” Well, let me tell you—it’s not just about skipping meals. Staying hydrated, managing hunger, and keeping energy levels up are all part of the process. The right tools can make all the difference between feeling great and feeling like you’re barely hanging on.
If you’re new to fasting or just looking to make the experience smoother, you’re in the right place. Let’s talk about some must-have products that can help you stay on track and make fasting feel like a breeze.
1. A Trusty Water Bottle
Hydration is key when you’re fasting. Without food, you’re not getting water from meals, so drinking plenty of it becomes even more important. Having a water bottle you love can make it easier to keep sipping throughout the day.
I’ve got one of those insulated bottles that keeps my water cold all day long. It’s my constant companion during fasting hours. You can also spice things up by adding a slice of lemon or cucumber to your water for a little flavor boost.
2. Electrolyte Supplements
Sometimes plain water isn’t enough. When you’re fasting, your body loses electrolytes like sodium, potassium, and magnesium. Without them, you might feel sluggish or dizzy. Electrolyte supplements can help you stay balanced and energized.
I learned this lesson the hard way during my first 24-hour fast. By the afternoon, I was exhausted. A friend recommended an electrolyte powder, and it was a game-changer. Just make sure it doesn’t have added sugars or calories, so it doesn’t break your fast.
3. Fasting Apps
Tracking your fasting hours can make the whole process so much easier. Fasting apps like Zero, FastHabit, or LIFE Fasting Tracker can help you keep track of your start and stop times, as well as give you helpful tips and reminders.
I love using an app because it keeps me accountable. Seeing how many hours I’ve fasted motivates me to keep going, especially when I’m close to my goal. Some apps even let you log how you’re feeling, so you can notice patterns and adjust your routine.
4. A Reliable Timer or Watch
If you’re not into apps, a good old-fashioned timer or watch can do the trick. Whether you’re doing 16:8, 18:6, or another fasting schedule, having a way to track time is essential.
I use a simple kitchen timer when I’m working from home. It sits on my desk and reminds me when it’s time to break my fast. It’s low-tech but super effective.
5. Herbal Teas
Hunger pangs can hit hard, especially in the beginning. Sipping on herbal teas is a great way to keep your mind off food while staying hydrated. Plus, some teas like peppermint or ginger can help with digestion or curb cravings.
I have a whole cabinet of herbal teas now. Peppermint is my go-to during fasting hours, and I save chamomile for the evenings to help me wind down. Just be sure to stick to unsweetened teas so you don’t accidentally break your fast.
6. Black Coffee or Green Tea
If you’re a caffeine fan, black coffee and green tea are your best friends during fasting. They can boost energy, improve focus, and even help curb hunger.
I used to struggle with mid-morning cravings until I started drinking black coffee. It keeps me sharp and focused during the fasting window. Just skip the cream and sugar, as they’ll break your fast.
7. Meal Prep Containers
Breaking your fast with a nutritious meal is so important. Having prepped meals ready to go can save you from reaching for unhealthy options when you’re super hungry.
I like to prep my meals on Sundays and store them in portioned containers. When it’s time to eat, I just grab one and enjoy. It keeps me from overloading my plate, and it makes life so much easier during busy weekdays.
8. A Digital Food Scale
If you’re trying to balance your macros or watch your calorie intake, a food scale is a great tool. It can help you portion your meals and avoid overeating during your eating window.
I started using a food scale when I realized I was guessing on portion sizes and often eating more than I thought. It’s a small investment that makes a big difference, especially if you’re working toward weight loss or fitness goals.
9. Collagen Powder
Collagen powder is a fasting-friendly way to support your skin, hair, and joints. It’s tasteless, mixes easily with coffee or water, and doesn’t break your fast.
I started adding collagen to my morning coffee, and it’s been amazing. My nails are stronger, and my skin feels more hydrated. It’s such a simple addition to my routine that brings big benefits.
10. A Journal or Notebook
Fasting isn’t just a physical journey—it’s a mental one too. Keeping a journal can help you track how you’re feeling, note what’s working, and stay motivated.
I like to jot down my thoughts during fasting hours, especially when I’m feeling tempted to give up. Writing about my progress helps me stay focused on why I’m fasting in the first place.
Making Fasting Easier
Intermittent fasting doesn’t have to be a struggle. With the right tools and products, you can stay on track and even enjoy the process. From staying hydrated with a water bottle to curbing hunger with herbal teas, these small additions can make a big difference.
When I started using these products, fasting became so much easier. I felt more energized, less stressed, and better equipped to handle the challenges. Give some of these a try and see what works best for you.