For members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (LDS), or Mormons, drinking coffee and tea aren’t part of their dietary code. As a result of their religious beliefs, these substances are considered off limits for members to consume. In this article, we’ll explore why can’t Mormons drink coffee and what the possible consequences may be if they do. Whether you’re an active member or just curious about Mormon culture, read on to learn more about Mormons and why they don’t drink coffee.
Contents
- 1 What Does Being A Mormon Mean?
- 2 The History Behind The Mormon Church’s Stance On Coffee
- 3 Can Mormons Have Coffee?
- 4 Why Can’t Mormons Drink Coffee?
- 5 What Are The Possible Consequences Of Drinking Coffee As A Mormon?
- 6 Health Considerations Related To Mormon’s Abstaining From Caffeine
- 7 Do All Mormons Avoid Coffee?
- 8 What Do Mormons Drink Instead?
- 9 Conclusion: Why Can’t Mormons Drink Coffee?
- 10 FAQ: Drinks For Mormons
- 10.1 What happens if Mormons drink coffee?
- 10.2 Why do Mormons not like coffee?
- 10.3 Why don t Mormons drink hot caffeine?
- 10.4 Is it against Mormon religion to drink coffee?
- 10.5 What percentage of Mormons drink coffee?
- 10.6 Can Mormons drink decaf coffee?
- 10.7 Can Mormons drink Coke?
- 10.8 Can Mormons drink green tea?
- 10.9 Can Mormons have Thai tea?
- 10.10 Can Mormons have iced coffee?
- 10.11 Can Mormons drink hot chocolate?
- 10.12 Can Mormons eat coffee flavored things?
- 10.13 Can Mormons drink energy drinks?
- 10.14 Can Mormons drink espresso?
What Does Being A Mormon Mean?
Mormons are people who practice the religion of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (LDS). They believe in a God that is Heaven Father, and his son Jesus Christ. As part of their faith, they adhere to certain dietary guidelines known as the “Word of Wisdom,” which includes abstaining from coffee, tea, alcohol, and tobacco. Additionally, they are encouraged to maintain good health by eating wholesome foods in moderation.

The History Behind The Mormon Church’s Stance On Coffee
The Mormon Church has had a long history of prohibiting its members from drinking coffee. This stance dates back to 1833, when Joseph Smith Jr., the founder of the Church, received what he called “a revelation from God” that said: “hot drinks are not for the body or belly.” This was later interpreted as a ban on coffee, tea, and other beverages that contain caffeine.
Today, the Church still holds to this teaching and members must refrain from drinking coffee as a sign of their commitment to God and good health. The consequence for not following the ban can range from being asked to leave the Church or losing one’s membership in it.
Can Mormons Have Coffee?
Mormons are discouraged from drinking coffee, but they may have it in moderate amounts. However, this decision is left up to the individual and their conscience. Some Mormons choose not to drink coffee at all while others allow themselves a cup occasionally. It’s important to note that the Church does not consider having a cup of coffee as a major sin; however, it is seen as a violation of the Word of Wisdom.
Why Can’t Mormons Drink Coffee?
Mormons abstain from drinking coffee due to the Word of Wisdom outlined in the Doctrine and Covenants section 89 of their religion. This dietary code states that LDS members should avoid consuming substances that can be harmful to their bodies such as coffee and tea. As a result, Mormons are discouraged from drinking beverages that contain caffeine or other potentially addictive substances.
The reasons for this are twofold: first, the Word of Wisdom outlines that drinking these substances is contrary to the religion’s teachings about health and moderation; second, consuming coffee and tea can lead to addiction. According to the Doctrine and Covenants, those who are addicted to substances such as caffeine cannot partake in certain religious activities like participation in the temple which is an important part of Mormon faith.
This video explains why can’t Mormons drink coffee.
What Are The Possible Consequences Of Drinking Coffee As A Mormon?
It’s important for Mormons to remember that drinking coffee can have serious consequences for them. For example, it may lead to addiction and disrupt their spiritual journey. Additionally, the caffeine in coffee can interfere with sleep and cause anxiety or depression if consumed in large quantities. Finally, some studies suggest that drinking too much coffee can increase the risk of certain health problems like heart disease and stroke.
As you can see, there are many good reasons why Mormons abstain from drinking coffee. Although they may not be able to enjoy the taste of a cup of joe, believers in this faith understand that health and spiritual well-being should always come first. However, if you do choose to indulge in some caffeinated drinks occasionally, make sure you’re aware of the possible consequences. With knowledge and moderation, you can still enjoy an occasional cup of coffee even if it isn’t a part of your religion.
Health Considerations Related To Mormon’s Abstaining From Caffeine
As mentioned, the Mormon Church’s stance on coffee is primarily centered around health and wellness. Caffeine has been linked to a variety of adverse health effects such as insomnia, anxiety, irritability and restlessness. Additionally, long-term consumption of caffeine can lead to increased tolerance levels, resulting in larger doses being required for desired effects. Furthermore, caffeine has been linked to increases in blood pressure and the risk of and heart attack.
For those members of the Mormon Church choose to consume caffeine, it is to remember that moderation is key Caffeine should be consumed in small amounts only and not as a regular part of one’s diet. By making conscious decisions about how much caffeine one consumes, the risk of adverse health effects can be minimized.

Do All Mormons Avoid Coffee?
No, not all Mormons avoid coffee. It is up to each individual to decide whether or not they want to consume caffeine-containing beverages like coffee and tea. Some Mormons choose not to drink coffee while others allow themselves one cup occasionally. While it is understood that consuming these drinks goes against the Word of Wisdom, individuals should be aware of the possible health risks and make informed decisions about how much caffeine they consume.
Overall, abstinence from coffee is a matter of personal preference for Mormons and the decision to drink or abstain should not be judged by others. As long as individuals are aware of the possible consequences and practice moderation, then it is acceptable for them to enjoy a cup of coffee if they so choose.
What Do Mormons Drink Instead?
Mormons typically refrain from drinking coffee and tea, but there are a variety of other beverages that they enjoy. Some popular non-caffeinated drinks include herbal teas, sparkling water, homemade fruit drinks and smoothies, as well as specialty coffees made with decaffeinated beans. In addition to these options, many Mormons also make their own mocktails with fruit juices and other ingredients, allowing them to indulge in a tasty beverage without the caffeine.

Conclusion: Why Can’t Mormons Drink Coffee?
This article answered you why can’t Mormons drink coffee. In conclusion, Mormons are prohibited from drinking coffee due to their religious beliefs and teachings found in The Church’s Word of Wisdom. Although they may choose to drink it in moderation, most Mormons avoid coffee altogether so that they can remain true to their faith. Whether you’re a Mormon or just curious about their beliefs, understanding why Mormons can’t drink coffee can help you gain insight into this major faith and its teachings. Thanks for reading at mollysmtview!
FAQ: Drinks For Mormons
What happens if Mormons drink coffee?
Latter-day Saints have the freedom of choice when it comes to following God’s commandments. The Church has recently updated that drinks such as mocha, latte, espresso and all beverages ending in -ccino are considered coffee despite their names and should be avoided according to the Word of Wisdom.
Why do Mormons not like coffee?
Members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints are committed to living a life guided by their faith and by divine counsel. As part of this commitment, they follow an inspired health code which includes abstaining from the consumption coffee – all in pursuit healthier, happier lives.
Why don t Mormons drink hot caffeine?
Joseph Smith, the Mormon Prophet, was said to have received a divine revelation from God which led Mormons to abstain from hot beverages like coffee and tea in addition to alcohol, tobacco and an excessive intake of meat. Since then this sacred command has been maintained within their culture for centuries.
Is it against Mormon religion to drink coffee?
Church members adhere to the principles of a special theological revelation dating back to 1833, which forbid consumption of alcohol, tobacco, illegal drugs and coffee/tea.
What percentage of Mormons drink coffee?
Church congregants have different preferences when it comes to their favorite beverage – 35% reach for coffee, 25% prefer tea while an equal proportion opts for a tipple of alcohol.
Can Mormons drink decaf coffee?
In the 70s, an encounter with a Presiding Bishop from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints stirred up some controversy when it was revealed that there is no religious prohibition against drinking decaffeinated coffee. This moment brought new information that caused dissent among local bishops and marked a change for members in quorums everywhere.
Can Mormons drink Coke?
Mormons were historically discouraged from consuming caffeinated beverages, however in 2012 the church released an official statement allowing them. Despite this ruling, many continue to abide by their previous beliefs and abstain from such drinks.
Can Mormons drink green tea?
The Church recently deliberated on its stance regarding tea, clarifying that Green Tea, Black Tea and Iced Tea are to be avoided in accordance with their Word of Wisdom. Additionally, any products containing tea are also prohibited from use by the congregation.
Can Mormons have Thai tea?
Mormons are guided by their sacred texts, including The Doctrine and Covenants (D&C), to lead a healthy lifestyle. This guidance includes avoiding alcoholic beverages as well as “hot drinks” such as coffee or tea with the exception of herbal teas. Additionally, they abstain from using tobacco in any form.
Can Mormons have iced coffee?
Members of The Church of Jesus Christ Saints consider themselves to be privileged recipients of God’s wisdom, which suggests that abstaining from coffee is an important part of living according to their faith. This guidance has been documented in the Word Of Wisdom, a text said to have revealed divine laws and commandments given by God himself.
Can Mormons drink hot chocolate?
Mormons can enjoy hot chocolate as part of a wholesome diet, and the Church encourages informed decisions about its consumption. While there is no particular restriction on imbibing it, LDS leaders recommend limiting caffeine intake to promote healthy habits.
Can Mormons eat coffee flavored things?
Following the Word of Wisdom, using vaping or e-cigarettes, green tea and coffee derivatives are restricted.
Can Mormons drink energy drinks?
Despite common misconception, the Word of Wisdom does not bar its followers from enjoying caffeine – although it’s important to be mindful and ensure consumption is done in moderation.
Can Mormons drink espresso?
In 1833, the Church’s Founder Joseph Smith received a divine revelation from God: alcohol, tobacco, illegal drugs and coffee/tea are to be avoided by members as part of their spiritual discipline. To this day these prohibitions remain an integral foundational element in faith practice for believers.

Bobby Kelly is a bartender at Molly Magees, an Irish pub in Mountain View. He’s been working there for two years and has developed a following among the regulars. Bobby is known for his friendly demeanor and great drink specials. He loves interacting with customers and making them feel welcome. When he’s not at work, Bobby enjoys spending time with his friends and family.