Can Lds Drink Cold Coffee

If you’re a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, you might wonder about the rules around certain drinks. A common question that comes up is: can LDS drink cold coffee? The answer isn’t as simple as checking the temperature, as it involves understanding the Word of Wisdom, a key health code for members.

This guide will help you understand the official stance, the reasoning behind it, and where that leaves coffee lovers who are also committed to their faith. We’ll look at the specifics of the doctrine and talk about some popular alternatives that fit within church guidelines.

To answer the main question directly, no, members of the LDS Church are advised not to drink cold coffee. The Church’s teaching, known as the Word of Wisdom, identifies “hot drinks” as coffee and tea. This has been interpreted by church leadership to mean all forms of coffee, regardless of how it’s prepared or served.

So, iced coffee, coffee soda, nitro cold brew, and any other coffee-based beverage are included in this counsel. The principle focuses on the substance—coffee beans and tea leaves—not the temperature at which they are consumed.

Understanding the Word of Wisdom

The Word of Wisdom is found in Doctrine and Covenants section 89. It was given as a revelation to Joseph Smith in 1833 and is considered a commandment for the spiritual and physical health of members.

Key points include:

It advises against the use of wine, strong drinks (alcohol), and tobacco.
It specifically mentions “hot drinks are not for the body or belly.”
It encourages the use of wholesome herbs, fruits, grains, and meat to be used sparingly.

Early church leaders like Brigham Young and Hyrum Smith later clarified that “hot drinks” meant coffee and tea. This interpretation has been consistently upheld by every prophet since.

Why the Focus on Coffee and Tea?

The Word of Wisdom is considered a law of health and a spiritual principle. While the exact reasons for prohibiting coffee and tea aren’t detailed biochemically in the scripture, church leaders have emphasized obedience, self-control, and the spiritual benefits of following this counsel.

It’s seen as a way to separate from worldly habits and to maintain a clear mind and a body that’s a fit temple for the Spirit. The focus is on faith and obedience, with many members reporting personal spiritual blessings from adhering to it.

Common Coffee-Related Questions

Let’s clear up some areas where there’s frequent confusion. The rules can seem nuanced, so here’s a breakdown.

What About Decaf Coffee?

Decaffeinated coffee is still coffee. The process removes most of the caffeine, but it is made from coffee beans. Therefore, church counsel applies to decaf as well. The principle isn’t solely about caffeine content (as other caffeinated drinks like soda are not prohibited), but about the coffee bean itself.

Are Coffee Flavored Foods Allowed?

This is where it gets a bit more permissive. Foods that use coffee or coffee extract as a minor flavoring ingredient are generally left to personal discretion. For example:

Chocolate-covered coffee beans (eating the bean directly is usually avoided).
Tiramisu or coffee cake where the flavor is subtle.
Coffee ice cream (some members avoid, others partake cautiously).

Church leaders have typically not focused on these small uses. The emphasis is on the drink itself. When in doubt, it’s always best to seek personal guidance through prayer.

Is Iced Tea Also Prohibited?

Yes, absolutely. Just as with coffee, the prohibition on tea refers to the tea plant, Camellia sinensis. This means all true teas—black, green, white, oolong, and matcha—are included, whether served hot or cold. Herbal teas made from other plants (like peppermint or chamomile) are fine.

Great Alternatives to Coffee

If you love the ritual of a morning drink or the taste of something rich and robust, there are fantastic options. Many of these can be made hot or iced, giving you that “cold coffee” experience without the coffee.

Grain-Based “Coffee” Substitutes

These have been used for generations and offer a similar roasted, bitter note.

Postum: A classic brand made from wheat bran, wheat, and molasses.
Caffix or Pero: Popular brands made from barley, malted barley, chicory, and rye.
Chicory Root “Coffee”: Chicory root is roasted, ground, and brewed just like coffee. It has a deep flavor and is often blended with grains.

Delicious Herbal and Root Teas

The world of caffeine-free herbal infusions is huge. For a coffee-like experience, look for roasted herbs.

Roasted Dandelion Root Tea: Deep, earthy, and slightly bitter—it’s the closest many get to coffee’s taste.
Roasted Barley Tea (Mugicha): A nutty, toasted flavor popular in Asia, often drunk cold.
Rooibos (Red Bush) Tea: Naturally sweet and earthy, it’s great with a splash of milk.

Creating Your Own “Cold Brew” Experience

You can make a satisfying iced drink at home. Here’s a simple method:

Choose your base: roasted chicory root, dandelion root granules, or a grain-based blend.
Steep it extra strong in cold water overnight in the fridge (like cold brew coffee).
Strain it in the morning.
Pour over ice and add milk, creamer, or a sweetner if you like.

It gives you the same refreshing, cold, and bold drink you might be looking for.

Navigating Social Situations

It can feel awkward when everyone else is ordering coffee. Here’s how to handle it gracefully.

Be Prepared: Look at a menu ahead of time. Most cafes have herbal tea, hot chocolate, or lemonade.
Order Confidently: Simply say, “I’ll have a hot chocolate, please,” or “What herbal teas do you have?” No need to explain unless you want to.
Suggest Alternative Venues: If meeting friends, propose a smoothie shop, ice cream parlor, or a restaurant with a full drink menu.

Remember, your choice is personal and positive. Most people respect dietary choices based on religious conviction.

The Spiritual Perspective

For Latter-day Saints, the Word of Wisdom is more than a list of do’s and don’ts. It’s a principle of promise. Doctrine and Covenants 89:18-21 outlines blessings like health, wisdom, knowledge, and physical endurance.

Many members share that living this law brings a sense of spiritual clarity and alignment with God’s will. It’s a tangible way to show faith and commitment on a daily basis. The choice to avoid coffee, even when it’s served cold and tempting on a hot day, becomes a small but meaningful act of discipleship.

Final Thoughts

While the idea of a frosty iced coffee might seem appealing, church doctrine is clear that all coffee products are included in the Word of Wisdom’s guidance. The good news is that you don’t have to give up on flavor or ritual.

With a wide array of tasty alternatives and the spiritual benefits many members feel, it’s a manageable part of LDS life. The key is understanding the why behind the teaching, which makes the what much easier to follow.

FAQ

Can Mormons have iced coffee?
No, the prohibition against coffee in the Word of Wisdom applies to all forms, including iced, cold brewed, or frozen coffee drinks.

Is cold brew against the Word of Wisdom?
Yes, cold brew coffee is made from steeping coffee grounds in cold water. Since it is a coffee product, it is not used by observant LDS members.

What caffeinated drinks can LDS drink?
The Word of Wisdom does not prohibit caffeine itself. Many LDS members drink caffeinated sodas (like cola) or energy drinks. The specific counsel is against coffee and tea (from the tea plant).