Why Can’t Mormons Drink Coffee? (And What They Drink Instead)

One time I invited some missionaries from the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints for a Bible study and innocently offered tea or coffee and found out (with respect) that they were not allowed to drink coffee (or tea).

You may be wondering the same thing: Why can’t Mormons drink coffee?

The simple answer is that Mormon leaders have said that coffee and tea are “hot drinks” and are therefore prohibited by the Word of Wisdom, a set of guidelines for living that Mormons believe were revealed by God to Joseph Smith, the founder of Mormonism.

Mormon leaders have interpreted the Word of Wisdom to mean that coffee and tea are not to be consumed because they contain harmful substances, including caffeine.

Mormons are also discouraged from consuming alcohol, tobacco, and illegal drugs.

The Word of Wisdom is not a commandment, but Mormons who choose to follow it do so because they believe it is a way to stay healthy and avoid addiction.

So, while there is no official rule that prohibits Mormons from drinking coffee or tea, many Mormons choose to abstain from these beverages as a way to show their commitment to following the Word of Wisdom.

What Can Mormons Drink Instead of Coffee?

Mormons can drink plenty of other beverages that do not contain caffeine, including water, milk, juice, and more.

There are also plenty of herbal teas that are caffeine-free and Mormon-friendly, such as chamomile tea, hibiscus tea, and mint tea.

Mormons can also make coffee substitutes using roasted grains or roasted chicory root.

These substitutes can provide the flavor and feel of coffee without the caffeine, making them a good option for Mormons who want to enjoy the taste of coffee without violating the Word of Wisdom.