Caffeine is a popular stimulant found in coffee, tea, soda, and energy drinks. However, when it comes to religious beliefs, there’s often curiosity about whether members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, commonly known as Mormons, can consume caffeine. To answer this question, we’ll dive into the teachings of the Church, explore their stance on caffeine, and clarify common misconceptions. This article provides an in-depth look at the topic while remaining simple and easy to understand.
What Does the Church Teach About Caffeine?
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is known for its unique health code called the Word of Wisdom, which was revealed in 1833 by Joseph Smith, the founder of the Church. The Word of Wisdom provides guidance on what members should and shouldn’t consume to maintain physical and spiritual health.
The Word of Wisdom specifically advises against the consumption of alcohol, tobacco, and “hot drinks.” Over time, Church leaders clarified that “hot drinks” referred to coffee and tea, but no explicit mention was made of caffeine itself. This leaves room for interpretation, leading to some variation in personal practices among members.
While the Church does not officially prohibit caffeine, individual choices about its consumption often stem from personal beliefs and lifestyle preferences shaped by the broader teachings of the Church.
Can Mormons Drink Soda with Caffeine?
One of the most common misconceptions is that Mormons are not allowed to drink caffeinated soda. This belief likely stems from the confusion around the Word of Wisdom. However, Church leaders have stated that caffeinated sodas like Coca-Cola, Pepsi, or Mountain Dew are not explicitly banned.
In fact, in 2012, the Church publicly clarified its position by stating:
“The Church does not prohibit the use of caffeine. The restriction in the Word of Wisdom, as interpreted by Church leaders, does not go beyond tea and coffee.”
As a result, many Mormons enjoy caffeinated sodas without feeling that they are breaking any rules. However, some still choose to avoid these drinks as a matter of personal preference, health reasons, or to avoid any possible dependency on caffeine.
Why Do Some Mormons Avoid Caffeine?
Even though caffeine is not forbidden, some Mormons avoid it entirely. There are a few reasons why this might be the case:

- Health Concerns:
- Caffeine, as a stimulant, can have adverse effects on the body, such as causing sleep disturbances, anxiety, or addiction. Some Mormons choose to avoid caffeine to maintain their health and well-being in accordance with the spirit of the Word of Wisdom.
- Cultural Influence:
- In some Mormon communities, it is common for members to abstain from caffeine simply because it aligns with a conservative lifestyle. This cultural practice can lead to the assumption that caffeine is against Church teachings, even though it is not explicitly banned.
- Avoiding Addiction:
- The Word of Wisdom emphasizes avoiding substances that can lead to addiction. While caffeine is not on the prohibited list, some members choose to steer clear of it to avoid dependency.
Is Coffee Different from Soda?
Yes, coffee is treated differently from soda within the Church. The Word of Wisdom explicitly prohibits coffee, categorizing it as a “hot drink.” This prohibition applies regardless of whether the coffee is caffeinated or decaffeinated. Coffee is seen as a direct violation of Church teachings, while soda is not.
What About Energy Drinks?
Energy drinks are another gray area for Mormons. While they are not officially banned, some members avoid them due to their high caffeine content and the inclusion of other stimulants. Many Mormons see energy drinks as unhealthy and potentially addictive, which makes them inconsistent with the principles of the Word of Wisdom.
Do Young Mormons Drink Caffeine?
Younger Mormons are often less strict about avoiding caffeine compared to older generations. Many drink caffeinated sodas or occasionally enjoy other caffeinated beverages. However, they still adhere to the prohibition of coffee and tea. As times change and the Church clarifies its stance on caffeine, younger members tend to adopt a more relaxed approach.
Do Modern Mormons Drink Caffeine?
The modern Mormon community reflects a mix of perspectives on caffeine consumption. Many members drink caffeinated sodas, while others choose to avoid them. For the most part, the choice to consume caffeine is left up to individual discretion.
It is important to remember that being a faithful member of the Church does not hinge on whether one drinks caffeine or not. Modern Mormons interpret the Word of Wisdom in ways that fit their personal beliefs and lifestyle, as long as they follow the fundamental prohibitions.
What Are the Health Reasons Behind This Belief?
The Word of Wisdom encourages a healthy lifestyle by advising members to avoid harmful substances. This emphasis on health is one reason why Mormons have historically been cautious about caffeine consumption. Caffeine, while not inherently bad, can cause:
- Sleep disturbances, particularly if consumed late in the day.
- Increased anxiety or nervousness, especially in large quantities.
- Potential for addiction, which the Church discourages in all forms.
By prioritizing moderation and avoiding potentially addictive substances, Mormons align their daily habits with their faith’s teachings.
Can Visitors to Utah Enjoy Caffeinated Drinks?
Utah is home to a large Mormon population, and visitors to the state often wonder whether caffeinated drinks are readily available. The answer is a resounding yes! Caffeinated drinks are widely available throughout Utah in grocery stores, restaurants, and vending machines.

What About Local Restaurants?
Local restaurants in Utah cater to a wide variety of preferences, including caffeinated beverages. Major chains like Starbucks, Dunkin’, and soda shops such as Swig and Sodalicious are popular among residents, including many Mormons. These establishments offer an assortment of caffeinated and non-caffeinated options for everyone.
Are There Mormon-Owned Cafes?
Interestingly, there are Mormon-owned cafes and businesses that serve coffee, tea, and caffeinated beverages. These businesses cater to the broader community rather than exclusively to members of the Church. Their existence highlights the distinction between personal beliefs and business practices.
What You Need to Remember
The availability of caffeinated drinks in Utah underscores the fact that caffeine consumption is not a religious taboo for Mormons. Visitors and locals alike can enjoy their favorite caffeinated beverages without concern.
The Bottom Line
So, can Mormons have caffeine? The short answer is yes. While the Church advises against coffee and tea due to the Word of Wisdom, it does not prohibit caffeine itself. Whether a Mormon chooses to drink soda, energy drinks, or other caffeinated beverages is a personal decision. Factors like health concerns, cultural traditions, and individual interpretation of the Word of Wisdom all play a role in shaping these choices.
Ultimately, the teachings of the Church emphasize moderation, healthy living, and spiritual well-being. By understanding these principles, we can appreciate the diversity of practices within the Mormon community and respect their choices. For visitors to Utah or those simply curious, there’s no need to worry—caffeine is not off-limits, and there are plenty of options to enjoy.