Austria embraces intermittent fasting as top wellness trend for 2026

Fasting habits in Austria have shifted significantly over the past five years. A 2025 Eurobarometer report shows that intermittent fasting (IF) has grown more popular there than in most EU countries. Meanwhile, traditional methods like healing fasting have held steady, even as trends differ across Europe.

Looking ahead to 2026, nearly half of Austrians plan to fast, with many aiming to improve sleep, exercise, and mindful eating alongside their fasting routines.

Between 2021 and 2026, Austria saw a sharp rise in intermittent fasting, climbing from 28% to 42% of adults. This increase outpaced the EU average, where methods like 16:8 fasting dominate in Germany (45%) and 5:2 fasting leads in Britain (35%). Traditional fasting, such as healing fasting, remained stable in Austria at 12%, while countries like Italy saw a 5% decline.

In 2025, 32.6% of Austrians fasted at least occasionally, with multi-day programs typically lasting around seven days. The top reasons for fasting included detoxification (39.3%), weight loss (37.9%), and better overall well-being (34.5%). Intermittent fasting was the most recognised method, with 62.2% awareness, and over a third of those familiar with fasting had tried it.

Despite this, 67% of Austrians did not fast in 2025, citing lack of interest (38%), doubts about benefits (24.1%), or low motivation (18.4%). Yet, 90% of those who did fast plan to repeat it in 2026, while 25% of non-fasters intend to try it for the first time. Overall, 46.5% of Austrians say they will fast next year, often pairing it with goals like better sleep, more exercise, and mindful eating.

The data highlights Austria's growing interest in intermittent fasting, now the country's most popular approach. With nearly half the population planning to fast in 2026, the trend shows no signs of slowing. Many will combine fasting with broader health goals, reflecting a wider shift toward mindful lifestyle changes.