Survey: Majority of Young People Find Fasting Meaningful - Lent 2026 sees Germans embracing fasting as a health and cultural trend

Lent in 2026 begins on February 18, and many Germans are preparing to give up certain habits. A growing number see fasting as a meaningful practice, especially among us younger people. Alcohol, sweets, and meat remain the most common items people plan to avoid during the 40-day period.

Fasting has long been a tradition in Germany, with half of the population having tried it at least once. Around 15% have fasted once, while 35% have done so multiple times. Support for the practice has risen sharply among younger adults—85% of those under 30 now view it as meaningful, up from 84% in 2025 and 76% in 2024.

Health benefits are a key motivator, as 70% of all Germans believe fasting improves wellbeing. When it comes to specific sacrifices, 75% would give up alcohol, and 71% would cut out sweets. Meat is another common target, with 52% willing to stop eating it, while 48% would consider quitting smoking.

Age plays a role in attitudes toward fasting. Among under-30s, 66% could imagine going without meat, compared to just 48% of those over 60. Overall, 62% of older Germans would still consider participating in some form of fasting.

No official statistics track how many people in Germany have actually abstained from alcohol, sweets, or meat during Lent over the past five years. Such detailed data remains unavailable.

The trend suggests fasting will remain popular in 2026, particularly among younger generations. With alcohol, sweets, and meat topping the list of items to avoid, many see the practice as both a personal challenge and a health boost. The tradition continues to evolve as more people embrace its perceived benefits.