Survey: Majority of Young People Find Fasting Meaningful - Germans ditch alcohol and sweets as Lent fasting gains momentum in 2026

Fasting during Lent remains a popular practice in Germany, with many people willing to give up common indulgences. A new survey shows that alcohol, sweets, and meat top the list of items Germans plan to avoid in 2026. Support for fasting has also risen, particularly among younger adults.

Lent in 2026 will start on February 18, and many Germans are already considering what to give up. According to the latest figures, 75% would most easily forgo alcohol, while 71% would cut out sweets. Meat and smoking follow closely, with 52% willing to stop eating meat and 48% ready to quit smoking.

Half of those surveyed have fasted before—15% once and 35% multiple times. Younger people show the strongest interest, with 66% of under-30s open to giving up meat during Lent. Among this age group, 85% see fasting as meaningful, up from 84% approval in 2025 compared to 76% in 2024.

Older Germans are also participating, with 62% of those over 60 considering fasting. Overall, 70% of all Germans believe fasting benefits their health.

The trend suggests fasting will remain widespread in 2026, with alcohol, sweets, and meat as the most common sacrifices. Younger generations continue to drive growing support, while older adults also show steady interest. The practice is widely viewed as a positive habit for well-being.