Does Pre-Workout Break a Fast?

 I wanted to share a bit of an opinion-based post here as I have continuously heard some buzz around this topic lately. For those of you who participate in intermittent fasting, you will understand that some individuals can be very adamant about creating what they believe to be 'the' set of rules... I find this quite annoying. I feel a lot of individuals forget that we are all doing these practices for the good of ourselves, not to fit in with some agenda. 

In my opinion, I do not believe that consuming pre-workout is grounds to claim someone is breaking their fast. However, I am someone who does my own kind of fasting. (I continue to drink water no matter what). After some trial and error, I found that not taking water during intermittent fasting leaves me with a terrible headache, and rather than suffer through that pain, I choose to take the path that is best suited for me. 

I would like to note, however, that I only use powder pre-workout and mix it into water. So, in my mind, I am not even actually consuming food. 

If someone is to eat a pre-workout protein bar that's a different story but it is most commonly used in powder or supplement form which I don't believe to be real food. I mean, if it was then edible food would probably be a lot more relevant. 

I digress... I do understand others educating on the do's and don't's of intermittent fasting. There are a lot of layers to the practice as a whole. But, I will never understand why people become aggressive in believing their way is the only right way and I continuously see this within the health community. I feel it instills fear in those who may just be beginners and can't fully commit to not eating or drinking for 8 hours at a time. 

All in all, do not let those around you bully you into believing your way is wrong. Yes, stay within the general guidelines but do what is best for you and what will work for your body.