Survey: Majority of Young People Find Fasting Meaningful - Younger Germans Lead a Surge in Lenten Fasting for Health and Tradition
Lent remains a significant tradition in Germany, with many people considering a break from daily indulgences. Support for fasting has risen sharply among younger adults, while older generations show more caution. New figures reveal changing attitudes towards giving up alcohol, sweets, and meat during the 46-day period before Easter.
In 2026, Lent will start on February 18, marking the beginning of a six-week period of reflection. Half of Germans have tried fasting at least once, with 15% having done so once and 35% multiple times. The practice is particularly popular among younger people, as 85% of those under 30 now see fasting as meaningful—up from 76% in 2024.
Alcohol and sweets top the list of things people would give up, with 75% willing to cut out drinks and 71% ready to skip desserts. Meat follows closely, with 52% considering a vegetarian Lent. Smoking is also on the list, with 48% open to quitting for the period.
Younger Germans are more likely to embrace dietary changes. Around 66% of under-30s could imagine avoiding meat, compared to just 48% of those over 60. Overall, 62% of older adults say they could participate in fasting, showing a generational divide in attitudes.
Health remains a key motivator, as 70% of all Germans believe fasting has positive effects. However, no public data exists on how many actually follow through with abstaining from alcohol, sweets, or meat each year.
The trend suggests fasting is becoming more popular, especially among younger generations. With Lent 2026 approaching, many Germans are likely to reconsider their habits—whether for health, tradition, or personal challenge. The shift in attitudes reflects broader changes in how people view self-discipline and well-being.
