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Coffee is for many people an inseparable part of the morning routine. It helps wake the mind, improves concentration and provides energy. But did you know that drinking coffee on an empty stomach can do more harm than good to your body? Doctors and nutrition specialists warn that this habit can negatively affect digestion, hormones and even the body’s stress levels.
If you are in the habit of drinking your first cup before breakfast, read what happens in the body and how to adjust this morning routine so that it benefits you.
Coffee on an empty stomach increases acidity in the stomach
When you drink coffee immediately after waking, without food, the production of hydrochloric acid in the stomach increases. This acid is necessary for digestion, but in excessive amounts it can damage the stomach lining and cause irritation.
In people suffering from gastritis or reflux, symptoms such as heartburn, abdominal pain or nausea may occur. Even healthy individuals may experience uncomfortable bloating, a feeling of fullness or pressure in the stomach from drinking coffee on an empty stomach.
Problem with protein digestion
If a heavy breakfast follows coffee on an empty stomach – for example eggs, cured meats or cheeses – the increased acidity can cause impaired protein digestion. These then do not break down properly in the digestive tract, which leads to flatulence, intestinal inflammation and, in the long term, irritation of the colon.
Some studies even warn that long-term irritation of the digestive tract may increase the risk of developing more serious diseases.
Increased stress hormone cortisol
Morning coffee also affects the body’s hormonal balance. After waking, the level of the hormone cortisol naturally rises – it helps us wake up and activate the metabolism. But if we have coffee before breakfast, cortisol is released in larger amounts than the body needs.
Result?
- The body goes into stress mode.
- Heart rate and breathing speed up.
- After the effect wears off, fatigue and irritability follow.
This cycle can repeat every day, leading to long-term exhaustion and weakened immunity.
Acid, bloating and irritation
Coffee is acidic by itself and promotes the production of stomach juices. If there is no food in the stomach to neutralize the acid, the mucous membrane becomes irritated, which can lead to bloating, nausea or even vomiting.
Especially people with sensitive digestion or stomach problems should avoid morning coffee on an empty stomach.
How to enjoy coffee more healthily
You don’t have to give up your favorite drink – just follow a few simple rules:
- Don’t drink coffee on a completely empty stomach. Have a light breakfast first – for example a banana, yogurt or oatmeal.
- Add a little milk or butter to your coffee. This will reduce the acidity and ease the effects on the stomach walls.
- Try a glass of water first. Before coffee, drink lukewarm water with lemon, which will kick-start digestion and hydrate the body.
- Wait at least 30 minutes after waking. The body has time to activate naturally and coffee will have a better effect.
Summary
Coffee can be a great helper, but only when drunk correctly. Morning coffee on an empty stomach may be tempting in its simplicity, but it can do more harm than good – from stomach problems to hormonal imbalance.
If you can’t imagine a day without coffee in the morning, learn to drink it smart: with a little milk, after a light breakfast and with respect for what your body really needs. A small bad habit can thus become a healthy ritual that gives you energy without unnecessary consequences.
