Coffee on an empty stomach: Health myth or morning boost?
The morning cup of coffee has been with us for centuries, yet it still stirs controversy. Nutritionist Ewa Trusewicz explains that the myth about drinking coffee on an empty stomach lacks scientific basis. In fact, a small black coffee can stimulate the colon, which may lead to a bathroom visit. But what's wrong with that? After all, coffee not only stimulates the mind to work but also the internal organs.
7:54 AM EST, December 4, 2024
Unfortunately, not everyone can enjoy this stimulating beverage first thing in the morning. Coffee doesn’t typically have negative effects if you’re in good health. However, people with a sensitive stomach, frequent reflux, or peptic ulcer disease should be cautious about drinking it on an empty stomach. If there are no pain issues, you can safely enjoy a small black coffee even before breakfast.
Does coffee irritate the stomach?
This issue should be approached with reason. Coffee stimulates the stomach and intestines to work, so many people need to go to the bathroom after a morning cup. For those who have trouble with morning bowel movements, the stimulating drink is even recommended—provided there are no issues with diarrhea or stomach pains.
A cup of coffee on an empty stomach is good for weight loss
Coffee speeds up metabolism, making it a good choice for those on a weight loss diet when consumed on an empty stomach. It provides energy, so if you drink a cup of black coffee before engaging in physical activity, you might have more strength for exercise.
Drinking coffee on an empty stomach also affects the body's fat-storing tissues. During the process of lipolysis, these reserves are gradually released. However, just consuming this drink won’t make you lose extra pounds. A comprehensive approach is essential, combining diet with physical activity, stress reduction, and regular sleep.
What coffee shouldn’t be drunk on an empty stomach?
If you don’t enjoy bitter black coffee, it's best to wait until after breakfast to drink it. Coffee with milk and sweet additives can cause an insulin spike, or a rapid increase in blood glucose levels. Frequent spikes can lead to several diseases—from diabetes and hypertension to stroke and kidney disease. If you consume coffee with additives after a meal, the increase in glucose won’t be as sudden and intense, allowing the body to manage sugar more effectively in smaller, gradual doses.
It’s true that coffee raises cortisol levels
Another consideration when drinking coffee on an empty stomach is the increase in cortisol levels in the blood. Although the expert acknowledges this effect, she notes:
"A significant flaw in the argument regarding cortisol is that a similar effect occurs with intense resistance exercises performed soon after waking up. Following this line of reasoning would mean avoiding morning exercise; however, this concept doesn’t make scientific or practical sense."
So if you’re in good health and don’t usually have stomach problems, go ahead and drink coffee on an empty stomach. To enhance the flavor, consider adding natural spices like ginger, cinnamon, or chili. A coffee with ginger can strengthen your antiviral defenses and help combat free radicals.
