Skip these morning missteps: Foods to avoid on an empty stomach
Some products and beverages are not suitable for consumption on an empty stomach. The more sensitive the stomach, the more noticeable the effects can be. Knowing what not to consume on an empty stomach is important to avoid digestive problems, energy drops, or headaches.
5:48 PM EST, November 23, 2024
This can happen to anyone, especially during this time of year when it's particularly easy to oversleep. Sometimes, due to various reasons, we have very little time in the morning. At these times, when we're inclined to grab breakfast "on the go," it's easy to make a mistake. Consuming certain products on an empty stomach can lead to unpleasant symptoms.
The most important breakfast
Nutritionists agree that breakfast is the most important meal of the day. It determines whether we start the day with good energy. Experts also emphasize that the morning meal is crucial for our hormonal balance and metabolism. What we eat at the beginning of the day affects our feelings of fullness. A nutritious breakfast in the morning helps regulate hunger hormones, keeping us fuller and more satisfied for longer. Unfortunately, when we eat in a hurry, we might choose products that cause stomach pain and digestive issues. This won't set a positive tone for the day.
Do not eat these on an empty stomach
- Coffee is always better paired with a meal. Consumed on its own on an empty stomach, coffee can irritate the digestive system and increase its acidity, leading to reflux, bloating, and nausea.
- Spicy dishes. Hot spices can lead to gastrointestinal disorders, irritating the stomach lining and causing pain.
- Sweet pastries or cakes. These can cause a rapid increase in blood sugar, followed by a significant energy crash. If you must indulge, eating them after a breakfast rich in fiber is better, which helps slow sugar absorption.
- Black tea. Like coffee, it's caffeine-rich and increases stomach acid production, potentially leading to reflux and nausea. Furthermore, tea contains theine that can cause nervousness, dizziness, and heart palpitations on an empty stomach.
- Carbonated drinks. These can guarantee bloating. If high in sugar, they might also cause a sudden drop in energy.
- Fried foods. They are difficult to digest and can cause gastrointestinal discomfort when eaten on an empty stomach.
- Citrus fruits and juices. These can irritate the stomach, causing pain and a burning sensation. This can lead to the development of ulcers.