Coffee on an empty stomach: Health boost or risk?
The morning cup of coffee has been a part of our routine for centuries, yet it still sparks controversy. Nutritionist Ewa Trusewicz explains that the myth about drinking coffee on an empty stomach lacks scientific support. Indeed, a small black coffee can stimulate the colon, which may lead to a trip to the bathroom. But what's wrong with that? After all, coffee stimulates the mind and the internal organs.
Unfortunately, not everyone can enjoy the taste of this stimulating drink first thing in the morning. Coffee doesn’t typically have negative effects if you're in good health. However, individuals with a sensitive stomach, frequent reflux, or peptic ulcer disease should be cautious about drinking it on an empty stomach. If you don't experience any pain, you can safely enjoy a small black coffee even before breakfast.
Does coffee irritate the stomach?
This issue should be addressed sensibly. Coffee stimulates the stomach and intestines, which is why many people need to visit the bathroom after a morning cup. For those who struggle with morning bowel movements, coffee is even recommended as long as there's no diarrhea or stomach pain.
A cup of coffee on an empty stomach is good for weight loss
Coffee speeds up metabolism, making it recommended for those on a weight loss diet when consumed on an empty stomach. It boosts energy, so drinking a cup of black coffee before physical activity may give you more strength for exercise.
Coffee consumed on an empty stomach also affects the body's fat-storing tissues. During lipolysis, these resources are gradually released. However, just drinking the stimulating drink won’t make you lose extra pounds; a comprehensive approach is required, combining diet with physical activity, stress reduction, and regular sleep.
What coffee shouldn’t be drunk on an empty stomach?
Those who don’t enjoy bitter black coffee should wait until breakfast to drink it. Coffee with milk and sweeteners causes what's known as an insulin spike, or a rapid increase in blood glucose levels. Frequent spikes can lead to various health issues, from diabetes and hypertension to stroke and kidney disease. If you consume coffee with additives after a meal, the rise in glucose won’t be as sudden and intense. The body can better manage sugar taken in gradually and in smaller amounts.
It’s true that coffee raises cortisol levels
Another reason to be cautious about drinking coffee on an empty stomach is the increase in cortisol levels in the blood. While the expert doesn’t dismiss this effect, she adds that:
"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 reasoning would mean avoiding morning exercise; however, this concept doesn’t make scientific or pragmatic sense."
So, if you’re healthy and don’t usually have stomach problems, feel free to drink coffee on an empty stomach. To enhance the flavour, add natural spices like ginger, cinnamon, or chili. A cup of coffee with ginger will strengthen your antiviral defences and help combat free radicals.
