Debunking coffee myths: Empty stomach brew boosts metabolism
The morning cup of coffee has been with us for centuries, yet it still sparks much controversy. Dietitian Ewa Trusewicz explains that the myth about drinking coffee on an empty stomach has no scientific basis. In fact, a small cup of black coffee stimulates the colon, which might result in the need to visit the toilet. But what's wrong with that? After all, coffee stimulates not only the mind but also the internal organs.
Unfortunately, not everyone can enjoy the taste of the stimulating beverage first thing in the morning. Coffee doesn't have a negative effect if you're in full health. However, those 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 painful symptoms, you can safely have a small cup of black coffee even before breakfast.
Does coffee irritate the stomach?
This matter needs to be approached wisely. Coffee stimulates the stomach and intestines, which is why many people feel the need to go to the toilet after a morning cup. For those who have trouble with morning bowel movements, the stimulating beverage is even advised – as long as there are no bouts of diarrhoea or stomach pains.
A cup of coffee on an empty stomach is good for weight loss
Coffee accelerates metabolism, so consuming it on an empty stomach is recommended for those on a weight-loss diet. It adds energy, so if you drink a cup of black coffee before physical activity, you might have more strength for exercising.
Drinking coffee on an empty stomach also affects fat-storing tissues in the body. These resources are gradually released in the process of lipolysis. However, simply consuming the stimulating beverage won't make you lose extra pounds. A systemic approach, combining diet with physical activity, stress reduction, and regular sleep, is necessary.
What kind of coffee should not be consumed on an empty stomach?
People who don't enjoy bitter black coffee should wait to have this drink until after breakfast. Coffee with milk and sweet additives causes a so-called insulin spike, which is a rapid increase in blood glucose levels. Frequent spikes can lead to many diseases, from diabetes and high blood pressure to stroke and kidney disease. If you have coffee with additives after a meal, the increase in glucose won't be as sudden and intense. The body can manage sugar when it's ingested gradually and in smaller amounts.
It's true that coffee raises cortisol levels
Another reason to avoid drinking coffee on an empty stomach is its impact on cortisol levels in the blood. While this effect does indeed occur, the expert explains:
"A significant flaw in the argument concerning cortisol is that a similar effect occurs with intense resistance exercises performed soon after waking. Following this line of reasoning would mean avoiding morning exercises; however, this concept lacks both scientific and practical sense."
If you are in good health and don't have any stomach issues, feel free to drink coffee on an empty stomach. To enrich its flavour, use natural spices such as ginger, cinnamon or chilli. A coffee with ginger will strengthen your antiviral barrier and help fight free radicals.
