Citrus fruits, black coffee, and spicy foods may negatively affect gut health.

 

Foods not to eat on an empty stomach 

                                            

Common foods that should not be eaten on an empty stomach

What you eat or drink first thing in the morning can affect how your digestive system reacts for the rest of the day. The stomach is usually more sensitive in the morning because its lining is fragile and its acids are functioning normally. Choosing the wrong foods upon waking can lead to heartburn, bloating, and even chronic digestive problems.

While some morning staples are nutritious, they may not be the best choice when your stomach is empty, according to the Times of India. Dr. Shubham Vatsia, Senior Consultant Gastroenterologist in India, highlights the three main foods that can negatively impact gut health when consumed on an empty stomach in the morning:

1- Citrus Fruits

Citrus fruits, black coffee, and spicy foods can negatively impact gut health.

Citrus fruits are rich in vitamin C, known for its numerous health benefits. Fruits such as oranges, grapefruit, and lemons are also rich in antioxidants. They boost immunity, fight free radicals, and maintain healthy skin. However, eating them on an empty stomach may do more harm than good.

The strong natural acidity of citrus fruits irritates the stomach lining, leading to heartburn and acid reflux, which directly affects the intestinal lining. This can cause severe pain in patients with acid sensitivity and gastritis. The second problem with citrus fruits is that they disrupt the natural balance of the gut, impeding digestion in the afternoon.

2- Black Coffee

Coffee is the most popular morning beverage in the world and an essential part of many people's lives. Almost everyone believes they can't live without their morning coffee. But when black coffee is consumed on an empty stomach, it triggers a series of events that impede digestion.

Coffee causes the release of hydrochloric acid in the stomach. When this acid is released without anything to digest, it irritates the stomach lining and causes a burning sensation. This, if sustained over a long period, can cause acid reflux and digestive distress. Coffee also has the effect of stimulating cortisol, the body's stress hormone. Consuming too much cortisol in the morning can lead to hormonal imbalance, afternoon drowsiness, and even increased anxiety. Black coffee also has a mild laxative effect, which can be uncomfortable if consumed on an empty stomach.

3- Spicy Foods

Spicy foods may seem energizing, but they're not a good idea on an empty stomach. Capsaicin, the chemical that gives chili peppers their heat, strongly stimulates the digestive system, which can lead to stomach cramps, indigestion, or diarrhea in some individuals. Eating spicy food first thing in the morning also increases the risk of acid reflux, especially in people who suffer from heartburn easily.

For sensitive stomachs or those with gastritis, spicy foods irritate the stomach lining and worsen symptoms. It's best to wait until later in the day to eat spicy foods, when the digestive system is at its most active and can process more stimuli. Experts recommend eating a balanced, alkaline diet for a healthy and happy gut throughout the day. Soaked almonds, bananas, and papaya can all naturally provide energy and support digestion. Experts recommend drinking a cup of lukewarm water, herbal tea, or oatmeal as a good digestive kick-start.