Despite the health benefits of coffee, it has 4 serious effects when consumed on an empty stomach.

A cup of coffee

4 serious effects of drinking coffee on an empty stomach... Learn about them

Coffee is one of the most consumed beverages worldwide, and its consumption is associated with mental alertness, improved physical performance, and enhanced brain function.

However, drinking coffee on an empty stomach may not be a suitable option for everyone, as recent medical reports indicate that this habit may lead to a range of unpleasant, and sometimes even serious, symptoms in some individuals.According to a report published by the health website Verywell Health, drinking coffee without eating can affect the digestive system, hormones, and anxiety levels in some people.

Among the most prominent risks highlighted in the report are:

                                                       Increased stomach acidity

Coffee is naturally an acidic beverage, and when consumed on an empty stomach, it may stimulate the stomach to secrete larger amounts of acid. This can lead to irritation of the stomach lining and cause heartburn or acid reflux, especially in people who already suffer from gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) or irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Caffeine also relaxes the lower esophageal sphincter, making it easier for stomach acid to rise into the esophagus.

Experts recommend eating a light snack or even a small piece of food before drinking coffee to minimize these symptoms. They also note that dark roast coffee may be less likely to cause heartburn than light roast coffee.

Faster Caffeine Absorption

When coffee is consumed on an empty stomach, the body absorbs caffeine more quickly, which can lead to feelings of nervousness, jitteriness, and a rapid heartbeat. Studies indicate that excessive caffeine intake can cause headaches and high blood pressure, and may be linked to increased anxiety symptoms, especially in those who consume large amounts of coffee daily. Doctors recommend limiting caffeine intake to 400 mg per day, equivalent to four to five cups of coffee, and avoiding drinking it on an empty stomach in the morning or close to bedtime.

Digestive Issues

Some people experience digestive symptoms after drinking coffee on an empty stomach, such as bloating, cramps, nausea, or diarrhea. Coffee also stimulates bowel movements, which can cause a sudden urge to defecate, especially in those with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

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Hormonal Effects

Caffeine also stimulates the release of cortisol, the stress hormone. Elevated cortisol levels can be linked to anxiety, sleep disturbances, and mood swings. While the increase in stress caused by coffee consumption is usually temporary and not dangerous, drinking it daily on an empty stomach can worsen symptoms for some people.

In conclusion, despite the well-known benefits of coffee, drinking it on an empty stomach is not suitable for everyone. It is advisable to listen to your body's signals and adjust the timing or method of coffee consumption if you experience any unpleasant symptoms.