Is it dangerous to drink coffee on an empty stomach?

Morning coffee on an empty stomach: why this popular habit can harm your health

A fragrant cup of coffee on an empty stomach has become an integral part of the morning ritual for millions of people. However, medical specialists are raising the alarm: this common habit may harbor serious health risks, especially with systematic consumption of coffee without eating beforehand.

First, coffee stimulates the production of gastric juice. When there is no food in the stomach, increased acidity begins to irritate the mucous membrane, which can lead to gastritis, heartburn, or even ulcers. This is especially relevant for people with existing digestive problems.

Second, morning coffee on an empty stomach can trigger a sharp spike in the stress hormone - cortisol. This affects overall well-being, increases anxiety, and can disrupt the endocrine system when repeated constantly.

Some also complain of nausea, stomach discomfort, and decreased appetite after drinking coffee without food. Additionally, some people may experience blood sugar fluctuations - especially when adding sugar or cream to the drink.

To minimize risks, doctors recommend drinking coffee after meals or at least accompanying it with a light snack. This will reduce the aggressive impact of the drink on the stomach and decrease hormonal fluctuations.

If completely giving up coffee on an empty stomach is not possible, it's better to choose less strong options and not overindulge in quantity. People with increased acidity, gastritis, or peptic ulcer disease should be especially careful.

Proper morning nutrition and moderate caffeine consumption will help maintain health and energy without harming the body.