Many of us start our day with a warm cup of coffee to kickstart our mornings. The aroma, the warmth, and the caffeine boost make it the perfect pick-me-up for a busy day ahead. However, have you ever stopped to think about the impact of drinking coffee on an empty stomach? While it may seem like a harmless habit, there are certain negative effects that you may experience if you regularly consume coffee on an empty stomach.
Know the side effects of drinking coffee on an empty stomach:
Increases Acid Production
When we drink coffee on an empty stomach, the caffeine triggers the release of a hormone called gastrin, which in turn stimulates the production of hydrochloric acid in our stomach. This acid is necessary for digesting food, but too much of it can be harmful. When there is no food in our stomach to absorb the acid, it can cause irritation and inflammation in our digestive tract, leading to symptoms like heartburn, bloating, and stomach pain.
Affects Nutrient Absorption
Our body requires certain nutrients to function properly, and breakfast is considered to be one of the most important meals of the day as it provides us with those essential nutrients. However, when we drink coffee on an empty stomach, it can interfere with our body's ability to absorb these nutrients from our breakfast.
Triggers Anxiety
Many people rely on coffee to feel more alert and focused in the morning. However, consuming coffee on an empty stomach can have the opposite effect and trigger anxiety and restlessness. This is because caffeine stimulates the release of stress hormones like cortisol and adrenaline, which can cause a spike in our blood sugar levels.
Can Lead to Acid Reflux
As mentioned earlier, drinking coffee on an empty stomach can cause an increase in hydrochloric acid production, which can irritate the lining of our stomach and oesophagus. This can lead to acid reflux or heartburn, which is a common symptom experienced by many individuals after consuming coffee.
Disrupts Gut Microbiome
Our gut is home to trillions of bacteria that play a crucial role in maintaining our overall health. These bacteria help with digestion, boost our immune system and even produce certain vitamins and neurotransmitters that regulate our mood and cognitive function. However, consuming coffee on an empty stomach can disrupt the balance of these bacteria and lead to an unhealthy gut microbiome.
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