Starting the day with a fragrant cup of coffee is a daily habit for millions of people around the world. However, if you drink coffee immediately after waking up while your stomach is still empty, you may be unknowingly causing serious harm to your body.

Nutritionist Nguyen Trung Hieu from Tam Anh General Hospital, Hanoi, has warned about the potential health risks of drinking coffee on an empty stomach even though coffee itself is rich in antioxidants and offers many health benefits.

Four Serious Health Risks of Drinking Coffee on an Empty Stomach

Gastritis, Stomach Ulcers, and Acid Reflux

Coffee has a pH level ranging from 4.85 to 5.10, placing it among highly acidic beverages. When consumed on an empty stomach, coffee stimulates the stomach to produce more hydrochloric acid (HCl) , a strong digestive acid.

With no food present to buffer this excess acid, it directly attacks the stomach lining, causing burning sensations, acid reflux, epigastric discomfort, and heartburn. Over time, this habit can lead to gastritis, peptic ulcers, and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).

For individuals with a history of stomach disorders, drinking coffee on an empty stomach can accelerate disease progression and make treatment more difficult.

Increased Anxiety and Stress

An average cup of coffee contains 80–100 mg of caffeine. When consumed on an empty stomach, caffeine is absorbed rapidly into the bloodstream, reaching peak levels much faster.

This sudden spike overstimulates the nervous system, leading to symptoms such as restlessness, unexplained anxiety, rapid heartbeat, trembling hands, and palpitations. Caffeine also triggers the release of adrenaline, creating a short-lived energy boost followed by a noticeable energy crash.

More importantly, caffeine significantly increases cortisol levels, which may contribute to chronic stress if coffee is consumed on an empty stomach regularly.

Abdominal Fat Accumulation and Hormonal Imbalance

Cortisol often referred to as the “stress hormone” plays a key role in metabolism regulation. Normally, cortisol levels rise naturally in the morning to help the body wake up and become alert.

However, drinking coffee on an empty stomach can push cortisol levels beyond healthy limits, leading to hormonal imbalances, especially in women. Chronically elevated cortisol is strongly linked to abdominal fat accumulation, insulin resistance, and metabolic syndrome.

Disrupted Blood Sugar Control

One concerning finding is that drinking coffee on an empty stomach may impair the body’s ability to regulate blood sugar. Caffeine can reduce insulin sensitivity, making it harder for the body to control glucose levels.

For people at risk of diabetes or with prediabetes, drinking coffee before eating may cause mild but abnormal blood sugar fluctuations. Feelings of fatigue, shakiness, or palpitations after drinking coffee on an empty stomach are often signs of this metabolic disturbance.

How to Drink Coffee Safely and Correctly

Coffee is not harmful when consumed properly. According to nutrition experts, here are some key guidelines:

Timing

Never drink coffee within the first 30–60 minutes after waking up. The ideal time is around 9–10 a.m., after your body’s natural cortisol levels have stabilized and most importantly, after breakfast.

Breakfast First

Always eat at least a light breakfast before drinking coffee. Suitable options include whole-grain bread, bananas, yogurt, boiled eggs, or oatmeal. These foods help neutralize stomach acid and provide steady energy.

Moderation

Limit coffee intake to 1–2 cups per day. When consumed correctly, coffee can improve focus, reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease, enhance metabolism, and lower the risk of type 2 diabetes.

Goce Coffee: Supporting a Healthy Coffee Habit

To fully enjoy the benefits of coffee without adverse effects, choosing high-quality, pure coffee is essential. Goce Coffee is made from premium Robusta beans sourced from Vietnam’s Central Highlands.

Goce’s modern roasting process preserves natural antioxidants while delivering a bold, balanced flavor. With Goce Coffee, you can confidently enjoy a delicious cup of coffee after breakfast, without concerns about quality or food safety.

Order now: Goce Black Coffee for free consultation and exclusive offers today.

Remember: Coffee can be a great friend to your health but only if you treat it the right way. Quit the habit of drinking coffee on an empty stomach and switch to enjoying it after meals. Your body will thank you.

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