Should you drink coffee on an empty stomach?

Is it OK to Drink Coffee on an Empty Stomach? Here's What to Know!

We've all been there: you roll out of bed a little bit late, and promptly wolf down a cup of coffee as you sprint out the door on your way to work. Sometimes, there just aren't enough hours in the day to have breakfast before coffee! 

While drinking coffee on an empty stomach is generally considered safe, making it a habit could cause issues for certain individuals. This is especially true for those with pre-existing health problems, particularly people who are struggling with issues like weight loss, anxiety, PCOS, stress, or high cortisol levels. 

Have you been wondering whether it is okay to drink coffee on an empty stomach? That is what we are here to find out! 

Is it okay to drink coffee on an empty stomach?

It's usually fine to drink coffee on an empty stomach; however, for those who struggle with heartburn, high cortisol levels, a sensitive stomach, or other health conditions, it may cause problems if it becomes a regular habit over time.

Luckily, there are many ways to help avoid these issues. If you're worried that drinking coffee before having anything to eat is causing your problems, you can try: 

• Mixing soluble fiber with your coffee
• Adding a scoop of protein powder to coffee 
• Switching to a low-acidity coffee blend
• Opting for decaf 
• Drinking cold brew
• Skipping the cream in your coffee
• Adding a tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil to your coffee

We also recommend checking out a small-batch roaster like OneGreatCoffee.com for various top-rated low-acid coffee beans! You can also read this blog about coffee, cortisol, and blood sugar. 

What to Know About Drinking Coffee Before You Eat

A cup of coffee is the first thing that many people reach for when they open their eyes in the morning. In fact, 9 out of 10 people who consume coffee regularly report having it before taking a single bite of any breakfast food. 

The good news is that your digestive system is both complex and efficient. For most people, drinking coffee on an empty stomach doesn't present any issues at all. So, while you may have heard that drinking coffee on an empty stomach can cause health problems, most doctors will readily debunk these myths, and you can rest assured, it's fine to have a cup of Joe if you haven't eaten yet today. 

Will coffee on an empty stomach give you heartburn?

Not usually. Gastroesophageal reflux disease, also called GERD, occurs because the valve between your stomach and esophagus isn't closing properly. This can make the contents in your stomach, whether food, a beverage, or coffee, flow back up into your esophagus, which then causes an uncomfortable sensation in your chest, known as heartburn. 

No definitive research exists on whether coffee actually causes acid reflux or worsens heartburn symptoms. Some studies suggest that coffee doesn’t seem to be the culprit for these ailments at all, but instead, other health factors are to blame. Other studies suggest that coffee may even help with chronic health conditions like obesity. Another new study suggests that coffee may even help with gut health. 

With all of that being said, if drinking coffee first thing in the morning gives you heartburn, it may be the type of coffee you are drinking. Caffeine, for example, can increase stomach acid production. 

Moreover, since coffee may relax certain valves in your digestive system, excess acid could enter your esophagus. Dairy products may also be at the root of the issue. You could try switching to decaf, skipping the cream in your coffee, trying a low-acidity brew, or even checking out cold brew to see if that makes a difference.

Drinking Coffee Before Eating: The Takeaway

All in all, for healthy adults, drinking coffee on an empty stomach is no big deal. So, don't stress yourself out! Although prevalent social media platforms like Facebook and TikTok have been pumping out coffee myths like this recently, no definitive research exists suggesting that drinking coffee on an empty stomach is an actual issue. 

Still, if you are concerned about drinking coffee on an empty stomach, there are many easy solutions available. For one thing, you can eat something! Or, consider adding a tablespoon of olive oil to your coffee, mixing it with some soluble fiber, switching to low-acidity beans, or sampling a tasty decaf blend. 

Disclaimer: This article offers general information and discussions about health-related subjects. The information and other content provided in this article, blog, website, or in any linked materials are not intended and should not be regarded or used as a replacement for medical advice or treatment. This blog does not constitute healthcare advice. If you or any other person has a medical concern, you should consult with your healthcare provider.