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Surprising effects of consuming coffee on an empty stomach, revealed by specialists.
According to the latest National Coffee Data Trends (NCDT) report from the National Coffee Association (NCA), a significant 66% of American adults indulge in coffee every day. For a large portion of these individuals, their morning routine begins with a cup of coffee even before they have breakfast. But is this habit beneficial? “Coffee is more than just caffeine; it’s a complex mix of various chemicals, and its health impacts vary,” explains Dr. Brunilda Nazario, Chief Physician Editor at WebMD, in a conversation with Eat This, Not That! Let’s delve into the lesser-known effects of sipping coffee without food.
The composition of your coffee is influenced by the origin of the beans and the brewing method. “Yet, caffeine is the primary active component that delivers that essential morning jolt,” Dr. Nazario notes. “It stimulates the brain, making it an ideal pick-me-up to kickstart your day, and it’s the aspect most researched. However, caffeine also has an impact beyond the brain, affecting other bodily organs.”
The Ingredients and Chemicals in Coffee Vary
Dr. Nazario points out that regular coffee consumption might offer health benefits. “Research indicates that coffee drinkers may have a reduced risk of developing conditions like diabetes, heart disease, Parkinson’s disease, and possibly fatty liver disease, compared to non-coffee drinkers,” she observes.
What’s in your coffee depends on where the beans originate, and also how you brew them. “But the most active ingredient is what gives us that much-needed morning boost! That’s caffeine,” says Dr. Nazario. “It stimulates the brain. It’s the perfect way to wake up and get energized for the day ahead, and what’s studied most. Caffeine also affects other organs.”
There Are Health Benefits
Dr. Nazario explains that drinking coffee daily may improve your health. “A few studies have suggested that enjoying coffee might lower the risk of certain conditions like diabetes, heart disease, Parkinson’s disease, and possibly fatty liver disease when compared to those who don’t drink coffee,’ she says.
However, There Can Be Negative Side Effects
“However, if you enjoy a delicious cup of unfiltered stuff, like Turkish or French press, it’s good to know that these brews have compounds that can raise bad cholesterol levels. Moderation can help keep things balanced,” says Dr. Nazario. “Since we still have more to learn about the connection between drinking coffee and these health benefits, it’s a bit too soon to start recommending coffee as a way to improve your health.”
Here Is What Happens If You Drink Coffee on an Empty Stomach
What happens if you drink it on an empty stomach? “When it comes to caffeine, it really depends on how much you’re having. Typically, enjoying less than 1-2 cups a day is perfectly fine and shouldn’t cause any issues. But caffeine is quickly and completely absorbed by your stomach, and if you drink it on an empty stomach, you might feel its effects more intensely,” explains Dr. Nazario. “Some people might experience side effects like a fast heart rate, jitters, headaches, stomach discomfort, or nausea.”
Listen to Your Body
The bottom line? “Enjoy your coffee, but listen to your body!” she says. There are also some great alternatives to coffee, “that have less caffeine but can still give you that energy boost you’re looking for,” she says. “Consider trying black tea, green tea, yerba mate, or matcha. Each one offers its own unique flavors and benefits.”