Gastroenterologist told whether it is possible to drink coffee on an empty stomach

For many, the morning begins not with breakfast, but with a cup of coffee – often on an empty stomach, before meals. The habit seems innocuous, but it has physiological consequences to be aware of. This was told by Olga Patyukova, a gastroenterologist.

Coffee stimulates the production of hydrochloric acid in the stomach. On an empty stomach, acid is “without work”: there is nothing to digest, and it affects the stomach mucosa directly. In a healthy person, this rarely gives immediate consequences, but with regular repetition creates a constant irritating load.

Caffeine additionally stimulates the production of gastrin and enhances gastrointestinal motility, hence the burning sensation familiar to many and the sour taste after morning coffee.

Who should not drink coffee on an empty stomach

• People with gastritis, especially with high acidity - coffee on an empty stomach increases irritation of the inflamed mucosa;

• With GERD (reflux) - relaxation of the sphincter provokes the throwing of acid into the esophagus and heartburn;

• With peptic ulcer - an additional acid load is undesirable;

• People with irritable bowel syndrome

• People who drink coffee instead of breakfast.

This is not about the dangers of coffee. Moderate coffee consumption is associated with a number of positive effects. The problem is the combination of “strong coffee + empty stomach + regularly”.

How to Reduce Risks Without Giving Up Habits

• Eat something before coffee – even a small snack (yogurt, egg, toast) protects the mucosa;

• Dilute coffee with milk - reduces concentration and irritating effect;

• Drink water before coffee - helps to "wake up" the gastrointestinal tract softer;

• Do not drink more than 1-2 cups on an empty stomach, and better – transfer the coffee after breakfast;

Coffee is not the enemy and we don’t want to give it up. But there is a difference between a cup of coffee after breakfast and three cups on an empty stomach every morning.