The Impact of Drinking Coffee on an Empty Stomach

Drinking coffee on an empty stomach has sparked debate, with concerns about potential health effects making rounds on social media. The conversation often centers on whether this practice spikes cortisol— the stress hormone— and affects gut health. However, some gastroenterologists assert that it is not harmful.

A popular social media claim suggests that coffee consumption on an empty stomach might damage the protective lining of the gut. On platforms like TikTok, medical professionals have advised against the habit, stating it could lead to a rise in cortisol levels.

Cortisol is a steroid hormone produced by adrenal glands situated above the kidneys. It plays a key role in managing the body’s stress response. According to the Cleveland Clinic, imbalanced cortisol levels can influence a person’s health.

Dr. Asma Khapra, a gastroenterologist at GastroHealth in Fairfax, Virginia, offered insights to Fox News Digital. She noted, “Coffee doesn’t seem to cause major problems when consumed on an empty stomach. Studies haven’t demonstrated significant impacts on cortisol, blood sugar, or other metabolic issues.” Gastroenterologists often question the social media assertion that coffee consumption on an empty stomach leads to cortisol spikes.

The Cleveland Clinic explains that cortisol levels naturally peak in the morning. What some perceive as a coffee-induced cortisol spike could simply be a natural occurrence rather than a coffee aftereffect.

Caffeine can relax the valve between the esophagus and stomach, posing a potential for stomach acid to move into the esophagus, causing heartburn.

Both regular and decaf coffees promote the release of stomach acid and gastrin— a hormone involved in digestion. This reaction is similar whether or not food is present. Without food, symptoms like nausea, abdominal burning, or sudden bowel movements might occur, as noted by Dr. Douglas Weine, a New Jersey-based gastroenterologist.

Caffeine, a powerful stimulant, also activates the central nervous system, potentially leading to increased blood pressure, heart rate, anxiety, heart palpitations, and sleep disturbances. Some individuals have varying sensitivity levels to caffeine.

The Cleveland Clinic acknowledges that the body absorbs caffeine more rapidly on an empty stomach. However, many people note no adverse effects from this practice. Gastroenterologists concur that most healthy adults can drink coffee on an empty stomach without major side effects.

Dr. Khapra advises that drinking coffee on an empty stomach “shouldn’t really cause too many GI symptoms,” adding, “Enjoy your cup of coffee on an empty stomach,” as long as it is without excessive additives like cream, milk, or sugar.

Article by Sadie Chafe, Lifestyle writer at Fox News Digital.