Start your day right with coffee to increase energy and alertness! Coffee has also been proven to improve mood, brain function and exercise performance – but as an addictive stimulant it may cause digestive issues in some. If you experience acid reflux or stomach pains it would be wise to refrain from drinking coffee on an empty stomach for best results. Here’s why.

Coffee contains caffeine, which stimulates stomach acid production and lowers its pH levels, increasing stomach irritants such as gastric ulcers. Furthermore, drinking it on an empty stomach may irritate its lining, lead to ulcers, increase heartburn risk and worsen digestive disorders such as IBS; cause abdominal pain or diarrhea and disrupt absorption of essential nutrients.

If your stomach is sensitive, it may be best to wait to enjoy your first cup of the day until after breakfast. If that isn’t an option for you, consume it with food or healthy snacks in order to alleviate its acidity – such as adding milk, eggs, or stewed fruit to your beverage. If this proves challenging for you, perhaps trying drinking smaller cups or switching over to decaffeinated varieties.

Drinking caffeine on an empty stomach can stimulate your adrenal glands, increasing cortisol production and blood sugar levels – potentially leading to jittery symptoms, sugar cravings, anxiety and even high blood pressure – leading to weight gain as well as diabetes and heart disease.

Coffee on an empty stomach may lead to acid reflux and heartburn in some individuals, as its acid can irritate and damage cells lining the oesophagus, increasing risk for cancer in particular those suffering from Barrett’s Oesophagus whose cells have changed into those similar to stomach cells.

At most times, most people can safely enjoy their morning cup of coffee if they eat something prior to sipping their beverage of choice. If this is not possible for you, eating gelatine gummies, raw dairy or berries prior to coffee consumption may help prevent acid reflux and stomach aches. Also make sure that you drink water with each sip to stay hydrated; ultimately moderation is key and finding a balance that works for you!