The debate over drinking coffee on an empty stomach has persisted, with social media posts suggesting it can spike stress hormone levels and harm the gut. However, some gastroenterologists contend that these concerns are largely unfounded.
Dr. Asma Khapra, a gastroenterologist at GastroHealth, stated that coffee does not appear to cause significant problems when consumed on an empty stomach. "Studies haven’t really shown that it causes problems [with] your cortisol or blood sugar or any other kind of metabolic issues," she told Fox News Digital.
Cortisol, a hormone that helps regulate the body's response to stress, naturally peaks in the morning. According to the Cleveland Clinic, the perceived "spike" from coffee might simply align with this natural process rather than being a direct side effect of the beverage.
Coffee, both caffeinated and decaffeinated, can stimulate the release of stomach acid and gastrin, a hormone that aids digestion. While this occurs regardless of whether food is present, some individuals may experience symptoms like nausea, abdominal discomfort, or an increased urge to use the bathroom when coffee is consumed on an empty stomach. Dr. Douglas Weine, a gastroenterologist, noted that caffeine, as a stimulant, can affect the central nervous system, potentially leading to increased blood pressure, heart rate, anxiety, and sleep disturbances.
The body does absorb coffee and its caffeine more rapidly on an empty stomach, according to the Cleveland Clinic. However, individual sensitivity to caffeine varies greatly, and many people do not experience adverse effects. Dr. Khapra concluded that it is generally fine to drink coffee on an empty stomach, provided it is not loaded with excessive amounts of cream, sugar, or other additives.