Side Effects of Drinking Coffee on an Empty Stomach

Drinking coffee first thing in the morning without eating something can negatively impact glucose tolerance, affecting your body's ability to regulate blood sugar levels. Here are some other ill effects that you might experience in this scenario.

Coffee stimulates the production of stomach acid, thus irritating the stomach, exacerbating symptoms of gut disorders like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and contributing to issues such as heartburn, ulcers, and acid reflux. 

Excessive coffee consumption may elevate stress hormones like cortisol, which, although essential for regulating metabolism, blood pressure, and blood sugar levels, can pose health risks when chronically elevated. These risks include bone loss and high blood pressure.

Drinking coffee on an empty stomach may induce jitters, shakes, and withdrawal effects, resulting in mood changes that can be undesirable.

Coffee is a notable contributor to oxidative stress and inflammation within the body. Conditions such as fatigue, skin problems, diabetes, and autoimmune disorders can be linked to inflammation.

It is advisable to time your coffee consumption appropriately. To minimise its negative effects, it is recommended you have your coffee late in the morning, shortly after having breakfast.