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For millions of people, the day does not truly begin without a cup of coffee. In fact, coffee is one of the most widely consumed beverages in the world, second only to water in many countries. Known for boosting alertness, improving mood, and enhancing mental and physical performance, coffee has clear benefits.
However, a common concern remains: Is drinking coffee on an empty stomach bad for your health? This question continues to spark debate among doctors, nutritionists, and everyday coffee lovers.

Coffee on an Empty Stomach and Digestion: Is It Harmful?

One of the most common beliefs is that coffee on an empty stomach increases stomach acid and irritates the digestive system. Coffee’s naturally bitter compounds can stimulate acid production in the stomach, which explains why some people feel discomfort after their morning cup.

That said, research has not found strong evidence that coffee alone causes digestive diseases. For most healthy individuals, the stomach lining is well protected against acid even without food.

However, there is an important exception. People who already have sensitive digestion may notice:

Acid reflux or heartburn
Nausea or bloating
Worsening symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)

In short, coffee is not harmful to everyone, but your personal response matters. If symptoms appear after drinking coffee on an empty stomach, it may be best to adjust your routine.

Does Morning Coffee Increase Stress Hormones?

Another popular claim is that drinking coffee first thing in the morning raises cortisol, the body’s main stress hormone. Cortisol naturally peaks shortly after waking up and then gradually declines throughout the day.
While caffeine can slightly stimulate cortisol release, studies show that regular coffee drinkers develop tolerance, meaning the effect is much smaller over time. For most people, morning coffee does not lead to unhealthy stress hormone levels.
So, although coffee can influence cortisol, it is unlikely to cause long-term harm in habitual drinkers.

Can Coffee on an Empty Stomach Cause Ulcers?

This is one of the biggest myths surrounding coffee. Many believe that drinking coffee on an empty stomach can lead to stomach ulcers. Medical evidence clearly shows this is not true.

The primary causes of stomach ulcers are:

Infection with Helicobacter pylori bacteria
Long-term use of painkillers such as ibuprofen or aspirin (NSAIDs)

Coffee does not damage the stomach lining in a way that causes ulcers. While it may worsen pain in people who already have ulcers, it is not the root cause.

Is There a “Best Time” to Drink Coffee?

According to health experts, there is no universal best time to drink coffee. The right time depends entirely on how your body reacts.
Some people can comfortably drink coffee on an empty stomach with no side effects at all. Others feel better when coffee is consumed with food. Listening to your body remains the most reliable guide.

How to Make Coffee Gentler on Your Stomach

If black coffee first thing in the morning causes discomfort, pairing it with food can help. Experts recommend the following options:

Add Fibre: Whole grains like oats, cereal, or whole-grain toast can help buffer stomach acid and support digestion.
Include Healthy Fats: Foods such as nuts, nut butters, or avocados may reduce inflammation and ease acid-related irritation.
Choose Protein-Rich Foods: Eggs, yogurt, or cottage cheese slow digestion and caffeine absorption, making coffee easier on the stomach.

Conclusion

For most healthy adults, drinking coffee on an empty stomach is not dangerous. There is no solid scientific proof linking it to ulcers, chronic digestive damage, or harmful stress hormone spikes.
However, individual sensitivity varies. If you notice discomfort, pairing coffee with a balanced breakfast is a simple and effective solution.
Ultimately, when it comes to coffee on an empty stomach, personal tolerance, not myths, should guide your daily routine.

Source: Inputs from various media Sources

Priya Bairagi

Copy-Writer & Content Editor

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I’m a pharmacist with a strong background in health sciences. I hold a BSc from Delhi University and a pharmacy degree from PDM University. I write articles and daily health news while interviewing doctors to bring you the latest insights. In my free time, you’ll find me at the gym or lost in a sci-fi novel.