Studies to date suggest that caffeine may be absorbed more quickly if consumed on an empty stomach, but it will not lead to hormonal imbalance for most people. There is no evidence to show that drinking coffee on an empty stomach affects cortisol levels. The body naturally produces cortisol in the morning, which is not related to coffee intake.
Most research suggests that coffee offers positive health benefits. However, if we are not experiencing any positive symptoms, we may want to re-evaluate consumption entirely or opt for a cup of decaf or low-acid cold-brewed coffee.
Does coffee cause bloating?
Some TikTokers mentioned that coffee causes bloating, but most health experts say this is probably not related to cortisol. The caffeine in coffee can stimulate digestion, which can cause digestive upset such as gas and bloating.
To drink cow’s milk coffee it can also cause bloating if someone has a sensitivity to dairy. So it’s best to try lactose-free or non-dairy options in your coffee to see if this eases the gastric upset a bit. This drink can also increase the release of stomach acid in some people, which can lead to indigestion and bloating.
While snacking before coffee may ease fatigue and discomfort for some, the claims made in these TikToks may only apply to certain people. In addition to drinking coffee, other factors such as medications or morning exercises can also influence digestion.
Should you eat breakfast before drinking coffee?
Most experts agree that there isn’t enough evidence to make a definitive statement about eating breakfast before coffee.
A 2020 study seemed to recommend eating breakfast before coffee in the morning, but the study’s lead author says there’s no evidence to point to a specific correlation. The researchers looked at how a poor night’s sleep can affect metabolism. The results suggested that drinking coffee right after a poor night’s sleep could affect blood sugar controlbut the study did not look at any long-term impact.
Rather than focus on when we drink coffee in relation to breakfast, experts say it’s better to pay attention to the body’s response to caffeine. People differ in how they respond to caffeine. If a certain person feels uncomfortable or nervous after consuming caffeine, they can switch to decaf and enjoy a cup of joe without the discomfort.