Starting Your Day Wrong? Fitness Expert Lists 3 Foods to Skip on an Empty Stomach and Shares Better Choices

Many of us start our mornings with foods that seem harmless or even healthy, without realising they might not be the best choices on an empty stomach. We’re not unaware, it’s just that these habits have been passed down for generations. Maybe you grew up hearing that a glass of milk is the perfect start, or that fruit is nature’s breakfast. But are these really the best options before your day begins? Read ahead to know about the list of food items that you should skip on an empty stomach and what you can have instead as a better option. 

3 Foods to Skip on an Empty Stomach

 

 

 

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A post shared by Siddhartha Singh (@officialsiddharthasingh)

Fitness expert Siddhartha Singh shared a list of a few items that one should be cautious about on an empty stomach. 

1. Milk

Surprised? For many, milk is a morning staple. But Siddhartha Singh warns that drinking plain milk on an empty stomach can cause problems for some people. “A glass of milk can cause acidity, heaviness, and even mucus formation,” he explains. You might have heard elders say that milk helps you grow strong, but it doesn’t suit everyone, especially first thing in the morning. If you often feel heavy or get an upset stomach after your morning milk, this could be why.

Better Choice:

Pair milk with something, like oats or soaked nuts. You can also use milk after you’ve had a meal. This helps reduce acidity and makes it easier for your body to digest.

ALSO READ: Fitness Expert Shares 3 Worst Breakfast Options For Busy People

2. Fruits

Fruit is often seen as the healthiest breakfast, but eating it alone on an empty stomach isn’t always a good idea. “Fruits have fructose and fibre, which can cause bloating, gas, and sometimes even loose motion,” says Singh. Plus, the natural sugars in fruit can make your insulin spike, leading to more cravings soon after. If you’ve ever felt hungry again soon after a fruit-only breakfast, this could be the reason.

Better Choice:

Eat fruits as part of a balanced meal. Pair them with yoghurt or a handful of nuts. This slows down the sugar absorption and gives you longer-lasting energy.

3. Black Coffee

Many people can’t imagine starting their day without coffee, especially black coffee. But Singh says, “Black coffee can cause acid reflux and jitters on an empty stomach.” The caffeine can make your stomach produce more acid, which leads to discomfort and sometimes even anxiety or shakiness.

Better Choice:

Before your coffee, have a few soaked almonds. Or, add a splash of milk or some protein powder to your coffee. This helps balance your body’s response and prevents a big spike in stress hormones like cortisol.

Why These Choices Matter

The foods you eat first thing in the morning set the tone for your digestion, energy, and mood all day. Starting with foods that are harsh on your empty stomach can lead to discomfort, cravings, or even digestive problems later. By making simple swaps, you can feel lighter, more energetic, and ready for the day.

What Should You Eat Instead?

• Oats with milk and nuts: This combo gives you fibre, protein, and healthy fats.
• Yoghurt with fruit and seeds: Adds probiotics and balances the sugar in fruit.
• Soaked almonds or walnuts: Gentle on the stomach and packed with nutrients.
• Eggs with whole-grain toast: Keeps you full and steady for hours.

ALSO READ: Do Cashew Nuts Raise Cholesterol? Expert Debunk the Myths and Reveal Side Effects

Conclusion

We all want a healthy start to the day, but some common foods might be doing more harm than good when eaten on an empty stomach. Fitness expert Siddhartha Singh’s advice is simple: pair your favourite foods with other healthy options, and listen to your body. Small changes in your morning routine can make a big difference in how you feel all day.