The first meal in the morning is very important as you are eating after a gap of almost 10 to 12 hours. Being mindful of what you eat after this gap is essential to keep your health intact. The first thing that goes inside your stomach while you start your day decides how the rest of your day will proceed.
Some foods can cause gut or digestive problems in your stomach if consumed empty stomach even though they are healthy. In this article we will explore what foods you should not eat on an empty stomach.
To get a clear understanding on what to avoid eating first thing in the morning, OnlyMyHealth team interacted with Aarya Jagushte, Nutritionist and Quality Assurance Executive, Mumbai.
Foods To Not Eat On Empty Stomach
To safeguard your digestive system and gut, it is essential to keep a check on what you eat first thing in the morning. Following is the list of foods you should not eat on an empty stomach with Nutritionist Jagushte’s insights.
1. Citrus Fruits
Citrus fruits such as oranges, lemons, grapefruit, limes should be avoided on an empty stomach. “These fruits contain high levels of citric acid which can increase stomach acidity, leading to heartburn and related issues,” Jagushte said.
2. Tea
Yes, bed tea is comforting and a boost for you to get ready for your day but when the question of health arrives, is it okay to drink tea on an empty stomach? As per study, it was found that people may experience irritation after consuming strongly brewed tea empty stomach. Jagushte said, “Tea, when consumed on an empty stomach, can cause nausea and heartburn due to its tannin pancreas to release insulin to regulate blood sugar. This process can lead to fatigue and increased hunger.”
3. Spicy Foods
One should not go for spicy foods such as curries or chinese dishes, right in the morning. They can irritate the stomach lining leading to discomfort and affecting digestion and excretion.
4. Coffee
Are you someone who cannot start your day without a brewing hot cup of coffee? I am sorry to break it to you but it is not healthy to do so. “Coffee is rich in caffeine, known for its alertness-boosting properties. However, when consumed on an empty stomach, it can have the opposite effect, potentially causing anxiety and nervousness,” Jagushte said.
Also read: Energise Your Body With These Foods Instead Of Coffee
5. Yoghurt
Undoubtedly, yoghurt is healthy as it is rich in probiotics and calcium. However, when consumed on an empty stomach, the stomach's acidic environment can kill healthy gut bacteria, reducing its nutritional value.
6. Oil Foods
One must avoid eating deep fried or oily foods like pooris and fritters empty stomach. As per Jagushte, oily foods are high in fat content which can cause bloating and feelings of indigestion leading to lethargy.
Conclusion
As the first meal of the day is the most important one, it is significant to choose what you eat on an empty stomach wisely. Eating the above mentioned foods can irritate your stomach and digestive system and cause various gut health problems. Eat healthy and mindfully!