GoodRx HealthIs It Bad to Drink Coffee on an Empty Stomach? A Dietitian Separates Fact From Fiction

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This article examines the effects of drinking coffee on an empty stomach, addressing common misconceptions and highlighting potential benefits. The research suggests that, although caffeine absorption may be faster without food, there’s no substantial evidence indicating harm from this practice.

Key Points:

• Caffeine absorption is quicker and reaches higher blood levels when consumed on an empty stomach.
• No evidence supports the notion that drinking coffee on an empty stomach is harmful.
• Coffee may enhance exercise performance, particularly when consumed before breakfast.
• Despite coffee’s acidity, research shows no clear link between coffee consumption and increased risk of reflux or ulcers.
• Coffee can affect gut bacteria composition, but the health implications of these changes remain unclear.
• Caffeine’s impact on nutrient absorption is minimal when consumed without food.
• Individual responses to coffee vary; physicians should advise patients to monitor personal symptoms and adjust consumption accordingly.

HCN Medical Memo
Research suggests that drinking coffee with a meal reduces iron absorption by 24% to 73%.

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