Caffeine lovers, you might want to rethink how much coffee you’re drinking on the daily. It’s easy to grab a cup on the go to get you through those long work hours or just to help you wake up in the morning, but there’s a small snag. GP Dr. Masarat Jilani has warned that drinking coffee in the morning may actually lead to unpleasant side effects long-term.
The Aging Gut: A Growing Sensitivity
“As we get older, our gut can become more sensitive,” Dr. Jilani explained. While a nice hot cup of coffee seems harmless now, drinking coffee on an empty stomach can especially exacerbate gut sensitivity, which can lead to more severe complications later on in life.
Why Coffee on an Empty Stomach Is a No-Go
Drinking coffee in the morning can irritate the gut as it increases acid production. This could trigger rather unpleasant acid reflux. According to WebMD, when acid reflux occurs, stomach acid flows into the esophagus and throat which causes heartburn.
“Normally, the LES (lower esophageal sphincter) closes as soon as food passes through it,” the site explains. “But if it doesn’t close all the way or opens too often, acid from your stomach can move up into your esophagus.” Explained Dr. Masarat Jilani.
The Timing of Your Coffee Matters
If you can’t imagine starting your day without drinking coffee in the morning, there are ways to help combat this need. Dr. Jilani suggests that it’s better to wait at least an hour after waking up before you make that first cup. You should also line your stomach beforehand to protect your stomach lining. She elaborated: “This gives your natural cortisol levels time to rise on their own and gives you a chance to eat something.”
Read More: 8 Health Benefits of Coffee and Tea
The Benefits of Delaying Drinking Coffee in the Morning
Not only does spacing out your coffee intake protect your gut. “Plus, spacing out your caffeine intake can lead to more stable energy levels throughout the day, rather than the sharp highs and crashes that come with an early caffeine hit,” Dr. Jilani added. This easy adjustment can aid in improved gut health and your daily energy, decreasing your dependency on caffeine.
Considering Bladder Sensitivity
Not only does coffee impact your gut health, but your bladder health too. “If you experience bladder sensitivity, you might want to try decaf or half-caffeinated options to see if they make a difference,” Dr. Jilani recommended. If you generally struggle with your bladder health, reducing your coffee intake may help minimize frequent trips to the bathroom and ease discomfort.
Caffeine Sensitivity and Individual Differences
Your body processes coffee differently depending on how sensitive you are to caffeine. We all have different tolerance levels to caffeine and knowing your limits is key. It’s also important to try to stay away from caffeine in the afternoon. “These simple changes can help reduce gut irritation, support bladder health, and promote more balanced energy levels throughout the day,” Dr. Jilani advised.
Conclusion: A Smarter Coffee Routine
We may love our coffee, making it a fundamental part of our daily ritual, but making simple adjustments can and will improve our overall health. From easy adjustments like a small meal before your morning cup to opting for decaffeinated options and avoiding coffee later on in the day, these adjustments may be your saving grace.
Read More: The Best Time To Drink Coffee, for Better Blood Sugar Control