6 types of drinks to avoid on an empty stomach.
Some types of drinks can irritate the stomach or worsen discomfort if consumed on an empty stomach. Nutrition experts advise caution with the following six types.
Black coffee
According toReal SimpleAccording to nutritionist Jacqueline A. Vernarelli (Sacred Heart University, USA), coffee contains chlorogenic acid, which is acidic and stimulates the stomach to produce more acid. Drinking coffee on an empty stomach can lead to acid reflux, heartburn, anxiety, restlessness, tremors, and a rapid heartbeat.
According to Ms. Vernarelli, you can add a little milk to your coffee to reduce acidity and slow down caffeine absorption. Having a light snack like a banana or toast before your coffee is also a good option.

Strong tea
American nutritionist Kristen Carli says that the caffeine in tea can increase stomach acid production, causing nausea, reflux, or stomach cramps. Tea that is too hot can also irritate the esophagus and stomach.
She advised people to avoid very strong tea and to eat a light, high-fat or high-protein meal such as a boiled egg or whole-wheat bread before drinking tea.
Carbonated drinks
Carbonated water contains carbon dioxide; when it enters the stomach, this gas expands. According to expert Carli, if the stomach is empty, the gas can accumulate and rise, carrying stomach acid with it and contributing to reflux. People who drink carbonated water are prone to bloating.
Therefore, Carli advises limiting carbonated drinks or only drinking them after meals. If you still want to drink them before meals, you should sip them slowly and maintain an upright posture for at least 30 minutes.
Citrus juice
Orange, lemon, and grapefruit juices contain high levels of citric acid and sugar. The acidity of orange juice can irritate the stomach lining, worsening reflux symptoms.
According to expert Vernarelli, drinking juice on an empty stomach can cause cramps, nausea, and a sudden drop in blood sugar after a spike, leading to dizziness and fatigue. She advises people to eat foods rich in protein or fiber, such as nuts, yogurt, or eggs, before drinking juice.
Energy drinks
These drinks often contain high levels of caffeine and sugar, which can cause a rapid spike in blood sugar. When you're hungry, your body also absorbs sugar more quickly.
According to expert Vernarelli, energy drinks often contain taurine, guarana, and niacin, which can cause nausea on an empty stomach. She advises people to enjoy a protein-rich meal such as nuts, cheese, yogurt, or eggs to slow caffeine absorption and reduce gastrointestinal discomfort.
Alcohol
According to expert Carli, alcohol is absorbed quickly through the stomach lining. Without food to slow this process, blood alcohol levels can rise rapidly, causing the drinker to get drunk quickly and experience heartburn.
Alcohol also increases stomach acid secretion, irritates the mucous membrane, and affects glucose regulation, leading to hypoglycemia. Expert Carli advises people to eat a balanced meal of vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein before drinking alcohol. She also recommends choosing low-alcohol beverages and drinking water between drinks to reduce stomach irritation.


