Doctor warns of the consequences of drinking coffee on an empty stomach

Tengrinews.kz – Drinking coffee on an empty stomach in the morning can lead to serious consequences for digestion and heart function, Alexander Umnov, a senior lecturer at the Department of Surgery of the Medical Faculty of the State University of Education, told Lenta.ru.

The beverage, which is a powerful antioxidant, triggers a response in the form of a sharp increase in the production of gastric juice, leading to heartburn and stomach pain.

The doctor noted that drinking coffee on an empty stomach can cause gastritis and, eventually, ulcers and spontaneous bile reflux. He explained that this is dangerous because it can provoke a gradual, and sometimes even sudden, disruption of stomach motility.

“This bile can block and severely burn the throat, causing sudden breathing difficulties. A person may require medical assistance because hardly anyone carries an oral suspension to combat sudden heartburn with them at all times,” the doctor explained.

As for coffee’s effect on the nervous system, consuming it increases cortisol levels, which can lead to sudden anxiety and nervousness. According to the specialist, a person may become irritable and even start shouting at those around them or at their subordinates after a morning cup of coffee.

He added that people who do not get enough sleep, are under stress, or use coffee to mask their fatigue should take these health risks especially seriously.

“It is important to remember that strong coffee on an empty stomach can have a very sharp effect on the heart and blood pressure. This may not happen to everyone, but in general it is not entirely safe, especially during hot summer weather, when a person’s pulse is already elevated due to the body’s efforts to regulate temperature. If someone really enjoys drinking coffee in the morning, they should definitely eat something with it and then drink some water,” Umnov said.

The surgeon added that a huge number of emergency calls occur in the morning, when people are getting ready for work, leaving home, or commuting on public transport. Patients may lose consciousness and, in some cases, even die because of a sudden spike in blood pressure, a rapid increase in heart rate, and resulting heart problems, the expert concluded.