Can Coffee on Empty Stomach Cause Gastritis? – Explained

Drinking coffee after waking up is more like a ritual for coffee snobs and many people. But as an avid coffee drinker, you may wonder, “Can coffee on an empty stomach cause gastritis?”

Coffee may have its benefits, but at the same time, it includes both acid and caffeine. Coffee is not recommended for you, especially if you are diagnosed with extreme gastritis. 

But, if your gastritis is mild, then there is a safe way to enjoy the magic drink. You can try having coffee with your breakfast instead of on an empty stomach.

What is gastritis? 

Gastritis is a severe condition that causes the stomach’s lining to get inflamed. There may be many different causes behind gastritis.

Though infection is the primary cause of gastritis, it can lead to inflammation and, in the worst cases, ulcers. Furthermore, gastritis can be triggered by consuming certain acidic foods and drinks.

These affect the protective lining of the stomach. The stomach’s protective lining acts as a barrier between the stomach lining and the tissue underneath.

The frequency of the symptoms depends upon the inflation of the stomach lining. An upset stomach is the first symptom of gastritis. 

People may face other symptoms such as vomiting, stomach pain, and a loss of appetite. It can also cause bloating and gastritis making the abdomen swollen up.

You may also like to read this: Does Drinking Coffee Keep You Awake? Answer & Guide

Effects of coffee on gastritis? 

Drinks, including coffee and alcohol, may harm gastritis, especially on an empty stomach. So, your first cup of java opens your eyes, but it can create havoc and jumpstart acid production. 

This gets worse and causes gastritis, especially if you haven’t had anything to eat before having coffee. According to the studies, coffee relaxes the lower esophageal sphincter and leaves the valve open.

As a result, the acid may tend to speed in the esophagus causing acid reflux. You may feel heartburn and sharp pain in your chest, causing gastritis.

Can you drink coffee if you have gastritis?

The release of gastric acids and enzymes is very normal. It tends to happen despite what you eat or drink, but you can drink coffee if you have mild gastritis.

Since coffee is acidic, it may lead to increased stomach acids, especially on empty stomachs. It is why having coffee without eating anything first may make your stomach “a bowl of gastric acids.”

As an avid coffee lover, I am sure you may be feeling panicked by now. However, the good news is that having coffee and alkaline foods lowers gastric acid production.

So, if coffee is your fuel to energize you during the day, try having it with your breakfast. You can include alkaline foods like avocado and oatmeal, along with coffee, in your breakfast.

Does decaffeinated coffee cause gastritis on an empty stomach?

Compared to regular coffee, decaffeinated coffee may have a lower level of caffeine. But, it has the same amount of acid as regular coffee.

This is why having decaffeinated coffee on an empty stomach can also cause gastritis. Like regular coffee, it can cause a spike in acid levels if you have gastritis.

This excessive acid production can damage your stomach’s lining, especially if you don’t have anything to eat. Furthermore, you must avoid having acidic beverages like espresso, fruit juice, and soft drinks. 

Check out our: 7 Best Medium Roast Espresso Beans | Reviews in 2024

How to change your coffee-drinking schedule? 

In case you suffer from gastritis, then it is recommended to stop having coffee altogether. But, in mild gastritis cases, you may be able to drink coffee if you stick to a specific schedule.

Instead of having coffee on an empty stomach, you must have breakfast and have your java fix afterward. Avoid adding sugar or milk to your coffee as it may eliminate the health benefits of coffee. 

It would help if you switched to organic coffee instead of processed coffee. This also helps to reduce your exposure to synthetic pesticides.

You can switch to drinking coffee in moderation rather than cup after cup. The key to setting your coffee-drinking schedule is how your body responds. 

Let’s Dive In Some FAQs about Can Coffee On Empty Stomach Cause Gastritis

Can drinking coffee on an empty stomach irritate the stomach?

Yes, coffee can irritate the stomach if you drink it on an empty stomach. Coffee contains caffeine and other chemicals that can stimulate the production of stomach acid, which can lead to gastritis.

How can I treat gastritis naturally?

Several natural remedies can help treat gastritis, including:

• Eat smaller meals more frequently throughout the day.
• Avoid trigger foods that irritate the stomach, such as spicy or acidic foods.
• Add probiotic-rich foods to your diet, such as yogurt or sauerkraut.
• Drink plenty of fluids, especially water, to keep the stomach hydrated.
• Try herbal teas, such as ginger or chamomile tea, to help soothe the stomach.

Does coffee help with gastritis?

No, coffee does not help with gastritis. Drinking coffee on an empty stomach can irritate the stomach and lead to gastritis. If you suffer from gastritis, it’s best to avoid drinking coffee altogether.

How long after waking up should I drink coffee?

It’s best to wait at least 30 minutes after waking up to drink coffee. This gives your body time to wake up and start producing stomach acid. 

Drinking coffee on an empty stomach can irritate the stomach and lead to gastritis.

Is it bad to drink coffee first thing in the morning?

Yes, it is bad to drink coffee first thing in the morning. Coffee contains caffeine and other chemicals that can stimulate the production of stomach acid, which can lead to gastritis. 

It’s best to wait at least 30 minutes after waking up to drink coffee.

What happens when you drink coffee on an empty stomach?

Drinking coffee on an empty stomach can irritate the stomach and lead to gastritis. Caffeine and other chemicals in coffee may cause the stomach to produce more acid, which can cause the lining of the stomach to become inflamed. It’s best to wait at least 30 minutes after waking up to drink coffee.

What should I eat after drinking coffee on an empty stomach?

Ideally, you should eat a small meal that is easy to digest after drinking coffee on an empty stomach. This will help to settle your stomach and avoid further irritation. 

Try toast with butter or jam, yogurt, or a banana. Avoid eating spicy or acidic foods, as these can trigger gastritis.

What are the benefits of drinking coffee on an empty stomach?

There are no known benefits of drinking coffee on an empty stomach. Doing so can irritate the stomach and lead to gastritis.

Bottom Line 

According to the experts, there is no link between the consumption of coffee and gastritis. Nevertheless, having coffee on an empty stomach may jumpstart the production of stomach acids that can worsen gastritis. 

Gastritis, if left untreated in the long run, may lead to bleeding in the stomach or even ulcers. So, if you suffer from severe gastritis, it is better to stop having coffee altogether.

People with mild gastritis can safely consume coffee. But having coffee on an empty stomach is still not a good idea for them.

Coffee is one of the most popular beverages among people around the world. For avid coffee drinkers, coffee is essential to their daily routine. 

It’s best to sip your favorite cup of java with a meal. Rather than having it on an empty stomach.

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