AVOID THESE FOODS WHEN YOUR STOMACH IS EMPTY

The Goal

The goal of healthy eating is not just about choosing foods that are good for you. Instead, for maintaining good health – ‘when’ you eat is just as important as ‘what’ you eat! If you are eating all the right foods but at the wrong time, it can do more harm than good!

Let us explore the foods that are otherwise healthy but may not be the best pick to be eaten on an empty tummy.

Citrus fruits and juices

Citrus fruits such as oranges, grapefruit, and sweet lime, among others are acidic in nature. Thus, if eaten on an empty stomach in the morning, it can lead to acidity and tummy ache. Better eat these fruits as a mid-meal - two hours before/after lunch. Certain juices such as orange juice also need to be avoided on an empty stomach, as they too may cause heartburn and unhealthy spikes in blood sugar level.

Tomato

Although a storehouse of nutrients, tomatoes are not a wise choice to consume on an empty stomach. The tannic acid found in them leads to gastric problems and acidity. A better way is to have them grilled or baked along with your breakfast. It will add an extra dose of vitamins and minerals to your platter. 

Raw green vegetables

Eating raw green veggies on an empty tummy is not a great idea. The insoluble fibre present in them may harm the delicate stomach lining. This may lead to bloating and stomach ache due to gas production. Steam or grill your veggies if you want to have them in your morning meal. 

Yogurt

Yogurt contains lactic acid bacteria, which is good for your gut health. However, when eaten as a first thing in the morning, it produces hydrochloric acid in the stomach that kills all the good bacteria of the yogurt, thus causing stomach pain and acidity. So, if you prefer eating yogurt in your breakfast, always team it up with some solid foods such as whole grain paratha, muesli, or multi-grain granola. 

Tea/ coffee

For most of us going through the day without morning tea or coffee is almost impossible. But, this is exactly where we go wrong! Tea and coffee contain caffeine. And, if taken as the first thing on an empty stomach, caffeine stimulates the secretion of acid in the stomach leading to acidity, heartburn, and indigestion. So if you just can’t think to start your day without your cuppa, then better go for green tea.

An empty stomach is sensitive since it is completely devoid of food for a number of hours. So, be wise to choose the right food items to take as your first meal.

Stay cautious to stay healthy!

Thanks for reading...