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Skipping meals or going too long without eating can sometimes be unavoidable due to a busy schedule. However, certain activities and habits can be particularly harmful when done on an empty stomach. Here are five things you should avoid doing without having eaten in the last few hours.
1. Drinking Plain Coffee
Even if you opt for decaf, drinking coffee on an empty stomach can trigger the production of stomach acid, which can lead to heartburn and other digestive issues. This effect occurs because coffee stimulates acid secretion in the stomach, even when no food is present to absorb it. To minimize these negative effects, try adding milk or cream to your coffee. The fats in these additions help to neutralize the acidity and reduce the risk of stomach discomfort.
2. Chewing Gum
Chewing gum when your stomach is empty can lead to unnecessary production of gastric juices, which are meant to digest food. Without food to break down, these juices can irritate the stomach lining, leading to pain and discomfort. Over time, this habit can even increase the risk of developing gastritis or ulcers. If you must chew gum, try to limit it to no more than 10 minutes, and choose sugar-free options without artificial sweeteners like cyclamate and aspartame, which can further irritate the stomach.
3. Shopping While Hungry
Have you ever gone grocery shopping on an empty stomach and ended up with a cart full of unnecessary items? When you’re hungry, your body sends signals to your brain that prioritize food, making you more likely to buy things you don’t actually need. This can happen in any type of store, but it’s especially problematic in supermarkets where food is readily available. To avoid this, try making a shopping list beforehand and stick to a budget. Paying with cash or using a set amount on a card can also help control impulsive purchases.
4. Drinking Alcohol
Consuming alcohol on an empty stomach can significantly speed up its absorption, potentially doubling or even tripling the effects. This not only increases the likelihood of a severe hangover the next day but can also strain your heart, liver, and kidneys. If you can’t avoid drinking, opt for non-carbonated beverages, as carbonated drinks are absorbed even more quickly and can intensify the negative effects of alcohol.
5. Sleeping on an Empty Stomach
Going to bed hungry can disrupt your sleep and have long-term negative effects on your health. Low blood sugar levels can cause you to wake up earlier than usual or lead to a restless, light sleep. While it’s also not advisable to go to bed with a full stomach, a light snack, such as dairy products, can help you sleep more soundly. This ensures that your body has enough energy to maintain stable blood sugar levels throughout the night.
While it might be tempting to power through the day without eating, especially when you’re busy, it’s important to be mindful of how an empty stomach can affect your body. Avoiding these five activities when you’re hungry can help protect your health and improve your overall well-being. So, next time you reach for that cup of coffee or consider skipping a meal before bed, remember the potential consequences and try to make choices that support your body’s needs.
What do you think about these tips for things you shouldn’t do on an empty stomach? 🙂
Photo by Robin Stickel
