Why Drinking Coffee First Thing in the Morning Might Be Bad for You

For many people, the day doesn’t begin until they’ve had their morning coffee. It’s a cherished ritual, and for some, an unshakable habit. However, a study suggests that drinking coffee first thing in the morning, especially before breakfast, might be doing more harm than good.

The Hidden Risks of Drinking Coffee on an Empty Stomach

While caffeine provides an energy boost, drinking coffee immediately after waking up may not be as beneficial as you think, especially if you skip breakfast. Researchers have found that having coffee before eating can disrupt the body’s blood sugar balance, particularly after a poor night’s sleep. This imbalance can increase the risk of developing conditions like diabetes and heart disease.

Drinking coffee on an empty stomach also stimulates the production of stomach acid, which can lead to unpleasant symptoms like heartburn, indigestion, and stomach discomfort.

The Cortisol Factor

One of the main reasons early-morning coffee may backfire is due to the natural rise in cortisol, the body’s “alertness” hormone, which peaks about 30 to 60 minutes after waking. According to experts, combining caffeine with this cortisol spike is not only unnecessary but can actually make you feel more jittery and anxious.

Tracy Lockwood Beckerman, a registered dietitian and author, explains: “Drinking coffee too early can lead to increased irritability and nervous energy. The combination of caffeine and cortisol can overstimulate the body.”

A Better Way to Enjoy Your Coffee

If you still want your daily cup of joe, here’s a smarter approach:

1. Start your morning with a glass of water to hydrate and help kickstart your system naturally.

2. Wait 1–2 hours after waking up — until your cortisol levels drop, before having coffee.

3. Have a light breakfast first to stabilize your blood sugar and reduce the impact on your digestive system.

Struggling to Delay Your Coffee?

Alison Stone, a holistic psychotherapist based in New York, offers a mindful tip: “If you’re reaching for coffee out of habit, try postponing it until you can sit down and really enjoy it. Turn it into a calming moment rather than a rushed fix.”

Drinking coffee the moment you wake up might not be doing your body any favors. A small shift in your routine, such as delaying coffee and having a light breakfast first, could lead to better energy, less stress, and improved digestion throughout the day.