Starting your day with the right food choices can significantly impact your digestion and overall well-being. While many foods and drinks are nutritious, consuming them on an empty stomach might cause digestive discomfort or other health issues.

Here’s a quick guide on what to avoid first thing in the morning:

1. Citrus Fruits
Citrus fruits like oranges, lemons, and grapefruits are loaded with vitamins and antioxidants, making them a popular choice for those looking to boost their health. However, consuming these fruits on an empty stomach can increase acid production in the stomach. This can lead to heartburn, gastritis, and discomfort, especially for those prone to acid reflux. To enjoy citrus fruits without the side effects, pair them with other foods or wait until later in the day.

2. Coffee
For many, coffee is a morning ritual, but drinking it on an empty stomach can have unintended consequences. Coffee stimulates the production of stomach acid, which can cause irritation and discomfort, particularly when there’s no food to buffer the effects. Over time, this can lead to gastritis or other digestive issues. To protect your stomach, consider having a light snack before your morning brew or opt for a gentler alternative like herbal tea.

3. Sugary Foods and Drinks
Starting your day with sugary foods or beverages, such as pastries, sugary cereals, or fruit juices, might seem tempting, but it’s not the best choice. Consuming sugar on an empty stomach causes a rapid spike in blood sugar levels, followed by a sharp crash. This rollercoaster effect can leave you feeling sluggish, tired, and irritable. Instead of sugary snacks, opt for whole grains or protein-rich foods to maintain steady energy levels throughout the day.

4. Raw Vegetables
Raw vegetables are undeniably healthy, but they’re not the best option for an empty stomach. The high fiber content in raw veggies can be tough on your digestive system when it’s not fully active. Eating raw vegetables on an empty stomach can lead to bloating, gas, and discomfort. If you’re craving veggies in the morning, consider lightly steaming them or waiting until later in the day to enjoy them.

5. Spicy Foods
Spices like chili, garlic, and hot sauces can add a kick to your meals, but they’re not suitable for an empty stomach. Spicy foods can irritate the stomach lining, leading to acid reflux, indigestion, and in some cases, damage to your stomach’s protective lining over time. To avoid these issues, save the spicy dishes for later meals when your stomach is better prepared to handle them.

6. Bananas
Bananas are often seen as the perfect on-the-go snack, but eating them first thing in the morning might not be the best idea. Bananas are rich in magnesium, and consuming them on an empty stomach can cause a rapid increase in blood magnesium levels. This imbalance can affect the balance of magnesium and calcium in your blood, potentially leading to cardiovascular issues. Pair bananas with other foods to mitigate these effects.

7. Carbonated Drinks
Reaching for a soda or any carbonated drink on an empty stomach can lead to bloating, gas, and discomfort. The high levels of carbon dioxide can irritate the stomach lining and contribute to acid reflux. Instead of soda, start your day with water or herbal tea to hydrate and soothe your stomach.

Being mindful of these foods and drinks can help set a positive tone for your day, keeping your digestion smooth and your energy levels stable.