Coffee on an empty stomach or after breakfast – does the time of drinking coffee matter?

Morning coffee is a ritual for millions of people around the world. For some, it’s the first sip of energy even before breakfast; for others, it complements the morning meal. Does the time you drink coffee affect your well-being and health? What are the differences between a cup on an empty stomach and one after a meal? In this article, we explore studies, expert opinions, and cultural traditions to help you choose the best time for coffee. At JAVA Coffee Roasters, we believe that conscious coffee drinking is not just about taste, but also a daily ritual worth adapting to your lifestyle.

Table of Contents

• Coffee on an empty stomach – how does it affect the body?
• When is the best time to drink coffee in the morning?
• Frequently asked questions about coffee on an empty stomach

Coffee on an empty stomach – how does it affect the body?

Reaching for a cup of coffee before breakfast is a habit that, for many, has become an inseparable part of starting a new day. A quick caffeine “kick” helps wake you up, improves concentration, and gives a sense of readiness. But what actually happens in your body when you drink coffee on an empty stomach? Does it really give you energy, or might it disrupt natural hormonal and digestive rhythms? In this section, we take a look at the effects of morning coffee on the body – from energy levels and metabolism to digestive system function and hormonal response.

The effect of coffee on metabolism and energy levels

Caffeine in coffee is a well-known stimulant with multifaceted effects. After drinking a small black coffee, we feel less tired and more alert, because the substance blocks adenosine receptors in the brain, reducing sleepiness [1]. Coffee, especially when high in caffeine, also speeds up metabolism [1, 2], giving a quick energy boost and improving focus. It is also known to improve physical performance. Caffeine increases endurance, muscle strength, and delays the onset of fatigue during exercise [2]. This effect is so significant that caffeine is often treated as a natural “pre-workout.”

Also read:  Why drink coffee before training – 5 reasons!

In the context of morning stimulation, the timing of when we reach for coffee – before or after a meal – is important. When we drink it on an empty stomach, caffeine is absorbed faster and reaches higher blood levels in a shorter time. That’s why many people feel an intense “caffeine kick” just minutes later. For some, it’s the perfect way to start the day dynamically. On the other hand, such a strong effect can also lead to unpleasant symptoms, such as hand tremors, anxiety, or feeling jittery – especially in people sensitive to caffeine. Drinking coffee after breakfast softens these reactions – food in the stomach slows absorption, making the effect gentler and less abrupt. While it takes longer to kick in, it can last longer and still provide effective stimulation.

Did you know… Studies confirm that coffee consumed in the morning can increase metabolism by around 10% [2]. Caffeine stimulates the nervous system, which speeds up digestive processes, making black coffee a popular drink among people watching their weight.

Does coffee on an empty stomach cause irritation?

Although it's often said that coffee on an empty stomach can irritate the stomach, current studies show that for most healthy individuals it does not cause significant digestive issues [3]. Caffeine can indeed increase gastric acid secretion, but this effect is natural and temporary, and in regular coffee drinkers the body quickly adapts. Sensitivity to coffee is individual – if you experience discomfort after your morning cup, it’s worth trying to drink it after breakfast and observe your body's reaction. We write more on this topic in our separate article: Is coffee healthy? We confirm facts and debunk myths!

Caffeine, cortisol, and sugar – what happens in your body after the first cup?

Morning coffee has many benefits, but it's worth understanding exactly how it affects our body – especially cortisol and blood sugar levels. Cortisol (known as the stress hormone) naturally peaks shortly after waking – 30–45 minutes after getting up [4]. High morning cortisol is the body’s natural way of waking us up. It promotes the release of glucose into the blood, providing a “reserve of energy” to start the day. Hence the concern that drinking coffee immediately after waking (when cortisol is already high) might result in excessively high levels of this hormone?

When we reach for a morning cup of coffee, especially on an empty stomach, cortisol levels may temporarily rise even more, but don’t worry – it’s not a cause for concern. In people who regularly drink coffee, the body gets used to it and the hormonal response is much milder. For most of us, this poses no health risk and should be treated as an interesting fact about how our internal “start-up system” works.

More interesting things happen regarding blood sugar levels. In 2020, a major study at the University of Bath examined how drinking coffee before breakfast, after a poor night’s sleep, affects metabolism compared to drinking it after eating. The result? Blood sugar levels after the first meal were 50% higher if coffee was consumed beforehand [5]. That doesn’t mean morning coffee is bad, but the order matters – it’s better to eat something light first, then reach for a small black coffee. This way, the body manages energy more steadily, and it’s easier to maintain healthy sugar levels throughout the day.

Of course, there’s no need to fear morning coffee – especially if it's been part of your routine for years. But if coffee on an empty stomach makes you feel uncomfortable, be sure to read the article: Which coffee beans are gentle on the stomach? It contains tips on what to look for when choosing coffee, which varieties and roasting methods are gentler, and practical suggestions for drinking coffee in a more digestive-friendly way – without sacrificing taste or your morning ritual.

Did you know... Ordering a cappuccino after 11:00? In Italy, that’s a faux pas! An Italian breakfast is a quick cappuccino with a croissant at the bar – standing up, no fuss. Milk coffee is seen as a morning-only drink, while pure, strong espresso dominates later – often served after meals as a digestivo to aid digestion. It’s not just a culinary custom, but a near-national ritual – morning espresso is an essential part of the day there.

Coffee after breakfast – a healthier alternative?

Drinking coffee after breakfast is a great way to start your day with balance and full energy. The table below will help you quickly compare the key differences between drinking coffee on an empty stomach and after a meal.

Did you know… In Turkey, the rule is breakfast first, then coffee – and quite literally! The traditional Turkish breakfast (kahvaltı) literally means “before coffee.” Coffee is only served afterward as a sign of hospitality, relaxation, and togetherness. Served in a tiny cup, strong and aromatic, it’s a symbol of conversation and friendship – according to the saying: “a cup of coffee guarantees 40 years of friendship.”

When is the best time to drink coffee in the morning?

Although the saying “first coffee, then everything else” has a loyal fanbase, science suggests that waiting a bit for your first cup might offer some advantages. As you’ve learned from this article, our bodies naturally produce a high level of cortisol right after waking – a hormone that helps us feel alert. Drinking coffee during this peak may not harm you, but… it might not deliver the powerful effect you’re hoping for either. That’s why nutritionists often recommend the following:

1. Wait 30–60 minutes after waking up to let your body wake naturally,
2. drink a glass of water and eat something light during this time,
3. then reach for your coffee – once cortisol has slightly dropped and caffeine can take over as your “morning starter” [6].

Some studies suggest the best coffee window for people who wake around 6:30 a.m. is between 9:30–11:30 a.m. [4, 7] – when cortisol levels fall from their morning peak, making caffeine’s effect more noticeable and natural. And if you're planning a workout, brew your favorite coffee 30–60 minutes beforehand for maximum performance. Just remember, these are suggestions, not strict rules.

One thing to keep in mind is the time of day! Afternoon coffee can stay in your system for 6–8 hours [3], so it’s recommended to have your last cup by 2:00–3:00 p.m. to avoid disturbing your sleep.

Did you know… England is the birthplace of Europe’s first coffee houses – in the 17th century, London’s cafés were hubs of debate, intellectual gatherings, and business innovation. Today, morning coffee in the UK is more likely a flat white to go than a philosophical chat, but one thing hasn’t changed – coffee is an essential part of the day, even competing with traditional tea.

Let’s sum it up!

There’s no one perfect time to drink coffee that works for everyone – and that’s a good thing! For many, a cup of coffee is more than a caffeine source – it’s a ritual, a moment for oneself, a way to begin the day. If you’re used to drinking coffee on an empty stomach and feel good doing so – you don’t have to change a thing. This time especially suits people who train early or have no appetite in the morning, and coffee helps them “kick-start” the day.

However, if you notice that coffee without food causes discomfort, mood swings, or a sudden energy crash – it’s worth trying the post-breakfast version or combining it with a light snack. For many, this will simply be a gentler and more stable option, supporting metabolism and focus.

No matter which option you choose – the most important thing is that coffee becomes your ally! Make sure it accompanies you at the right time of day, in a way that fits your lifestyle. And remember – mindful choices aren’t restrictions, but rather greater comfort and enjoyment with every sip. Choosing JAVA Coffee Roasters ensures full flavor in every cup, no matter when you decide to drink it.

Frequently asked questions about coffee on an empty stomach

Is drinking coffee on an empty stomach harmful to your health?

For most healthy people, drinking coffee on an empty stomach is not harmful – it’s a popular myth not backed by research. However, some people, especially those with sensitive stomachs or acid reflux, may experience discomfort such as heartburn, acidity, or mild throat irritation.

When is the best time to have coffee in the morning?

According to our circadian rhythm, the best time for a cup of coffee is about 30–60 minutes after waking. In the morning, the body naturally produces high levels of cortisol – a hormone that stimulates and “boosts” metabolism. That’s why many experts recommend drinking a glass of water and eating something light before reaching for coffee. Of course, it all depends on your personal lifestyle.

How does drinking coffee on an empty stomach affect energy levels?

Drinking coffee on an empty stomach can indeed perk you up quickly – caffeine is absorbed faster, reaching high concentrations in the blood in a short time. That’s why your morning cup gives many people what’s often called an “energy kick.”

Is coffee after breakfast better than before?

For many people – yes, post-breakfast coffee may be the better choice. Having food beforehand slows caffeine absorption, resulting in a steadier and gentler stimulation. This also reduces the chance of a sharp energy spike followed by a crash, which is often felt after coffee on an empty stomach. Still, there’s no universal rule for everyone.

Sources

1. Coffee – The Nutrition Source, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, accessed: 04.05.2025.
2. Study suggests drinking coffee before exercise may help burn more fat, Medical News Today, accessed: 04.05.2025.
3. Should You Drink Coffee on an Empty Stomach?, Healthline, accessed: 04.05.2025.
4. Jennifer B Dowd et al., Education and salivary cortisol levels in U.S. adults, National Library of Medicine, accessed: 04.05.2025.
5. Drink coffee after breakfast, not before, for better metabolic control, University of Bath, accessed: 04.05.2025.
6. Is There a Best Time to Drink Your Coffee In the Morning?, Houston Methodist, accessed: 04.05.2025.
7. When Is the Best Time to Drink Coffee?, Healthline, accessed: 04.05.2025.