Lifestyle Desk: It is important to eat the right food at the right time. Starting the day with a light meal helps with digestion and absorption of nutrients. Eating the wrong foods on an empty stomach can cause discomfort, bloating or even long-term digestive problems. There are certain foods you should avoid in the morning or on an empty stomach. It is important to know about those foods. Let's know which foods not to eat on an empty stomach-

Foods

1. Citrus Fruits
Citrus fruits like oranges, lemons and grapes are rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, but it is not right to eat these fruits on an empty stomach. The high acidity of this fruit can irritate the stomach lining, especially in people prone to acid reflux or gastritis.

According to a study published in the Journal of Clinical Gastroenterology, high-acid foods can increase gastric acid secretion, making acid reflux worse. For those with pre-existing gastric problems, it is best to avoid acidic fruits on an empty stomach.

2. Spicy Foods
Although hot and spicy foods have many health benefits, they can cause gastric problems if eaten on an empty stomach. Spicy foods can increase stomach pain, heartburn and acid reflux. A review in PubMed found that a compound called capsaicin may delay gastric emptying. Through this process partially digested food and liquids leave the stomach and enter the duodenum for digestion and absorption of nutrients.

Although capsaicin does not prolong or is entirely responsible for heartburn or indigestion, it does cause considerable discomfort after ingestion, the researchers noted. So start your day with a smooth, soothing meal like oatmeal or a smoothie made with non-citrus fruits.

3. Sugary foods and drinks
Eating sweet foods, including pastries, fruit juices, and even sugary cereals, on an empty stomach can raise blood sugar levels. Without any other food to balance the absorption of sugars, blood glucose levels can rise sharply, then drop quickly again. This can make you feel tired and irritable.

According to research published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, high-sugar foods can trigger a rapid release of insulin, leading to an initial energy spike and then a crash. This cycle can increase your risk for insulin resistance over time, potentially affecting your weight and overall health.