In this article, we share a list of healthy foods you should avoid eating first thing in the morning.
Avoid these foods first thing in the morning to ensure better health throughout the day
Some foods generally considered “healthy” might not be the best choice to start your day with, mainly because of how they interact with your body on an empty stomach. While these foods may be rich in nutrients, their high acidity, fibre, sugar content, or digestive demands can lead to issues like stomach discomfort, sluggishness, energy crashes, or poor nutrient absorption when consumed first thing in the morning. For a good start to the day, your breakfast should ideally be balanced offering protein, healthy fats, and complex carbs and gentle on your digestive system. Below we share a list of healthy foods you should avoid eating first thing in the morning.
These healthy foods are not the right way to start your morning
1. Citrus fruits
While citrus fruits are packed with vitamin C and antioxidants, their high acidity can irritate the stomach lining if eaten on an empty stomach. This might lead to heartburn or discomfort, especially for those with acid reflux or sensitive digestion.
2. Raw vegetables
Raw veggies are nutrient-dense but are also high in insoluble fibre, which can be harsh on an empty stomach. Eating them first thing in the morning might cause bloating, gas, or abdominal cramps, especially if your digestive system is not yet fully active.
3. Granola or muesli
Though often marketed as healthy, many commercial granolas are high in sugar and refined oils. Starting your day with a sugar spike can lead to a mid-morning energy crash, and excessive sugar intake in the morning can disturb blood sugar regulation throughout the day.
4. Green smoothies
Leafy greens like kale and spinach are healthy, but raw forms are high in oxalates and fibre. On an empty stomach, this can hinder calcium absorption or cause digestive issues like bloating or gas. Lightly steaming greens before blending can make them easier to digest.
5. Tomatoes
Rich in antioxidants and vitamin C, tomatoes are highly acidic. Eating them alone for breakfast can irritate the stomach lining and may contribute to gastritis or acid reflux symptoms over time, especially in people prone to digestive sensitivity.
6. Bananas
Though convenient and full of potassium, bananas have a high sugar content and are quite acidic. Eating one on an empty stomach can spike blood sugar levels and increase magnesium in the blood abruptly, which may disturb heart health in sensitive individuals.
7. Whole grains with bran
Bran-heavy cereals are rich in fibre, but eating too much insoluble fibre early in the morning without adequate hydration can cause bloating or digestive discomfort. It's best to balance these with protein or healthy fats and plenty of fluids.
8. Avocados
Though they're loaded with healthy fats and fibre, avocados can be too heavy for some people early in the day, especially if eaten alone. They may slow digestion and make you feel sluggish unless paired with protein or complex carbs to balance things out.
Avoid these foods first thing in the morning to ensure better health throughout the day.
Disclaimer: This content including advice provides generic information only. It is in no way a substitute for a qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your own doctor for more information. NDTV does not claim responsibility for this information.
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