Drinking coffee on an empty stomach is a common habit, but it can cause discomfort and hormonal imbalances. The acidity of coffee can irritate the stomach, and caffeine’s effects are amplified when consumed without food. This may lead to increased cortisol levels (the stress hormone) and blood sugar drops, which can be particularly noticeable for those who don’t drink coffee regularly.
The Science Behind It
Neuroscientist Andrew Huberman notes that caffeine on an empty stomach produces a stronger stimulant effect, which can increase jitters. While some people tolerate this well, the hormonal impact is real: coffee can temporarily raise cortisol, especially in those who don’t drink it daily. This spike is less severe in regular coffee drinkers, but sensitivity to blood sugar fluctuations remains a concern.
The Simple Solution: Add Collagen
Instead of skipping breakfast, try adding hydrolyzed collagen peptides to your coffee. This introduces calories in the form of amino acids without the sugar spike from sweeteners. Collagen also offers benefits for skin and gut health. The idea is to buffer the acidity and mitigate the hormonal response by providing the stomach with something to process alongside the caffeine.
Choosing a Supplement
When selecting collagen, prioritize sugar-free blends to avoid blood sugar spikes. Research high-quality supplements backed by nutritional experts. Many brands now offer curated lists based on scientific criteria.
The bottom line: If you prefer coffee before food, collagen peptides can reduce negative effects on your gut and hormones while providing additional health benefits.
