At the crack of dawn, there's one thing we all crave: a jolt of energy to kickstart the day. Whether you're naturally an early riser or dread the mere thought of getting out of bed before 7 am, your morning routine likely includes a cup of coffee, but here's what you should know: coffee on an empty stomach may be doing more harm than good. Piqued your interest? Here's why coffee on an empty stomach isn't good for your skin...
Caffeine + Cortisol: Why Coffee On An Empty Stomach Isn't Good For Your Skin
Our bodies are fascinating, intricate systems, and one crucial component to consider is our cortisol levels. Cortisol, often dubbed the "stress hormone," peaks in the morning as part of our natural wake-up call. When the sun starts peeking over the horizon, our internal clock—the circadian rhythm—gets a gentle nudge, prompting our bodies to release more cortisol. It’s like Mother Nature's way of nudging us out of dreamland and into reality. Plus, cortisol helps manage vital bodily functions, like regulating blood sugar and metabolism, ensuring we are ready and in sync to tackle the day ahead.
But here's the thing: when you have a cup of coffee on an empty stomach, the caffeine can trigger a spike in cortisol, potentially causing a hormone imbalance. When you spike your cortisol levels even higher with the addition of caffeine on an empty stomach, you can spike other hormone imbalances, such as PCOS or acne, to name a couple. High cortisol levels can manifest in various symptoms, including:
Acne
Inflammation and redness
Skin irritation
Weight gain
Irritability and other mood swings
Headaches and migraines
Muscle aches
Brain volume reduction
Food First, Coffee Second
So if I shouldn't be drinking coffee, what should I have? The good news is that you don't need to kick coffee entirely. You can still enjoy the benefits of coffee as part of a healthy lifestyle when consumed at the right time. Before your first cup of coffee, prioritize a breakfast rich in high-quality proteins like eggs, avocado, and a slice of sourdough toast to fuel your body and stabilize cortisol levels. Focus on replenishing hydration levels with a mug of warm water with lemon, or a dash of Celtic sea salt.
What If I'm Not A Breakfast Person Or Intermittent Fasting?
If you typically don't enjoy breakfast or are intermittent fasting, rest assured there are other ways to ensure you can regulate cortisol levels before introducing caffeine to the body.
Have Acne? Try Tea First
If your skin is acne-prone or you are in that phase of your cycle (hello hormonal acne...) consider swapping warm water for caffeine-free spearmint tea. Unlike regular mint tea, spearmint tea is gentle on your skin and can help reduce excess oil and blemishes, leaving you with a fresh, glowing complexion. In addition to these benefits, spearmint tea offers soothing properties that may help alleviate skin inflammation, promoting a calmer and healthier complexion.
Starlight Skin Tip: Wait at least one hour after consuming tea before your first cup of coffee.
Weight Loss Or Detoxing? We've Got You
If you're committed to losing a few pounds or detoxing your body, consider apple cider vinegar (ACV) mixed with water. ACV is believed to offer weight loss benefits by promoting feelings of fullness and reducing caloric intake. Studies also suggest ACV may improve insulin sensitivity and lower blood sugar levels, aiding in weight loss and management.
Additionally, ACV can support the liver's natural detoxification process, helping your body rid itself of toxins and waste. This magic elixir kickstarts your day with a zesty shot while invigorating your body, mind, and skin.
Starlight Skin Tip: Mix no more than one tablespoon of ACV into an eight-ounce serving of water and wait at least one hour after consuming before your first cup of coffee.
Morning cortisol peaks are your body's natural way of signalling that it's time to rise and shine. But, with these spikes come fluctuations in hormone balances, affecting conditions like PCOS and acne. By nixing the practice of consuming coffee on an empty stomach, you're not just indulging in a delightful breakfast (or non-food alternatives) but also investing in your overall well-being—skin included!
Start your day on a nourishing note and swap that immediate cup of coffee for a morning routine that cares for your whole being. By making mindful choices, like savouring a wholesome breakfast or selecting the right beverages to replace it, you're taking a step toward smoother sailing for your mind, body, and glowing skin. So, go ahead and embrace the power of morning self-care; your body and radiant complexion will thank you.
This article should not be referenced in place of medical advice. Before implementing any changes, be sure to speak with your chosen health professional to determine what's right. for you.
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