What are the three foods that should not be eaten in the morning?
Generally speaking, there is no such thing as "three foods that cannot be eaten in the morning." However, it is usually not advisable to consume high-sugar foods, spicy or stimulating foods, greasy and hard-to-digest foods, chilled foods, strong tea, or coffee upon waking. The specific analysis is as follows:
1. High-sugar foods: On an empty stomach in the morning, consuming high-sugar foods can cause a rapid spike in blood glucose levels, triggering excessive insulin secretion. This may subsequently lead to a sharp drop in blood sugar, resulting in dizziness, fatigue, and difficulty concentrating. Over time, this pattern increases the burden on the pancreas and raises the risk of insulin resistance. Additionally, high-sugar foods are low in nutritional density and fail to provide sustained energy, making one prone to hunger earlier in the morning.
2. Spicy and stimulating foods: In the early morning, the gastrointestinal mucosa is relatively vulnerable. Components such as capsaicin and allicin found in spicy foods can directly irritate the gastrointestinal lining, potentially causing gastric burning, spasms, or worsening discomfort in individuals with gastritis or gastric ulcers. Moreover, these spicy components stimulate excessive gastric acid secretion. Without food in the stomach to neutralize the acid, the gastric mucosal barrier may be damaged, increasing the risk of gastrointestinal disorders.
3. Greasy and hard-to-digest foods: In the morning, gastrointestinal motility is slow and digestive enzyme secretion is insufficient. Digesting greasy foods relies heavily on bile from the liver and pancreatic juice from the pancreas, placing extra strain on the liver, gallbladder, and gastrointestinal tract. This may result in bloating, belching, and indigestion. Long-term consumption may also lead to fluctuations in blood lipids due to slow fat metabolism, posing particular risks for individuals with cardiovascular disease.
4. Chilled foods: Low temperatures can cause sudden constriction of blood vessels in the stomach and intestines, slowing gastrointestinal motility and impairing the secretion of digestive fluids, potentially leading to abdominal pain or diarrhea. Additionally, the cold stimulus may trigger neural reflexes affecting the cardiovascular system, causing increased heart rate and blood pressure fluctuations. This is especially concerning for individuals with sensitive gastrointestinal tracts or compromised cardiovascular function, who may experience discomfort more easily.
5. Strong tea or coffee: Tannins in strong tea can bind with undigested proteins in the stomach, forming insoluble precipitates that interfere with the absorption of nutrients from breakfast. Caffeine in strong coffee stimulates gastric acid secretion, which on an empty stomach may exacerbate irritation of the gastric mucosa. It can also excite the central nervous system, potentially causing palpitations and anxiety or restlessness in the morning, particularly among those sensitive to insomnia. It is recommended to opt for weak tea or consume coffee after meals.
To maintain health, it's important to cultivate good daily habits and follow a balanced diet. Prioritize gentle, nutritious options such as porridge, eggs, whole-grain bread, and warm milk in the morning—these ease the body’s transition into activity while providing sustained energy.