Endocrinologist Francisco Rosero warns about coffee: "It's thought to be good to drink on an empty stomach, but..."

If there's one breakfast custom that prevails in Spain, above other preferences, such as what we like to eat next, etc., it's enjoying a warm cup of coffee. It comforts us and helps us face the day with energy (thanks, among other things, to the caffeine it contains ). Thus, coffee is part of the breakfast menu for the vast majority of the population.

Consumed in moderation (a maximum of four small cups a day, according to the recommendations of the European Food Safety Authority ), coffee can be part of a balanced and varied diet without any problems. However, endocrinologist Francisco Rosero has only one objection to its beneficial properties, thanks primarily to its antioxidant content, in an informative video on his social media. What does he mean?

Why we shouldn't drink coffee on an empty stomach, according to experts.

Having coffee for breakfast keeps us alert in the morning, helps us concentrate , and kick-starts the day. It's a common practice in most Spanish homes, but it could be causing a digestive problem without us even knowing it.

Indeed, endocrinologist Francisco Rosero confirms that drinking coffee in the morning is beneficial for your health (always in moderation). However, the expert warns: "Don't drink coffee on an empty stomach. Remember this: always remember to drink a glass of water before drinking it."

Why does the endocrinologist suggest drinking water before coffee? Rosero's reason is that "when we wake up in the morning, we've slept for more than eight hours without drinking anything, and our body wakes up dehydrated ." Therefore, the first step is to rehydrate: "The most important thing is to start activating your digestive system, your brain, and your entire body , and only water does that. Coffee can worsen dehydration."

How does water help the body stabilize in the morning?

As the endocrinologist explains, a cup of coffee on a completely empty stomach will only intensify the lack of fluids that the night's rest has been creating. "When we drink water, we dilute the gastric acids in our stomach. That way, when the coffee arrives, it won't irritate us at all."

And he adds: "No, I'm not saying you should give up your morning coffee; just that you should have it after a glass of water." With this simple home remedy, the specialist confirms that it's easier to avoid typical breakfast digestive discomforts such as heartburn, bloating, and burning.

Of course, coffee (which can be up to four small cups throughout the day ) should be consumed "without any milk or sugar," adds Rosero. The reason we rehydrate first with water is because during the night, breathing and sweating have caused a loss of fluids that must be replaced if we do not want it to negatively affect basic body functions, including brain function.

These are the benefits of coffee on the body

The most well-known ingredient in coffee, caffeine, has proven beneficial effects on concentration, alertness, and physical performance . The Mayo Clinic cites numerous scientific studies that have shown that coffee consumption reduces the risk of death from all causes. Among the most important are Parkinson's disease, type 2 diabetes , metabolic syndrome, chronic kidney disease, liver cancer, cirrhosis, and gallstones.

What's more, drinking coffee has been linked to improved mood and a lower risk of depression , as well as stroke. However, excessive consumption of this antioxidant-rich beverage (especially polyphenols) can neutralize the action of free radicals that cause premature aging.

Coffee also has anti-inflammatory effects that positively combat cognitive decline , while helping to prevent neurodegenerative diseases. It's important to always consume it in moderation, as excessive consumption can cause anxiety and headaches.