Drinking Coffee on an Empty Stomach
You may think that a morning cup of black coffee will help you become alert without the need for breakfast. However, this habit is secretly causing your stomach to cry for help. Without any food to act as a buffer, caffeine stimulates the release of stomach acid more than usual, which can lead to nausea, bloating, and discomfort.
Additionally, some studies suggest that drinking coffee on an empty stomach can impact your hormones, particularly cortisol, leading to increased stress and difficulty managing your energy throughout the day.
Solution: Start your morning with a light snack. It doesn’t have to be complicated. A slice of whole wheat bread, a few slices of banana, or a glass of milk is enough to protect your stomach before you drink your coffee.

Relying on Coffee for Energy
Coffee may help you feel alert temporarily, but if you’re feeling exhausted, caffeine is just a quick fix for a deeper issue. Your tired body needs rest, not continuous stimulation from multiple cups of coffee.
Using coffee as a “pick-me-up” when you’re feeling low can also make you feel nervous, distracted, shaky, or irritable—side effects that are often overlooked.
Solution: Establish a consistent sleep schedule and healthy habits. Get enough sleep, stay hydrated, and take short breaks to relax and recharge. Try turning off your phone for 15 minutes and focus on deep breathing to help your body recover instead of reaching for another cup of coffee.
“Caffeine cannot replace a healthy lifestyle. It is a supplement, not a primary source of energy,” says Dr. Tran Thi Huong, an endocrinologist.
Not Drinking Water with Coffee
Coffee makes you urinate more, which means your body loses water faster than usual. However, many people don’t pay attention to replenishing their fluids, leading to dry skin, chapped lips, and increased fatigue despite their coffee intake.
Solution: Don’t wait until you’re thirsty to drink water. Keep a small bottle of water next to your work desk, and remember to drink at least one glass of water for every cup of coffee.

Tips for Enjoying Coffee the Right Way
- Prioritize traditional drip coffee (phin coffee) or freshly ground coffee instead of instant coffee, which often contains more sugar, milk, and artificial flavors.
- Try replacing your coffee with black coffee diluted with ice to reduce calories while still enjoying your coffee.
- If you’re sensitive to caffeine, opt for decaf coffee to enjoy the flavor without disrupting your sleep.
In Conclusion
Coffee is more than just a beverage; it’s a ritual that kick-starts your day. When understood and used correctly, you can avoid the negative impacts and fully enjoy its flavor and benefits. Most importantly, you’ll stay alert in a gentle and healthy way.