# Health impacts of common beverage consumption

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/health-impacts-of-common-beverage-consumption
> Updated: 2026-10-23T13:50:47.000Z. Sources: 7. Developments: 3.

Health discussions have focused on how certain common beverages impact digestive health and physiological stress. Coffee consumption can stimulate stomach acid and intestinal motility, potentially causing heartburn, bloating, or diarrhea. The addition of milk can exacerbate these issues for those with lactose intolerance, with the severity often depending on the volume of milk used. 

Caffeine is noted for its ability to increase cortisol, the hormone associated with the stress response. This effect may be particularly pronounced in the morning when natural cortisol levels are already rising. Symptoms such as nervousness, rapid heartbeat, and insomnia may occur. To mitigate these effects, experts suggest delaying the first cup of coffee or switching to decaffeinated options.

Consuming beverages on an empty stomach can exacerbate gastrointestinal issues. While coffee may not directly damage the stomach lining due to its protective mucus layer, it can increase gastric acid production and relax the esophageal sphincter, potentially causing gastroesophageal reflux. For individuals with irritable bowel syndrome, caffeine absorption may be faster without food, potentially triggering cramps or diarrhea.

Other beverages also present risks: citrus juices contain natural acids that can irritate the stomach lining or exacerbate symptoms for those with ulcers, and carbonated drinks may cause bloating or chest burn by expanding in the stomach. Regarding physical performance, caffeine can mask fatigue during short workouts by blocking adenosine receptors, but it cannot replace carbohydrates during endurance activities lasting over an hour, where it may lead to an energy crash.

## Timeline

### 2026-10-23: Effects of consuming coffee on empty stomachs and physical performance

Coffee can increase stomach acidity and cause reflux when consumed on an empty stomach. While caffeine masks fatigue during exercise, it does not provide the carbohydrate fuel necessary for long workouts.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/effects-of-consuming-coffee-on-empty-stomachs-and-physical-performance

### 2026-10-10: Common beverages may cause digestive issues when consumed on an empty stomach

Health reports warn that drinking coffee, citrus juices, and carbonated beverages on an empty stomach can cause acid reflux, bloating, and nausea by irritating the stomach lining.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/common-beverages-may-cause-digestive-issues-when-consumed-on-an-empty-stomach

### 2026-09-28: Health impacts of coffee consumption on digestion and stress

Coffee consumption affects health by stimulating stomach acid and increasing cortisol levels, which can lead to digestive issues like bloating and increased physiological stress.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/health-impacts-of-coffee-consumption-on-digestion-and-stress

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Cite as: Health impacts of common beverage consumption. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/health-impacts-of-common-beverage-consumption