The 9 worst things to eat when you're starving.

Everyone has their own morning rituals to cheer the body up after sleep. Apart from exercising and taking hot showers, the first food you put into your hungry tummy can define the rest of the day. That's why it's essential to know which foods are not meant to be eaten on an empty stomach.

Well, at least we have bananas. This fruit is often considered a great choice for a lazy breakfast, but that's not entirely true. No matter how fresh and healthy they are, raw bananas can bring chaos to your stomach if eaten at the wrong time. They are rich in magnesium, which may lead to digestive issues and can also cause blood pressure fluctuations. However, if you're still a dedicated banana eater, try mixing it with oatmeal as it creates a lining in the stomach that prevents irritation caused by the naturally produced hydrochloric acid. Bananas also go well with other healthy foods like porridge, peanut butter, dried fruits, or nuts for an early morning meal.

What could be better than a fresh, crispy croissant for breakfast? Many things, actually. Cakes, pastries, pizza, and other bakery items usually contain yeast, which can harm the stomach lining when eaten on an empty stomach and may cause flatulence. Instead, you can replace these with sourdough whole grain bread, which is one of the best food choices right after waking up. It's rich in carbohydrates, important for a balanced diet, and helps keep your gut bacteria happy.

While a glass of fresh citrus juice may look Instagram-friendly on a fancy breakfast tray, it may not be the best choice for your stomach when consumed on an empty stomach. Fruit smoothies and juices are rich in fructose, which can shock and burden your pancreas and liver when taken in the morning. It's better to consume citrus fruits after eating something else to avoid harm to the body. The high content of fructose and fiber can slow down your metabolism during the day, so it's recommended not to eat more than two oranges per day. If you enjoy morning fruits, opt for papaya or watermelon instead, as they can help flush toxins out of your body and make you feel lighter.

Fresh salads are generally healthy, but it's best to avoid eating raw vegetables on an empty stomach. After hours of fasting, your tummy may find it challenging to digest the coarse fibers, leading to pain and discomfort. Save your salad for later hours.

Let's talk about the hot water in the morning trend. While many variations are suggested, a glass of pure lukewarm water in the morning is a great way to inspire your bowel movement and prepare your digestive system for the day. On the other hand, cold beverages are not advised on an empty stomach as they can damage the mucous membrane, causing discomfort and an upset stomach.

When it comes to morning coffee, the rule is simple: never drink it on an empty stomach. Coffee stimulates the secretion of hydrochloric acid, which is harmful to your digestive system and can lead to gastritis and other health issues in the long term. Experts recommend drinking coffee an hour after waking up and eating something beforehand.

If you enjoy yogurt with granola or other fermented milk products for breakfast, make sure to eat something safe before consuming them. Waiting about an hour after waking up is ideal to prevent damage to the good bacteria in your stomach.

Processed sugar is one of the worst breakfast choices, so it's best to avoid high-sugar foods and drinks on an empty stomach. However, a reasonable amount of high-quality chocolate after breakfast can be beneficial for your well-being and mood as it stimulates the production of hormones responsible for positive feelings. Opt for 70% dark chocolate for a healthier choice.

Spicy foods, like chili with jalapenos, should be avoided on an empty stomach as they can irritate the vulnerable lining and cause discomfort. Save spicy dishes for dinner instead.

Fortunately, there are plenty of safe and healthy breakfast options to improve the functioning of your body. Nuts are rich in vitamins, minerals, proteins, and good omega-3 fatty acids, providing a nutritious and energizing start to the day. Eggs can give a feeling of fullness without heaviness and are rich in proteins while being low in calories. Wheat germs, chia seeds, and honey also offer various health benefits when consumed in the morning.

Remember to moderate your intake and consider any allergies or sensitivities you might have when choosing your breakfast.