Eating is important for our health and for our well being. Sometimes we get so busy in our work that we forget to eat and grab anything we like. Little do we know that some items are specifically made to eat on an empty stomach.
Below is the list of 20 food items that aim to improve your digestion on an empty stomach to start your day on a good start:
1. Raisins
Raisins are basically dried grapes having a high concentration of calcium, iron, and potassium. You should soak the raisins overnight to increase the absorption of nutrients. As they are full of natural sugars, they boost the energy in the morning and keep you on your toes for the rest of the day. They help to regulate the level of blood sugar and curb the sweet cravings. They also neutralise the acids that have harmful effects on the body.
2. Apples
Apples are rich in Vitamin C and Vitamin B, as well as insoluble fibers. The fiber and water content in apples help up your stomach fast.
3. Cauliflower
While it is recommended not to eat green vegetables on an empty stomach, but broccoli’s cousin cauliflower is highly recommended. Cooked cauliflower helps to keep the stomach from being bubbly and causing unwanted gas.
4. Chia Seeds
Chia Seeds are filled with protein, fiber, antioxidants, calcium, and Omega-3 fatty acids. Soaking them overnight is the best way to consume them. These seeds have the ability to expand in the stomach and keep you fuller for a long period of time. This helps in weight loss. They develop a gelatinous coating when they are soaked which helps them to move swiftly into the digestive system.
5. Papaya
Consuming Papaya on an empty stomach is a good way to cleanse the body from toxins and to ensure smooth bowel movement. It is easily available around the year. They are known to lower bad cholesterol and prevent heart diseases. After eating papaya, you should wait for 45 minutes before having your breakfast.
6. Soaked Almonds
Almonds are a rich source of protein, manganese, Vitamin E, fiber, Omega-3, and Omega 6 fatty acids. If you consume it the wrong way, then you miss out the benefits it has to offer. Always soak them overnight and have it in the morning on an empty stomach.
7. Honey
Honey is a natural nutrient which is a rich source of amino acids, Vitamin B, and multiple minerals. Its consistency, texture, and antimicrobial properties prevent gastrointestinal disease processes, alleviate the symptoms of upper respiratory ailments, and boost the immune system.
8. Buckwheat
Buckwheat is considered a seed rather than a grain. It is a rich source of Vitamin B, minerals, iron, soluble and insoluble fiber, and protein. The seeds keep the gastrointestinal system healthy and help to maintain healthy cholesterol levels.
9. Cornmeal Porridge
Cornmeal Porridge is a good source of minerals, protein, and unsaturated fats which are healthy for the heart. This curbs hunger balances blood sugar levels and provides important nutrients while preventing obesity and cardiovascular diseases.
10. Amla Juice
Fresh Amla Juice should be consumed on an empty stomach after which you should avoid tea or coffee for at least 45 minutes. Amla is a rich source of Vitamin C and helps to boost the immunity. Ayurveda states that eating Amla on a regular basis adds longevity to your life. It helps in clearing the system and strengthening the digestive system. It also helps in maintaining healthy hair, clear skin, and good eyesight.
11. Vegetable Juice
If you don’t like to chew anything in the morning, then you should opt for healthy vegetables in the form of juice as the first meal on an empty stomach.
12. Bitter Ghee
Bitter Ghee is an Ayurveda preparation where desi ghee is infused with bitter herbs like manjistha, Neem, and many more. Bitter taste cools, cleanses, and helps in reducing the anti-microbial activity. It also helps in regulating blood sugar, cleanses and purifies the blood, and reduces inflammation. You should have one teaspoon every day with warm water and avoid eating anything for at least half an hour.
13. Wheat Germ
Wheat Germ is a miracle worker. Having 2 tablespoons of wheat germ replenishes the body with 15% of the recommended intake of Vitamin E and 10% of required folic acid. It also helps the digestive system.
14. Dates
Dates provide instant energy which is much needed to kick start your day. They contain soluble fibres’ which are essential for good digestive health as it draws water to the digestive tract. It also helps to relieve constipation. It is also rich in potassium which treats diarrhoea and upset stomachs.
15. Whole Grain Bread
Whole grain bread is made without yeast and are a good source of iron, magnesium, and selenium which prevents anaemia, and contributes to the body’s energy requirements while helping the immune system. The fibers maintain gastrointestinal regularity while regulating cholesterol levels and curbing hunger.
16. Oatmeal
Oatmeal is a healthy breakfast food which has essential minerals, fibers, and slow-burning carbohydrates which serve as the ideal fuel source for kick-starting the day. The fibers help in lowering bad cholesterol which regulates blood pressure.
17. Blueberries
Blueberries are rich in Vitamin A, Vitamin E, and Vitamin C. They contain antioxidant compounds that inhibit free radicals which contribute to the development of cancers, infections, degenerative diseases, and immature ageing.
18. Eggs
Eggs have a variety of health benefits whenever they are consumed. They are a perfect food to consume on an empty stomach as they make you feel longer. According to the studies, when eggs are eaten in the morning, the amount of daily calories decreases, and it also aids in fat reduction.
19. Watermelon
Watermelon constitutes about 90 percent of water and is full of electrolytes. This makes it gentle on the stomach. Having it as the first day in the morning will keep you hydrated and satiate your sugar cravings. It also contains high levels of lycopene which boosts eye health and heart.
20. Nuts
If you consume nuts for breakfast, then it normalises the pH in your stomach, and improves your digestive health.