Fortis gastroenterologist warns against having ‘chole bhature, kachori' first thing in the morning: ‘Works like acid…’

Starting your day right is more than breakfast. Gastroenterologist Dr Shubham Vatsya explains which morning foods can upset your gut and digestion.
Starting your day on the right note isn’t just about coffee or breakfast choices, it’s also about what not to eat. Certain foods on an empty stomach can irritate your digestive system, spike acidity, or even affect your metabolism. Dr Shubham Vatsya, gastroenterologist and hepatologist, Fortis Hospital, Vasant Kunj, Delhi, shares in his Instagram post three foods you should never have first thing in the morning and why they can do more harm than good. (Also read: AIIMS gastroenterologist shares how he lost 15 kgs, reversed fatty liver with 3 simple gut health changes )
“These three food items should never be eaten on an empty stomach, or else your gut health can be affected,” Dr Vatsya warns.
1. Citrus fruits
“Citrus fruits like oranges or lemons are healthy, but when consumed on an empty stomach, their high acidity can irritate your gut lining,” he explains.
2. Black coffee
“Having black coffee first thing in the morning acts like an acid shock for your digestive system,” says Dr Vatsya. “It can lead to bloating, irritation, and energy crashes, making it a risky choice on an empty stomach.”
3. Heavy, fried foods
Foods like chole bhature, misal pav, pav bhaji, and kachori may be delicious, but Dr Vatsya advises against eating them first thing in the morning. “These heavy foods can overwhelm your digestive system and put unnecessary stress on your gut,” he adds.
Safer alternatives
For a healthier start, Dr Vatsya suggests lighter options, “Breakfast items like bread omelette, idli-sambar, dosa-sambar, bananas, apples, and boiled eggs are safer choices. You can also start your day with soaked nuts, oats, or a banana to support gut health.”
Note to readers: This report is based on user-generated content from social media. HT.com has not independently verified the claims and does not endorse them.
This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice.
ABOUT THE AUTHORAkanksha AgnihotriAkanksha Agnihotri is a lifestyle journalist with over 3 years of experience. She is a psychology graduate and holds a postgraduate diploma in Radio and Television Journalism from the Indian Institute of Mass Communication, Delhi, where she graduated as a gold medalist. Originally from Bhopal, the beautiful capital of Madhya Pradesh, she draws inspiration from the city’s rich cultural heritage and layered storytelling traditions that subtly shape her narrative voice. She writes extensively about fashion, beauty, health, relationships, culture, and food, exploring everything from trending styles and runway moments to wellness routines and mindful living. Passionate about meaningful and candid conversations, she enjoys interviewing celebrities, doctors, designers, and film personalities, diving into discussions on fitness, beauty, mental health, and everything fun in between. With a keen eye for trends and a thoughtful understanding of human behaviour, she brings depth, sensitivity, and authenticity to her stories, ensuring they resonate with a wide and diverse audience. When she’s not working, you’ll usually find her lost in a book, planning her next mountain trek, or mapping out spontaneous travel escapes. She loves discovering new authors, revisiting old favourites, and spending quiet afternoons in museums soaking in art, history, and culture. An avid bird-watching enthusiast, she finds joy in early morning walks, spotting rare birds, and reconnecting with nature. Whether sipping coffee while journaling her thoughts or exploring hidden corners of a new city, she constantly seeks inspiration in everyday moments that often turn into compelling story ideas.Read More
Catch your daily dose of Fashion, Taylor Swift, Health, Festivals, Travel, Relationship, Recipe and all the other Latest Lifestyle News on Hindustan Times Website and APPs.

E-Paper


