7 Nourishing Drinks To Have On An Empty Stomach

Most people assume that during long, hot summer days, drinking plain water is the only way to stay hydrated and healthy. And yet, there are certain drinks that are beneficial when consumed on an empty stomach and can hydrate you for a great start to the day too. Drinking water first thing in the morning helps replenish the body's fluids and rejuvenate the metabolism after a long night. But water isn’t the only liquid one should have.

Amla juice is a concentrated form of vitamins and minerals that can help with cleansing and increase vitality. Waters infused with fenugreek, cumin and fennel seeds can also calm the stomach and relieve bloating or nausea. Digestion and weight management may be improved by adding apple cider vinegar to water. But it's important to be aware of personal tolerances and steer clear of sugary or caffeinated beverages, as these can lead to uncomfortable blood sugar rises. 

Here are some natural drinks you should be having on an empty stomach during hot summer days.

1. Methi Seed Water: 

Fenugreek seed or methi water has been used for a long time in India for its range of health benefits.  This drink helps with blood sugar regulation and improved digestion and fullness. Methi seed water boosts metabolism and helps control weight. Fenugreek is great for digestive health as well, as it relieves bloating, indigestion and also constipation. A study published in the journal Ayu in 2017 says that fenugreek seeds have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It may also help with reducing cholesterol, boosting immunity, and reducing inflammation.

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2. Saunf and Jeera Water: 

Fennel seeds and cumin are two spices that can be added to make water more beneficial for health.  Studies suggest that fennel and cumin both secrete hydrochloric acid, which partially helps in digestion. It also helps in dealing with digestion problems such as indigestion and bloating. In addition to this, saunf and jeera water have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties as per the study published in the Journal of Antioxidant (basel) in 2023 that are important for overall gut health and immunity strengthening. This water with infused flavours is an ideal companion to a wholesome lifestyle, increases nutrient absorption, and increases general wellness and health.

3. Apple Cider Vinegar: 

The claims of apple cider vinegar (ACV) providing multiple health benefits when used in a fasted state are well established as per a study mentioned in the Journal of Diebetes Research in 2022. It is because ACV contains acetic acid, which helps in digestion, causes weight loss through lowering insulin levels, provides a feeling of fullness, and improves blood sugar regulation. With ACV, when taken on an empty stomach, food is more easily absorbed by the body; this induces a reduction of inflammation, improves intestinal health and gives the body alkalinisation. If undiluted ACV is ingested, it could be potentially irritating to the throat or the enamel of the teeth; hence, it is important to dilute it.

4. Triphala Water: 

Triphala water is wildly popular for the health benefits that it provides. Its main ingredient is triphala powder, which is a combination of three types of fruits (hartaki, baheda, and amla). As per Ayurvedic recommendations, triphala powder is soaked in water overnight and taken on an empty stomach for better results. Triphala is extremely revered for its capacity to help in digestion, detoxication, and immunity. Because of that, drinking triphala water in the morning, as an additional part of a healthy lifestyle, can be a stimulant for digestion, regular bowel movements, and the improvement of the absorption of nutrients throughout the body.

5. Ginger and Lemon Juice Water: 

An empty stomach is perfect for drinking water with fresh ginger and lemon juice. Ginger is a source of digestive and anti-inflammatory agents that help with stomach upset and PMS bloating relief. Lemon water is perfect not only for restoring the balance of body’s systems but also for strengthening immunity because it is high in antioxidants and vitamin C. Ginger and lemon water can highly accelerate digestion and the absorption of nutrients, as per a study published in the Journal of Antioxidants (Basel) in 2020. This drink will increase metabolism and alkalise the body. 

6. Amla Juice: 

Because amla juice contains a lot of vitamin C, antioxidants, and other nutrients, it is good to drink it on an empty stomach, as it also clears the stomach and helps in digestion. Amla, sometimes referred to as Indian gooseberry, facilitates detoxification, improves digestion, and strengthens immunity. When amla juice is consumed on an empty stomach, its nutritional value is better absorbed, and its ability to promote general health is increased. Consuming amla juice regularly has been shown to strengthen hair, improve skin health, control blood sugar, and increase vitality and well-being.

7. Aloe Vera Juice: 

The intake of Aloe Vera juice on an empty stomach is generally recommended for good health. Aloe vera juice is characterised by its fullness of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants, and it also has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties to its advantage. When consumed on an empty stomach, it will make sure that the body absorbs all the nutrients and that health is maintained. It relaxes and enhances digestion by reducing bloating, indigestion and constipation, helps detoxification, boosts immune defence; and maintains a healthy body.