Can't I drink milk on an empty stomach

Drinking milk on an empty stomach is usually acceptable, but some people may experience gastrointestinal discomfort. Milk contains high-quality nutrients such as protein and calcium, which may affect absorption efficiency or stimulate gastric acid secretion when consumed on an empty stomach.

When fasting, there is a higher secretion of stomach acid, and proteins in milk can combine with stomach acid to form clots, which may increase digestive burden. People with lactose intolerance are more likely to experience bloating and diarrhea when drinking on an empty stomach, as lactose in milk needs to be broken down by lactase, resulting in insufficient enzyme activity on an empty stomach. Drinking a small amount on an empty stomach is generally not harmful for healthy individuals, but it is recommended to pair it with carbohydrates such as bread to slow down gastric emptying.

People with dairy allergies, gastritis patients, or those in the postoperative recovery period should avoid drinking on an empty stomach. This group of people have sensitive gastrointestinal mucosa, and milk may stimulate gastric acid secretion, leading to acid reflux and heartburn. Caution should be exercised during the acute phase of gastric ulcer. Although milk can temporarily neutralize stomach acid, its high calcium content can feedback stimulate more stomach acid secretion. Children and the elderly have weaker digestive function, and drinking on an empty stomach may cause indigestion.

When drinking milk, it is recommended to pair it with grains or bread, and the temperature should be warm to avoid being too cold and stimulating. Lactose intolerant individuals can choose low lactose or fermented dairy products. Pay attention to individual reactions in daily life, and adjust symptoms such as abdominal pain and diarrhea in a timely manner. Milk, as a nutritional supplement, needs to be combined with individual physical fitness and a reasonable diet to better absorb and utilize it.