Why Fresh Juices on an Empty Stomach Aren’t Always a Sweet Idea

Juicing has taken the wellness world by storm, with many people swearing by the benefits of drinking fresh juice first thing in the morning. The idea sounds great—kickstart your day with a nutrient-packed drink, right? While fresh juices, especially fruit-based ones, can be loaded with vitamins, they’re not necessarily the best choice for everyone. Drinking juice on an empty stomach can cause a rapid spike in blood sugar levels, which might not align with your health goals, especially if you’re mindful of managing your weight or blood sugar.

The issue lies primarily with fruit juices that are high in natural sugars like glucose and fructose. When consumed without any other food, these sugars hit your bloodstream quickly, creating an unnatural glucose spike. This can lead to a burst of energy followed by a crash, leaving you feeling hungrier sooner and potentially overeating later in the day. For those with conditions like insulin resistance or diabetes, these sugar spikes can be particularly problematic. Even if you don’t have a medical condition, the repeated glucose rollercoaster could make it harder to maintain a stable weight.

That doesn’t mean juicing is all bad—it just needs to be done thoughtfully! If you love the idea of juice in the morning, consider mixing in low-sugar vegetables like spinach or cucumber and pairing it with a source of protein or healthy fats, like a handful of nuts. Alternatively, you could enjoy juice later in the day as part of a balanced snack or meal. Remember, wellness trends are never one-size-fits-all. Listen to your body and find what works for you—it’s the key to making any health habit sustainable.