According to Nutritionist Pooja Singh at Sharda Care-Health City - Greater Noida (India), drinking carrot juice on an empty stomach can bring some health benefits, but also has some potential unwanted effects depending on each person's constitution and health status.
Benefits of drinking carrot juice on an empty stomach
Boost vitamins and minerals: Carrots are a rich source of vitamin A in the form of beta-carotene, a powerful antioxidant. When you drink carrot juice in the morning on an empty stomach, your body can quickly absorb these nutrients, supporting eye, skin, and immune health.
Enhanced nutrient absorption: When the stomach is empty, the body can absorb nutrients from carrot juice more effectively. Vitamin A, beta-carotene and minerals in carrots will be fully utilized by the body.
Aids digestion: Carrot juice helps balance the pH level in the stomach, soothes and stimulates digestive secretions. This helps the stomach function better throughout the day.
Improves skin: Vitamin A and antioxidants in carrots help brighten skin, restore cells and fight free radicals. Drinking on an empty stomach enhances this effect.
Weight loss: Carrot juice is low in calories but high in fiber, which helps you feel full longer and reduces mid-morning cravings. This can help with weight control.
Good for the eyes: Beta-carotene, when converted into vitamin A, helps protect eye health, improve vision and reduce the risk of eye diseases such as macular degeneration.
Potential risks of drinking carrot juice on an empty stomach
Stomach irritation: Drinking carrot juice on an empty stomach can cause some stomach problems, especially if you have stomach acid problems or are prone to reflux. Carrots can stimulate the production of acid in the stomach, leading to feelings of fullness or indigestion.
Increased blood sugar levels: Carrot juice is rich in vitamins and minerals, but it also contains a certain amount of natural sugar (carbohydrate). When you drink carrot juice on an empty stomach, this sugar can cause a rapid increase in blood sugar levels, which is not ideal for people with diabetes or insulin resistance.
Side effects of excess vitamin A: Carrots are rich in beta-carotene, and although the body will convert beta-carotene into vitamin A when needed, consuming too much over a long period of time can lead to a condition called carotenemia (yellowing of the skin due to excess beta-carotene). This is harmless, but can be a cosmetic concern.
Advice
If you want to reap the benefits of carrot juice without the side effects, drink it on an empty stomach or pair it with a light protein source like chia seeds or yogurt to reduce the impact on your stomach and keep your blood sugar levels stable, says nutritionist Pooja Singh.
While the benefits of carrot juice are clear, as with any food and eating habit, moderation and balance are key to achieving the best results.
