Jakarta, ThedailyID — What you do in the morning can affect your mood and health throughout the day. Cardiologist Sanjay Bhoraj says he avoids five common habits before 9 AM.
Bhoraj explained that the heart works through a daily wake-up cycle. Cortisol levels rise, blood pressure increases and heart rate variability falls as the body becomes active.
An analysis also found a morning increase in heart attacks and sudden cardiac deaths. Therefore, Bhoraj says both food choices and emotional conditions in the morning matter.
Here are five habits he avoids before 9 AM:
- Drinking Sugary Coffee
Bhoraj does not start his day with sugary coffee. A flavored latte can contain 30 to 50 grams of sugar.
A rapid glucose spike can increase insulin levels and contribute to metabolic stress. It may also leave you hungry again within an hour.
- Eating Pastries for Breakfast
Croissants, muffins and danishes may seem like quick breakfast options. However, Bhoraj says they combine refined carbohydrates with saturated fat.
These foods also tend to contain little fiber or protein. As a result, they can cause a quick energy boost followed by a sharp drop.
- Replacing Pastries With Processed Meat
Avoiding pastries does not mean bacon, sausages and ham make better breakfast choices.
Bhoraj says processed meat contains high amounts of sodium and saturated fat. Some products also contain preservatives such as nitrates.
He recommends avoiding processed meat as an everyday breakfast option.
- Drinking Energy Drinks
Bhoraj also avoids energy drinks in the morning. These beverages often contain large amounts of caffeine and sugar.
They can also contain other stimulants that place additional demands on the heart. Energy drinks may raise heart rate and blood pressure.
For some people, this habit can also trigger an irregular heartbeat.
- Eating Nothing at All
Skipping breakfast is not necessarily harmful, according to Bhoraj. You can still stay hydrated, do light physical activity and start the day calmly.
However, he warns against starting the morning with coffee on an empty stomach while checking emails and taking medication without food.
According to Bhoraj, this combination can overstimulate the nervous system and cause major fluctuations in blood sugar.
