Getting a new piercing can be an exciting experience. However, it’s important to take care of your body before, during and after the piercing process. One question that often comes up is whether you can get a piercing on an empty stomach. In this article, we’ll take a close look at the risks, recommendations and best practices for eating before a piercing.
The Risks of Getting a Piercing While Fasting
There are a few potential risks associated with getting a piercing on an empty stomach:
- Increased chance of feeling lightheaded or fainting – Eating before a piercing helps maintain proper blood sugar levels. Going too long without food can sometimes cause dizziness or fainting when getting pierced.
- Greater pain – Being well-fed and hydrated helps your body handle physical stress better. Getting pierced on an empty stomach may heighten pain levels.
- Delayed healing – Good nutrition provides your body with the resources it needs to recover from injury. An empty stomach could slow the healing process.
- Increased irritation – Hangry piercing experiences aren’t fun for anyone. Low blood sugar could make you more likely to feel cranky and irritable.
While everyone has different reactions, most professional piercers recommend avoiding fasts or long periods without food before getting pierced. The risks are generally higher the longer you go without eating.
Expert Recommendations for Eating Before Piercings
Most piercing experts agree you should have something to eat before getting pierced. Here are some of their top food recommendations:
- 2-3 hours before: Eat a full, balanced meal with protein, carbs and veggies. Allow time to digest before your appointment.
- 30-60 minutes before: Have a light snack like fruit, nuts or toast if hungry.
- Right before: Sip water to stay hydrated. Avoid caffeine or alcohol, which thin the blood.
- Morning piercings: Don’t skip breakfast! Wake up early to allow time to eat.
- Afternoon/evening piercings: Don’t go more than 4-5 hours without eating leading up to your appointment.
Following these recommendations helps ensure you have nutrients in your system and avoids low blood sugar during the piercing. Listening to your body and eating when hungry is also wise.
Best Practices for Eating Before Common Piercings
Eating guidelines can also vary based on the type and location of the piercing you want to get.
| Type of Piercing | Best Practices for Eating |
|---|---|
| Ear Cartilage | – Eat a full meal 1-2 hours before – Have a light snack 30 minutes before if needed |
| Ear Lobe | – Eat a meal 2-3 hours before – You can eat right before; low risk of feeling faint |
| Nose | – Eat a substantial meal 2-3 hours beforehand – Avoid heavy meals that could cause stuffiness or swelling |
| Navel | – Eat a meal 2-3 hours prior – Do not eat right before; increased fainting risk |
| Lip or Tongue | – Eat a full meal 2-3 hours before – Avoid spicy or messy foods that could irritate the piercing |
| Nipple | – Eat a healthy meal 2-3 hours beforehand – Light snack 1 hour before if hungry or lightheaded |
As shown, timing recommendations vary slightly depending on the piercing location. However, eating a light meal 1-3 hours before your appointment is a safe bet for most piercings.
What to Eat Before Getting Pierced
Focusing on nutritious, balanced meals before piercing appointments is ideal. Here are some healthy pre-piercing food choices:
- Proteins – Chicken, fish, beans, Greek yogurt
- Whole grains – Oatmeal, quinoa, brown rice
- Veggies – Broccoli, carrots, kale, spinach
- Fruits – Bananas, berries, apples, melons
- Healthy fats – Nuts, olive oil, avocado
Avoid heavy, greasy foods that take longer to digest. Stay hydrated with water instead of sugary or caffeinated drinks that can dehydrate you. It’s also wise to skip the alcohol, which thins your blood and impacts pain perception.
What If You Can’t Eat Before? Tips to Minimize Risk
Sometimes, unavoidable circumstances may prevent you from eating before a piercing. Here are tips to reduce risks if you can’t eat beforehand:
- – Consume a liquid meal replacement drink or protein shake.
- – Have a smoothie with protein powder and fruit for nutrients.
- – Bring a snack like nuts, crackers or a granola bar to eat right beforehand.
- – Arrive early and give yourself time to eat something at the studio if needed.
- – Reschedule if you feel extremely lightheaded or weak without food.
- – Communicate with your piercer so they can work to minimize fainting risks.
- – Stay well-hydrated with water since food isn’t available.
While it’s not recommended, you may be able to safely get pierced after limited food intake. Take precautions, listen to your body and communicate openly with your piercer.
The Bottom Line
Getting pierced on an empty stomach comes with increased risks of side effects like dizziness, heightened pain and delayed healing. Most piercing experts recommend eating a nutritious meal about 2-3 hours beforehand and avoiding long periods without food leading up to your appointment.
Exact timing and food suggestions can vary based on the piercing type and your own body. Stick to light, balanced meals before piercing, stay hydrated and speak up about any concerns. With some smart preparation, you can help make your piercing experience as comfortable and risk-free as possible.