To obtain the health benefits of drinking lemon water, experts recommend adding three-fourths of a cup of lemon juice to your water per day.
A glass of lemon water first thing in the morning is an age-old remedy.
- To get your recommended daily intake of vitamin C (75 and 90 mg for women and men, respectively), you may need to drink about three-fourths of a cup of pure lemon juice per day.
- Mix the juice with 250 to 350 mL of water.
- Another method is filling a one-liter bottle with room-temperature water, add about 4 slices of lemon and drink it throughout the day for better hydration results.
- You may add honey or slices of ginger or mint leaves for better taste.
While doctors recommend that the average male consume 3.7 L of water per day and the average female consume 2.7 L of water, some people may struggle to meet that goal. Adding lemon juice to water is a tastier alternative that can help you meet your water goal and vitamin C requirements.
What are the health benefits of including lemon water in your daily diet?
Drinking lemon water is one of the simplest and quickest ways to refresh yourself. Lemons contain numerous beauty and health benefits, including immune-boosting abilities. Lemon juice aids in digestion and gut health.
The following are some of the popular advantages of incorporating lemon water into your daily routine or diet:
- Lemon water aids in the maintenance of a healthy mineral balance in the body by replenishing nutrients that have been lost due to dehydration and sweating.
- According to research, lemon juice may help reduce acid reflux and heartburn.
- Lemon water is high in vitamin C, which strengthens the immune system. Warm lemon water, in addition to being an excellent way to prevent colds, can also help loosen congestion and shorten the duration of symptoms.
- According to studies, this simple beverage is low in calories and can help with weight loss, liver function, and digestion when combined with a healthy lifestyle. It reduces stress and inflammation and boosts energy, mood, and immunity. It also gives you pleasant breath and a healthy glow to your skin. Furthermore, lemon water is said to lower blood pressure and help prevent the risk of stroke.
- Lemon contains minerals, such as calcium, iron, selenium, and potassium, which are essential for overall health. Regular consumption of lemon water may help strengthen bones, promote oral health, and prevent anemia and kidney stones due to its citrate content.
- Lemon juice contains various antioxidants, minerals, and vitamins that boost brain and heart health.
Although the majority of the research is still in the observational stage, starting your day with a glass of water containing this citrus fruit is not a bad idea.
Are there any side effects of drinking lemon water daily?
While lemon water is generally considered safe to consume, there are a few side effects to be aware of, such as:
- Lemon contains a high concentration of citric acid, which can erode tooth enamel, so drink it through a straw and follow it up with rinsing your mouth.
- Drinking lemon water in large quantities can cause a burning sensation in your stomach and aggravate the symptoms of acid reflux or heartburn.
- It has been reported that drinking lemon water makes people urinate frequently due to its diuretic properties.
- Drinking too much lemon water each can lead to vitamin C toxicity, although it is unlikely to be harmful.
Drinking lemon water is a simple habit that can provide long-term health benefits. More research, however, is required to establish these benefits. Therefore, consume it with caution and in moderation.
References
Cleveland Clinic. 7 Reasons to Start Your Day with Lemon Water. https://health.clevelandclinic.org/7-reasons-to-start-your-day-with-lemon-water-infographic/
Diffley J. 4 Surprising Benefits of Drinking Lemon Water. Diffley. https://selecthealth.org/blog/2017/04/4-surprising-benefits-of-drinking-lemon-water
LifeQuest Nursing Center. 7 Benefits of Starting your Day with Lemon Water. https://www.lifequestnursinghome.org/2015/04/7-benefits-of-starting-your-day-with-lemon-water/
