by Lemon water, with a pinch of honey, is a staple for many people. Indeed, lemon water has long been considered a simple yet powerful elixir for overall health and well-being, especially when consumed in the morning. Packed with vitamin C, antioxidants, and a refreshing flavor, this citrus-infused drink offers a host of health benefits. Let’s look at the science-based benefits of incorporating lemon water into your morning routine.
Health Benefits of Lemon Water
Health Shots contacted Divya Gopal, Consultant Dietitian and Nutritionist, Motherhood Hospitals, Banashankari, Bengaluru, to find out all the reasons why you should drink lemon water daily. Here are 11 potential health benefits of drinking lemon water daily:
1. Increases hydration
Proper hydration is crucial for overall well-being. Lemon water is a delicious way to increase your daily water intake. Staying hydrated aids digestion, promotes healthy skin, and helps your body function optimally.
2. Rich in Vitamin C
Lemons are a good source of vitamin C, an antioxidant known to support the immune system, help wound healing, promote collagen production, and contribute to better skin and connective tissue health. In fact, it also protects your cells from damage.
3. Aids Digestion
Lemon water stimulates the production of digestive juices, such as bile, which helps your digestive system break down food more efficiently. It can also relieve indigestion and bloating. Drinking a glass of warm lemon water in the morning is a common practice to restart the digestive process.
4. Weight Management
Lemon water can help with weight loss by promoting feelings of fullness, reducing hunger, and reducing calorie intake due to its dietary fiber and water content. Additionally, the citric acid in lemons may support proper digestion and metabolism, both of which are essential for maintaining a healthy weight.
5. Supports Heart Health
Lemon water can support heart health in several ways. Its potassium content may help lower blood pressure and its antioxidants may reduce the risk of heart disease by preventing oxidative damage to the arteries. Additionally, maintaining a healthy weight and staying hydrated are both essential for cardiovascular well-being.
6. Promotes glowing skin
The antioxidants in lemon water, especially vitamin C, can promote healthy, glowing skin. Vitamin C helps fight skin aging by reducing wrinkles and imperfections. Additionally, the hydration provided by lemon water can keep your skin hydrated and glowing.
7. Prevents Kidney Stones
The citric acid in lemons may help prevent kidney stone formation by increasing urinary citrate levels, which inhibit stone formation. However, excessive consumption of lemon juice could potentially contribute to kidney stones in some people due to its oxalate content.
8. Good for oral health
Lemon water can help maintain good oral health. Although lemon juice is acidic and can erode tooth enamel, diluting it in water reduces this risk. Lemon water can also fight bad breath and gingivitis thanks to its antimicrobial properties.
9. Strengthens immunity
As mentioned earlier, vitamin C is a powerful immune system booster. Regular consumption of lemon water can help your body defend itself against common illnesses like colds and flu. It also helps in wound healing and tissue repair.
10. Lemon water has alkalizing properties
Although lemons are acidic, they have an alkalizing effect on the body. This helps balance the body’s pH levels and creates an environment less conducive to disease. An alkaline body is believed to promote better health.
11. Stress reduction
The scent of lemon is known to have a calming effect and can reduce stress and anxiety levels. The ritual of preparing and sipping warm lemon water can be soothing, helping relieve tension and promoting relaxation.
When is the best time to drink lemon water?
The best time to drink lemon water is in the morning, on an empty stomach. This practice boosts your metabolism, aids digestion and provides a boost of hydration. But keep in mind that the citric acid in lemon can be harsh on tooth enamel, so it is a good practice to rinse your mouth with plain water after consuming lemon water .
Is it better to drink warm lemon water or cold lemon water?
Choosing between warm and cold lemon water largely depends on preference and purpose. Warm lemon water can be soothing and aid digestion due to its potential to stimulate digestive enzymes. On the other hand, cold lemon water is refreshing and hydrating, making it an appropriate choice in hot weather. Both offer the benefits of vitamin C and hydration, so the decision should be made by you.
