Drinking lemon water in the morning is the latest trend to capture the attention of the healthy crowd. There is more than a ‘cool-ness’ to lemon water’s newfound popularity; in addition to its refreshing effect, drinking water infused with lemon has a host of health benefits including boosting your immune system, aiding digestion, promoting healthy weight loss, and improving your skin.
10 reasons to drink lemon water in the morning
1It boosts your immune system
Lemons are packed with citrus flavonoids and also vitamin C, which is a powerful antioxidant that helps improve the function of your immune system. Vitamin C is also effective in combating the common cold and can even help to reduce the severity and duration of cold symptoms.
2Reduces a fatty liver
Drinking lemon water in the morning helps to prevent Hepatic Steatosis, commonly known as Fatty Liver Disease. This drink improves the efficient dissolution of fat in the liver.
3Helps to control your weight
Lemon water does not directly cut weight but it can be a strong catalyst alongside other weight-cutting techniques to lose a few extra kilograms. This is because nutrients in lemon water stimulate lower blood sugars by reducing insulin resistance, a common reason many struggle to lose weight.
4Helps in managing diabetes
A study conducted in 2020 by Japanese scientists showed that consuming lemon juice suppressed blood sugar spikes after rice meals. The researchers came to the conclusion that having a beverage containing 30 g of lemon juice before a meal may reduce glycate stress, contributing to the prevention of hyperglycaemia (high blood sugar) and diabetes.
5Reduces high cholesterol
Lemons are natural detoxifiers that help cleanse your body of toxins and cholesterol by stimulating the production of bile in the liver.
Bile is an essential part of digestion and is responsible for breaking down fats in the small intestine. Bile is also made up of cholesterol and therefore can lead to adverse effects if not adequately circulated by the body; lemon juice helps empty the small intestine, thereby removing clogged bile and lowering overall cholesterol levels.
6Prevents kidney stones
People prone to kidney stones are usually low in citrate. Citrate in lemon juice can bind with and reduce oxalates, which are the main building source of kidney stones. To prevent kidney stones from occurring doctors recommend consuming 0.5-1 cup of lemon juice every day.
7Aids in digestion and cleansing
Warm lemon water in the morning helps to stimulate the digestive system, making it easier for your body to break down food and absorb nutrients. Lemon also contains fibre which promotes regular digestion and prevents constipation.
8Reduce anaemia
Lemon juice contains citric acid which has been shown to boost the absorption of iron. Citric acid helps to increase the production of hydrochloric acid in the body. This acid lowers pH levels in your stomach, thereby improving iron bioavailability.
9Gives you energy
The electrolytes in lemon help to regulate blood sugar levels, giving you sustained energy throughout the day without the crash that comes from caffeine or high sugar drinks.
10Improves skin health
The vitamin C in lemons helps to boost collagen production, which gives your skin its elasticity and firmness. In addition, lemon’s astringent properties help to tighten pores and give your skin a radiant glow.
Lemon water in the morning. Healthhack from Healthypedia
It is helpful to hear from real experiences. At Healthypedia we have our own editorial expert and longevity enthusiast Michael Freeman who shares his personal story of drinking lemon water.
Here my several healthhacks to make it happen and make it the most efficient way:
Rule 1. Drink your lemon water in the morning every day. Do it immediately after you wake up, and especially before any other drinks like coffee or tea.
Rule 2. Half a medium size lemon to squeeze in your glass is enough. I leave the second half for the next day.
Rule 3. Your lemons should be easily available. I put 3-4 lemons on a plate with other fruits on a very visible and easily accessible place in the kitchen. Lemons easily survive without fridge for 3-5 days and they are a bright reminder, so you do not forget.
Rule 4. I drink lemon water warm. Not cold. Not hot. Using kettle to warm but not boil water. This is personal preference.
Rule 5. I use this habit to drink big glass of water. I have bought big glasses (around 400ml) especially for this routine. It helps me fulfil the plan with less “attempts”. A standard glass is fine as well larger is better
What not to do while having lemon water
Sugar in your drink will worsen dehydration so avoid it at all costs! Sugar also significantly reduces Vitamin C absorption; if you sweeten your lemon water you will mainly consume sugar instead of Vitamin C.
If the sour taste is not for you, you can try adding a bit of mint, ginger, or honey to your glass.
Very hot water kills the nutrients in the lemon, especially Vitamin C, so don’t add juice or slices to the boiling hot liquid.
Let’s sum up lemon water
Drinking lemon water in the morning is a great way to keep your body healthy and hydrated. The best part is that these health benefits can be achieved without investing in expensive supplements or any drastic changes to your diet. It is time to give it a try and begin feeling the positive effects of lemon water today!
If you’re hungry for knowledge
Lemon water is essential for people on the ketogenic diet or otherwise fasting. If you want to learn why, watch this video by well-known health expert Dr. Eric Berg:
Nutrition
