A glass of lemon water early in the morning is an "elixir" your body might be missing. It's time to explore why it's a popular drink among nutritionists and how it can help you achieve better physical and mental well-being.
Experts recommend incorporating lemon water into a daily routine. Kylie Bensley, a nutritionist and founder of Sulinu, and Laura Prada, a nutritionist and director of Slow Life House, both advocate for its regular consumption.
Boosts digestive health
Warm lemon water kickstarts morning digestion, helping to alleviate heartburn and bloating. It also stimulates the production of bile and gastric acid, which can prevent gas formation.
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A glass of lemon water early in the morning is an "elixir" your body might be missing. Photo: Bao Bao. |
Strengthens the immune system
Lemon water's vitamin C strengthens the immune system, a benefit further enhanced by its vitamin B, calcium, iron, magnesium, potassium, and other enzymes. A 2014 study in the Journal of Nutrition and Metabolism also noted that lemons contain minerals that help lower blood pressure, improving overall health.
Combats aging
The high antioxidant content in lemons helps prevent damage from free radicals. A 2021 study published in Frontiers found that lemon peel reduces oxidative stress in skin cells and boosts collagen production.
Rehydrates the body
Starting the day with a glass of lemon water helps maintain hydration goals.
Reduces anxiety
A 2023 study published in BMC revealed that orthopedic surgery patients using lemon as aromatherapy experienced reduced anxiety pre-procedure. Inhaling lemon water before drinking it can calm your mind and senses early in the morning.
Aids weight management
Polyphenols in lemons may prevent diet-induced obesity, according to a 2008 study in the Journal of Clinical Biochemistry and Nutrition.
Prevents kidney stones
Kidney stones affect 1 in 10 men and 1 in 14 women in the US, as reported by a 2024 American Kidney Fund study. Heather Viola, an assistant professor of general internal medicine at Mount Sinai, explained that lemon water is rich in citrate. This compound binds to calcium in urine, reducing the formation of crystals that can develop into stones. Consequently, drinking lemon water increases urine volume and dilutes stone-forming substances.
While beneficial, consuming lemon water requires certain precautions. Drinking it on an empty stomach can be unhealthy due to its acidity, potentially exacerbating pre-existing digestive issues. Daily consumption can also erode tooth enamel, making it advisable to drink with a straw. Warm lemon water is preferred because, "at body temperature, it will be absorbed much faster as the body doesn't need to lower its temperature for digestion."
To prepare, choose a lemon with a thin peel, wash it thoroughly, and slice it into rounds. Add them to a glass of warm water each morning, or combine with minced ginger or rosemary.
My Y (According to Times of India)
