Lemon water is a common morning beverage with several health benefits. However, experts note that frequent or improper consumption of this drink can also lead to certain undesirable effects.

Rehydrates the body after a night's sleep

After many hours of sleep, the body loses water through breath and sweat. Drinking one glass of lemon water in the morning helps replenish essential fluids, supports circulation, regulates body temperature, transports nutrients, and maintains organ function.

According to Health, the greatest benefit of morning lemon water actually comes from adequate hydration. If adding a few lemon slices makes it easier to drink and helps you form a habit of consuming water right after waking up, then this is a beneficial health choice.

Drinking lemon water in the morning helps rehydrate the body after many hours of sleep. Photo: Bao Bao

Supplies vitamin C and antioxidants

Lemon is a natural source of vitamin C, an antioxidant that helps protect cells from free radical damage, supports the immune system, aids wound healing, and promotes collagen synthesis. According to Verywell Health, a medium-sized lemon provides approximately 30-40 mg of vitamin C, which is nearly half the recommended daily intake for adults. However, the amount of vitamin C in one glass of lemon water is not sufficient to replace eating a variety of green vegetables and fruits.

May support digestion

Drinking water immediately after waking also stimulates bowel movements, which is why some people find it easier to have a bowel movement in the morning. The citric acid in lemons can stimulate the secretion of digestive fluids, but there is no scientific evidence to show that lemon water improves digestion more effectively than plain water. The comfortable feeling after drinking lemon water in the morning is likely due to the body being adequately rehydrated after a long night.

Contributes to reducing kidney stone risk

Lemons contain citrate, a compound that can bind with calcium in urine, thereby limiting the formation of calcium stones, the most common type of kidney stone.

Supplementing citrate from lemons may offer certain benefits for individuals at risk of kidney stones. However, the amount of citrate in one glass of lemon water is quite low, so it cannot replace treatments or medications prescribed by a doctor.

Can harm tooth enamel

Despite its many nutrients, lemon is highly acidic. Frequent exposure to citric acid can erode tooth enamel over time, leading to tooth sensitivity and an increased risk of cavities. To minimize this effect, you should drink lemon water with a straw, avoid holding it in your mouth, rinse your mouth with plain water after drinking, and wait about 30-60 minutes before brushing your teeth.

May worsen reflux symptoms

For individuals with gastroesophageal reflux disease or frequent heartburn, lemon water can make symptoms more uncomfortable. If you experience increased chest burning, epigastric pain, or more frequent acid reflux after drinking lemon water, you should reduce the amount of lemon or switch to plain water.

For most healthy individuals, one glass of lemon water in the morning is a safe choice if not too much sugar or honey is added. Individuals with acid reflux, stomach ulcers, or sensitive tooth enamel should consume it in moderation and monitor their body's reactions.

Bao Bao (Compiled)