Lemon water has become a popular drink choice for many people, and for good reason. The combination of lemon and water offers a host of benefits for the body, from boosting the immune system to aiding in weight loss. But what exactly does lemon water do to the body, and how can we make the most of its benefits?
Here’s what lemon water does to your body
Immune system: Keeping you healthy
One of the most well-known benefits of lemon water is its ability to boost the immune system. Lemons are high in vitamin C, which is a powerful antioxidant that helps to protect the body against infection and disease. In addition, lemon water also contains other immune-boosting compounds such as flavonoids and limonoids, making it an excellent choice for maintaining overall health.
Digestion: Aiding in weight loss and detox
Another benefit of lemon water is its ability to aid in weight loss and detox. Lemon water is a natural diuretic, which means it can help to flush out toxins and excess water weight from the body. Additionally, the acidity of lemon juice can help to stimulate the production of bile, which is necessary for proper digestion and weight loss.
Skin: Brightening and clearing
Lemon water also offers benefits for the skin. The high levels of vitamin C in lemon juice can help to brighten the skin, reduce dark spots and blemishes, and promote collagen production, which can lead to firmer, more youthful-looking skin. Additionally, the acidity of lemon juice can help to exfoliate dead skin cells, leaving the skin feeling soft and smooth.
Preparing lemon water
To make the most of the benefits of lemon water, it’s important to prepare it correctly. One of the best ways to make lemon water is to squeeze the juice of half a lemon into a glass of warm water. It is recommended to use organic lemons if possible and drinking it first thing in the morning on an empty stomach. Avoid adding sugar or other sweeteners to your lemon water, as this can negate the benefits of the lemon.
Do’s and don’ts of consuming lemon water
Do’s:
- Use fresh lemons: Always use fresh lemons for making your lemon water. Fresh lemons will give you the most benefits and will taste better than pre-packaged lemon juice.
- Drink it first thing in the morning: Drinking lemon water on an empty stomach can help to detoxify your body and boost your immune system.
- Use warm water: Using warm water will help to open up the pores on your skin, allowing the lemon water to be more easily absorbed.
- Add honey to taste: If the taste of lemon water is too sour for you, you can add a small amount of honey to make it more palatable.
Don’ts:
- Use bottled lemon juice: Bottled lemon juice can contain preservatives and artificial ingredients that can negate the benefits of the lemon.
- Consume it in excess: Consuming too much lemon water can cause acid reflux, heartburn, and tooth erosion.
- Consume it before bedtime: Lemon water is acidic and can interfere with your sleep.
- Use metal containers: Lemon juice can react with metal containers, which can negatively affect the taste and nutritional value of the lemon water.
- Use hot water: Avoid using hot water, as it can make the lemon lose some of its nutrients and make it less beneficial for your body.
By following these do’s and don’ts, you can ensure that you are getting the most out of your lemon water and that you’re not causing any negative effects on your body.
