If you’re drinking hot water with a squeeze of lemon juice every morning, thinking it is the magic potion for weight loss, then that’s a bubble we are sorry to burst for you in this particular article as you read on. But, if you’ve been struggling with your gut health, the timeless remedy of lemon water might be just what you need. This potent elixir cleanses the digestive system and helps eliminate toxins from the body. Lemons are rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, providing a boost to your immune system. They also aid in more efficient digestion. Let’s take a look at some benefits of lemon water.
4 benefits of lemon water — Lemon water is not a weight-loss miracle, but here’s why you should still sip it
1. Lemon water and weight loss
“Lemon shots and water do not directly help with weight loss, that’s a myth,” says Anupama Menon, a nutritionist and a food coach, “but it does better your gut health, which is very important for sustainable fat loss,” she adds. Shedding pounds often involves a multi-pronged approach. While no single drink is a guaranteed weight-loss solution, staying adequately hydrated is crucial. Studies have shown that simply drinking water can support weight management efforts. Lemon water offers a refreshing and flavourful way to increase your daily water intake. It might not directly supercharge your fat-burning abilities, but the boost in hydration can still be a valuable tool on your weight-loss journey.
2. Lemon water and detox
While “detox” is a buzzword in wellness circles, it originally referred to critical medical procedures for removing harmful toxins. Modern “detox programs” claim to eliminate vague toxins blamed for headaches and fatigue, but science doesn’t support these claims. The National Institute of Health (US-based) found no evidence that detox diets aid in weight loss or toxin removal, and some can even be dangerous. The good news is that your body has a built-in detox system: your liver and kidneys. Focus on healthy habits like balanced eating and exercise to support these natural processes. Skip the detox hype and trust in your body’s remarkable ability to care for itself.
3. Lemon water and digestion
According to Menon, lemon water with ginger aids digestion and reduces inflammation at any time of day. “Consuming it in the morning might be more beneficial, as the body absorbs nutrients best when you first wake up,” she notes. The acidity in lemons boosts the production of hydrochloric acid in the stomach, which is crucial for breaking down food.
But if you want to improve your gut health, then Menon suggests lemon amla shots are the best way to use lemon water for your gut. “Mix the juice of two lemons with the juice of two amlas. This powerful combination acts as a daily antioxidant and promotes better digestion and overall gut health,” she explains.
Lemons also stimulate the liver to produce bile, necessary for digesting fats. Menon recommends a mixture of juice from two lemons and two tablespoons of virgin olive oil as an effective way to eliminate excess bile. However, she advises limiting this remedy to no more than two to three times per year.
Additionally, the vitamin C and antioxidants have anti-inflammatory properties, potentially easing indigestion and bloating.
4. Is it better to drink lemon water cold, warm, or hot?
While warm beverages like tea, coffee, or even lemon water can stimulate your digestive system, there’s a catch with lemon water. Nutritionist Anupama Menon advises keeping it at room temperature or cold to preserve the heat-sensitive vitamin C. To stay hydrated, consider adding lemon to a reusable bottle filled with chilled water. Just be mindful of your teeth. The citric acid in lemons can erode enamel over time. If you’re a lemon water devotee, opt for a straw to minimise contact with your teeth.
