Meghan Stoops, RDMany restaurants consider a lemon wedge standard practice to identify patrons drinking plain water over light sodas. But what if I told you that a slice of lemon may provide several science-backed health benefits?
This bright yellow citrus fruit is not known to be enjoyed by many on its own due to its tart flavor yet, it compliments many foods and beverages well, including plain old water. Although it may seem miniscule, slicing up a wedge of lemon to add to your water throughout the day is well worth adding to your routine.
Still not sold on the idea? Check out the top 7 reasons why adding lemon to your water could be the easiest way to boost your health.
7 Benefits of Drinking Lemon Water
1. Boost Hydration
Adequate hydration is critical for overall health but, many people fall short of their water intake. Water is just not as enticing to the taste buds as other beverages. Adding a wedge of lemon or a few drops of lemon juice can help spice up that plain drink and encourage you to guzzle down a bit more each day.
Additionally, lemons contain natural sources of certain electrolytes, such as potassium, which can help to boost hydration levels and maintain proper fluid balance in the body. So, skip the sugary sports drinks and opt for a tall glass of lemon water instead [1].
2. Cut Down on Colds
Cold season is coming and there is nothing worse than being struck by the bug. Drinking lemon-infused water may be able to help you cut down on how frequently you fall ill with the common cold.
Lemons are rich in antioxidants and essential vitamins for optimal immune function, such as vitamin C. In fact, juice from an average-sized lemon can provide over 20% of the DV for vitamin C [2].
Vitamin C also acts as an antioxidant, another essential compound for a hearty immune system. Antioxidants help to protect our body’s cells from damaging free radicals [3].
3. May Help to Prevent Kidney Stones
Consuming lemon water may help those who are prone to developing kidney stones. These painful deposits can accumulate in your kidneys which can occur in those who are deficient in urinary citrate. Additionally, lemon water also helps to avoid dehydration which can result in an increased risk in developing kidney stones [4].
4. Improve Digestion
Enjoying a glass of lemon water before a meal may help to improve digestion. Lemons are rich in citric acid which can help to boost gastric acid secretions in your stomach to break down and digest food. It may also help your body to move food more efficiently through your digestive tract, a process known as peristalsis [5, 6].
5. Enjoy a Radiant Complexion
Starting your day off with lemon water may also be a great addition to your beauty routine. Lemons are rich in vitamin C, which is an essential nutrient in the formation of collagen.
Collagen is a protein found in your connective tissue and skin. As we age, our body makes less collagen which can result in dry, textured, and wrinkled skin. Adding more vitamin C-rich foods, such as lemons, can boost collagen production and help reduce the appearance of fine lines and aging [7, 8].
6. Cut Down on a Few Pant Sizes
Adding a burst of lemon flavor to your water can help you cut out the sugary drinks that often cause us to pack on the pounds. Not to mention, if we are drinking more water than we are less likely to snack. Therefore, making water more enjoyable with a little lemon wedge could lead to some positive changes on the scale.
7. Improve Blood Sugar Levels
While lemon water itself doesn’t improve blood sugar levels, it is a great alternative to sugar-sweetened beverages. Swapping out sodas, energy drinks, sugary coffees, sports drinks, and other sugar-laden beverages with lemon water can help support a healthy blood sugar response.
Bottom Line
If you enjoy the flavor of lemons, slice up a wedge and add it to your water. It’s one of the easiest, most inexpensive ways to boost your overall health. Not to mention, it creates a refreshing, exciting take on plain old water.
