Gastrointestinal Issues and Ulcers The acid in lemons can harm the stomach and intestinal linings, leading to ulcers. If you are already prone to ulcers, it's best to avoid drinking lemon water daily.
The acid in lemons may be a problem for teeth. Lemons contain citric acid, and too much acid can wear away tooth enamel. If you regularly consume lemon water, consider drinking it with a straw. For some people, consuming an acidic beverage on an empty stomach first thing in the morning may lead to GI discomfort.
A potential drawback is that the citric acid in lemon juice could erode the enamel on your teeth. To prevent damage make sure the water is lukewarm, not steaming hot. You can also drink through a straw so it bypasses your teeth, and rinse your mouth with water immediately after drinking.
Do not ever drink grapefruit, orange, lemon juice along with medications as they are rich in flavonoid compounds that can affect metabolism and can in turn normal dose of a drug into a toxic overdose. Juices may also prevent drugs from getting absorbed into the blood completely.
Drinking warm lemon water is good for you because it can help get your digestive system get moving in the morning without overloading it. Plus, efficient digestion reduces heartburn and constipation, so you won't have to worry about the acid in lemons giving you heartburn.
Lemon water boosts liver health and leads to production of bile juice, which is essential for a healthy digestion. Apart from that, the amalgamation of warm water and lemon helps in cleaning the system and the presence of Pectin, a soluble fiber in lemon helps in improving gut health.
How much lemon water should you drink? Stephens recommends using the juice from two to three lemons (about four to six tablespoons) throughout the day, and drinking one or two glasses of lemon water with meals, and one glass in between meals. But don't necessarily add lemon to every glass of water you drink.
It can aggravate stomach problems and heartburn
Therefore, you should consult a doctor before drinking lemon water if you experience any symptoms. People with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) should avoid excess intake of lemon juice.
Lemon drink contains traces of several minerals that may be beneficial in lowering blood pressure. Calcium and potassium both can lower blood pressure in those suffering from hypertension. A study suggests that lemon water can help bring the number to the normal range immediately.
Some statin drugs to lower cholesterol, such as Zocor (simvastatin) and Lipitor (atorvastatin). Some drugs that treat high blood pressure, such as Procardia and Adalat CC (both nifedipine). Some organ-transplant rejection drugs, such as Neoral and Sandimmune capsule or oral solution (both cyclosporine).
Thanks to their naturally high vitamin C levels, lemons are also beneficial in helping to lower blood cholesterol levels. Mixing the juice of two to three lemons in water each day can be enough to lower your low-density lipoprotein (also known as 'bad' cholesterol) and lower the risk of heart disease.
Lemon Water
Many citrus fruits, including lemon, can be added to water to help stimulate and flush out the liver. To help improve liver function, enjoy 4-6 tablespoons of lemon juice mixed with water each day.
Lemon water has several health benefits thanks to its high vitamin C concentration, flavonoid content, and acidity. Both flavonoids and vitamin C are strong antioxidants and have anti-inflammatory effects, therefore they may protect cells from damage and reduce inflammation in the body.
Drink it fairly quickly, and wait at least a half hour before eating to reap the most benefits.
The primary risk of drinking hot water is one of being burned. Water that feels pleasantly warm on the tip of a finger may still burn the tongue or throat. A person should avoid consuming water that is near boiling temperature, and they should always test a small sip before taking a gulp.
No evidence suggests drinking lemon water can harm the kidneys. Lemon water may have some health benefits, as it is a good source of vitamin C and may help boost the immune system.
The top drinks for lowering blood pressure include water, fruit juices (pomegranate, prune, cranberry, cherry), vegetable juice (tomato, raw beet), tea (black, green), and skim milk.
Lemon juice keeps the blood vessels flexible and free from cholesterol buildup. It also contains high level of potassium, which is essential for the regulation of heartbeat. Magnesium helps with heart regulation as well, and it too is found in lemon juice.
Mixing milk with sour and citrus fruits or ingredients is a strict “No'' this is because the presence of vitamin C and citric acid in sour foods like orange and lemon when combined with milk can coagulate and lead to acid reflux, heartburn, upset stomach and allergies, chest congestion and cold cough to name a few.
Potential Risks of Lemons and Lemon Juice
Some people can have headaches or gastrointestinal distress. There have been cases of dental erosion in people who drink lemon juice in large amounts. The natural acids found in lemon juice can erode dental enamel if you drink too much of it, too often.
Lemon water is most effective if consumed first thing in the morning. It is recommended to add lemon juice to warm water because it helps extract vitamin C and polyphenols from the lemon and its peel. Also, how much lemon water you drink daily is important.
Lemons contain vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant, and are a source of plant compounds called flavonoids, which have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.
How long does it take to get the results? Results such as improvement in digestion and higher energy levels can be seen within one week of regular consumption of warm lemon water.