Much has been said about lemon water, from those who attribute almost magical properties to it to others who categorically state that it is good for absolutely nothing. Neither one extreme nor the other is completely true—no drink can work a miracle, but lemon water can provide our body with a number of benefits. Here’s what nutritionist and dietitian Dr. Montse Folcha, has to say about the heath drink.
Does lemon water help prevent abdominal bloating?
Most people who advocate drinking water with lemon (usually warm) usually do so in the morning and on an empty stomach to help purify the body and activate our metabolism. “Lemon not only tastes acidic but is an acid as well,” Dr. Folcha says. “It helps to alkalize, or detoxify, the body. In this way, it will help prevent and improve abdominal bloating.” In addition to this, he recommends certain spices with which we can combine our glass of lemon water to enhance this effect, such as fennel, basil, parsley, dill, cumin, or coriander. That said, it should be clarified that this does not mean that this drink achieves a flat stomach, but simply combat that feeling of swelling.
Can lemon water help improve digestion?
“Lemon water assists the stomach when it comes to secreting gastric juices,” Dr. Folcha says. “This leads to better digestion in general. It should be noted that anybody affected by stomach acidity should not try this, as it may increase the issue.”
Does lemon water relieve thirst?
“Lemon contains many organic acids, like citric acid, which stimulate salivation and relieve thirst, rather than simply drinking water,” Dr. Folcha says. Just be careful to always mix with water—pure lemon can damage the enamel of your teeth.
Does lemon water improve the appearance of the skin?
Skin loves vitamin C, which can be found in all citrus fruits, including lemons. Studies show that consuming vitamin C helps positively impact the appearance of our skin, and Dr. Folcha agrees. “Vitamin C is necessary for the proper functioning of blood vessels, for the health of bones, teeth and skin. It also helps with the formation of collagen, as well as enhancing the appearance of skin and proper wound healing.”
Is lemon water good for overall health?
On top of helping with digestion and skin, Dr. Folcha says drinking water with lemon regularly is just fantastic for overall wellness. “The drink can help to stimulate the immune system, giving you a better chance of fighting off infections,” they say. In addition, it’s great anytime you’re feeling sick—add in a little honey or ginger to help with a cold.