The benefits of drinking lemon water

Lemon is a rich source of vitamin C being a citrus fruit. Drinking it with water on an empty stomach regularly is believed to have several benefits for the body. Here are some benefits listed.

1. Lemon helps in digestion and cleansing- Digestion is considered as the basic foundation of our health. Whenever the digestive system is functioning optimally our body can absorb nutrients efficiently and expel toxins effectively. The lemon water stimulates the digestive system. The citric acid in lemon enhances the secretion of digestive juices, which aid in breaking down the food more efficiently. This also helps in preventing bloating and heartburn. Lemon water acts as a gentle diuretic and reduces water retention. It helps the liver to secrete bile juice, which is essential for digestion and flushes out toxins from the body.
2. Freshen up your breath- A bright, confident smile with fresh breath is something everyone wants. Drinking lemon water improves your oral health as the citric acid in lemon fights with the bad bacteria present in the mouth. Lemon has a refreshing citrus scent, which can overcome the bad odor of the mouth. A dry mouth is the breeding ground for bad bacteria in the mouth leading to all oral health issues. The citric acid in lemon juice helps in producing saliva ensuring the mouth stays wet and bad breath-free throughout the day.
3. Weight management- Drinking lemon water first thing in the morning gives a kick start to your metabolism. This helps in burning the fat throughout the day. The citric acid of the lemon helps in burning more and more calories all day long. Drinking lemon water before meals is a flavourful way of attaining satiety by reducing overall calorie intake. It’s a great way to curb appetite leading to eating smaller portion sizes. The refreshing tart taste of lemon water reduces sweet cravings, making one eat healthier options.
4. Boost immunity- Lemon water is rich in vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant that strengthens the immune system. These antioxidants present in lemon water neutralize the free radicals and increase the production of white blood cells which fight against many diseases like cold and flu. By reducing the oxidative stress it protects the immune cells from damage and enhances their ability to function efficiently. The Vitamin C from lemon water also helps the body to heal naturally, ensuring you stay healthy and vibrant, especially when the weather changes. Even though lemon water is acidic, when metabolized, it alkalizes in the body. The alkaline pH strengthens the immune system as many diseases thrive in acidic conditions. Inflammation is a common response to injury and infection. Lemon water reduces inflammation which can weaken the immune system.
5. Improves skin quality- Skin is a reflection of our internal health. If we nourish our body from the inside, it shows from the outside. The Vitamin C in lemon water is crucial for collagen production which is essential for maintaining skin elasticity and preventing wrinkles. Regularly drinking lemon water helps reduce skin blemishes and acne due to its detoxifying properties. It also helps in lightening age spots and scars over time. Thus by hydrating with lemon water, the skin is getting the needed hydration and nutrients to stay young and supple.
6. Improves mood and energy level- The fragrance of lemon is known for its calming and uplifting effects, helping to alleviate anxiety, stress, and feelings of depression, thereby fostering a more positive state of mind. Often, dehydration leads to fatigue and a low mood. Drinking lemon water encourages increased fluid intake, ensuring your body stays well-hydrated, which is vital for sustaining energy and avoiding mood fluctuations. Lemons provide essential electrolytes such as potassium, calcium, and magnesium, which are important for maintaining electrolyte balance in the body. This balance is crucial for effective muscle function, energy production, and stable mood. Vitamin C is important for producing neurotransmitters like serotonin, which are vital for mood and energy regulation.
7. Good for heart health- Heart health is very important for our well-being. The vitamin C and antioxidants in lemon water help in reducing inflammation and protecting the blood vessels from oxidative damage. Potassium in lemon helps in regulating blood pressure. Thus, lemon water is essential to nourish the heart and support its vital functioning.

• Triparna