Lemon water is a refreshing drink that can provide vitamin C and help someone maintain hydration. However, lemon water is unlikely to add any significant nutritional benefits.
Lemon water is a popular home remedy, with some online sources claiming it can improve digestion, detox the body, or promote weight loss.
People can make lemon water by mixing lemon juice with water. The ideal amount of lemon juice depends on personal preference. People may drink it cold or hot.
Lemon water has become a popular morning drink, with some people using it as a refreshing pick-me-up due to claims that it can boost energy levels and metabolism.
Lemons are a rich source of vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant. Like other citrus fruits — including oranges, grapefruit, and limes — lemons are rich in flavonoids. These are compounds that help boost health and fight disease.
Aside from that, lemons contain few nutrients. Lemon water contains very little protein, fat, or carbohydrate, and it has only trace amounts of other vitamins and minerals, including potassium, folate, and some B vitamins.
According to the United States Department for Agriculture database, lemon water with one 48-gram (g) squeezed lemon contains the following nutrients, among others:
Although a single glass does not seem to provide many nutrients, lemon water is a healthful, low calorie, and low-sugar drink that can boost a person’s vitamin C intake.
For comparison, replacing the lemon with the juice of half an orange would provide almost twice as many calories, about three times as much sugar, and 24% DV of vitamin C.
The nutritional value of each glass of lemon water depends on how much lemon juice it contains and any other ingredients.
Due to its high vitamin C levels, flavonoid content, and acidity, drinking lemon water may offer the following health benefits.
Lemons contain vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant, and are a source of plant compounds called flavonoids, which have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.
Antioxidants are compounds that help protect the body’s cells from damage. By reducing cell damage, antioxidants help to reduce the risk of many health conditions, including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, obesity, and cancer.
Antioxidants do this by mopping up free radicals, which are harmful, disease-causing compounds in the body created by oxidative stress.
Research links chronic inflammation with increased oxidative stress and the risk of certain health conditions, including arthritis, diabetes, autoimmune conditions, and cancer.
One 2019 review reports that the antioxidants and flavonoids in citrus fruits can improve heart health and metabolic health markers, including glucose tolerance, insulin sensitivity, and fat metabolism.
Vitamin C is also important for immune system function, wound healing, and helping the body absorb iron from foods.
Increasing the amount of citrate in the body can help prevent kidney stones from forming by stopping calcium from binding with other compounds. Lemon water contains high amounts of citrate.
According to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, research suggests that drinking lemon water may help prevent kidney stones.
Not drinking enough water can increase the risk of kidney stones. Drinking more water can, therefore, help prevent kidney stones, whether or not there is lemon in it.
Anti-cancer: the vitamins and bioflavonoids in lemon juice have demonstrated antioxidant and anticancer properties in some studies. Digestion: the acids in lemon juice are known to help your body’s digestive processes, and can help you overcome constipation as well as settle a queasy stomach.
Lemon water aids weight loss
Lemons contain a type of fiber called pectin, which may help reduce appetite and calorie intake.
However, lemon water is basically diluted lemon juice, which leaves it with only trace amounts of pectin. In fact, the juice of a whole lemon contains less than 1 g of fiber.
There is no evidence to suggest that lemon water has more benefits for weight loss than plain water.
That said, lemon juice is naturally low in calories. Replacing sugary soda with fresh lemon water is a healthful way to reduce calorie intake, which is a positive step toward weight management.
Lemon water fights cancer
Some sources claim that lemon water could help prevent cancer. This is due to the alkaline diet theory and the premise that certain cancer cells cannot thrive in an alkaline environment.
Eating a balanced diet with a wide variety of fruits and vegetables can help to reduce the risk of cancer. However, there is currently no research that suggests lemon water will prevent or treat cancer.
How to Make Fresh Squeezed Homemade Lemonade
FAQ
Is it OK to drink homemade lemonade everyday?
Is homemade lemonade healthier than store bought?
Is lemonade better for you than soda?
Is lemonade healthy?
Lemon, and other citrus fruits, are popular choices for making quick drinks, no surprise since these citrus fruits have numerous health benefits. So we know that adding a splash of lemon and lime to water can be healthy. But what about lemonade? Is lemonade just as healthy and good for you?
What are benefits and risks of added sugar in lemonade?
There are different uses for lemonade with or without sugar. In the case of unsweetened lemonade, prepared at home with water and natural lemon juice, it is suitable drink to be consumed on a daily basis. If it is prepared at the moment it provides vitamin C. In the case of lemonade with sugar, it is a suitable drink for athletes who perform moderate to intense physical activity to help replenish glycogen and energy levels.
Why should you eat Lemonade?
Lemonades contain excellent antioxidants. It boosts up our immunity system and keeps us healthy. Antioxidants also play a secret role to maintain clean and fresh skin. Lemonade contains electrolytes that are essential for our body to function.
Is homemade lemonade healthier than store-bought?
Lemonade is a popular drink, but there are healthier alternatives available that still provide a refreshing taste without as many drawbacks. One such option is homemade lemonade made with fresh, natural ingredients, which is considered healthier than store-bought versions.