The Health Benefits of Lemon Water
By Sara Butler
Lemon water is gaining popularity these days. Many nutritionists suggest starting your day with a hot cup of lemon water before you have tea or coffee. But does it really make that much of a difference when it comes to your health? Yes! Adding a little sliced lemon to your water can make a big difference in your health and wellness. Here’s how.
It’s Hydration Promoting!
People who drink lemon water tend to drink more water throughout the day than those who don’t. Anything that helps you to stay hydrated is good for your health, so if adding a little slice of lemon helps to inspire you, then go for it.
It’s Full of Vitamin C
Fruits such as lemons and limes are high in Vitamin C, a nutrient that can help to reduce your risk of stroke and cardiovascular disease. It may even help to lower your blood pressure. Lemons may not be at the top of the Vitamin C list as far as citrus fruits go, but they’re still a good source of it. One-quarter cup of lemon juice has over 30 percent of the Vitamin C you need per day.
It Helps Your Skin
Vitamin C helps to reduce skin wrinkling because it helps your skin to retain moisture. Well hydrated skin is plump and has more elasticity, which makes it less prone to wrinkles. The American Society for Clinical Nutrition has stated that people who get more Vitamin C are less prone to dry, wrinkled skin.
It Helps with Digestion
Drinking warm or hot lemon water can help to wake you up in the morning and get your digestive system ready to face the day. It can help reduce the incidence of digestive issues, too.
It Helps Your Breath
No one wants to walk around with bad breath! Sipping on some lemon water can help neutralize odors of the foods you eat such as onions, fish, or garlic. Simply drink a glass of lemon water after meals to help stimulate your saliva glands, which helps to keep your breath fresh by not allowing bacteria to grow.
How to Make Lemon Water
It may seem simple, but there are a few tips to help you make water that tastes good and provides you with the health benefits mentioned. You should:
- Use fresh lemons, not lemon juice
- Squeeze half a lemon into 8 ounces of water
- Add mint, honey, or ginger for a kick
Don’t be afraid to add limes or oranges too. Even cucumbers are a great addition to your water. Drinking plenty of water is good for your health, but you can boost the benefits with a little lemon!
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Woodland Hills, Calif.