Lemon Water in the Morning: What Dieticians Really Say About the Popular Ritual.

According to ТСН: Social media is actively discussing the recommendation to start the morning with a glass of warm lemon water. Many people believe this ritual has miraculous properties. However, dieticians emphasize that both lemon drinks and plain water have their benefits, and it is important to understand how they affect the body.

Is It Useful to Start the Day with Lemon Water

Experts agree that the first glass of water with lemon in the morning can become a beneficial habit. After sleep, the body experiences a slight fluid deficit, and the first sip activates metabolic processes. Adding lemon juice enhances this effect due to vitamin C and antioxidants.

Dietician Julia Zumpano notes that lemon water is a simple way to make sugar-free drinks more flavorful. A glass of the drink made from the juice of one lemon contains only about 11 kcal and 21% of the daily norm of vitamin C. However, it should be remembered that regular consumption can negatively affect the condition of dental enamel due to the acidity of lemons. Therefore, it is recommended to drink through a straw or rinse the mouth with plain water after consumption.

However, dieticians stress that lemon water is not a panacea for 'cleansing' the body and cannot serve as the only method for weight loss. Extreme detox diets that exclude food are considered dangerous.

Lemon water can be consumed at any time, but morning consumption has its advantages: it helps restore fluid balance faster, increases vitamin C levels before breakfast, and gently supports the digestive system. The acidity of lemon partially compensates for the natural decrease in stomach acid with age, which can positively affect digestion processes.

Main Benefits of Lemon Water

• Improved Digestion. The acid from lemon supports food breakdown and normal stomach acid levels.

• Hydration Support. Many people do not drink the required amount of fluid, and the lemon flavor makes water more appealing. The ideal indicator is nearly clear urine.

• Reduced Risk of Kidney Stones. Lemon juice can prevent stone formation and aid in breaking down small ones. The National Kidney Foundation recommends mixing about 110 ml of lemon juice with water for prevention, but only on a doctor's advice.

• Weight Control. Lemon water is a low-calorie alternative to sweet drinks, helping to avoid excessive sugar consumption in the morning.

• Antioxidant Protection. Vitamin C strengthens immunity and protects cells from damage.

Potential Drawbacks

In addition to the risk to dental enamel, lemon juice can irritate the stomach in people with reflux or increased sensitivity. In such cases, specialists recommend reducing the amount of juice or choosing less acidic drinks.

Dieticians agree: plain water is the basis of hydration. Lemon drink can be a useful addition, but not a replacement. The best option is to start the day with lemon water, and throughout the day consume plain water.

How to Properly Prepare Lemon Water

Squeeze half a fresh lemon into approximately 230 ml of warm or room temperature water. Optionally, mint, ginger, or turmeric can be added to enhance the flavor. Avoid sugar and sweeteners. If the taste is too strong, increase the volume of water to 300-350 ml.

Remember that properly selected food can positively influence memory and concentration just as well as physical exercise. Experts have identified 15 products that help the brain work more effectively.