Lemonade has become quite the trend in Europe and the US as a detoxifying elixir. Many folks are even ditching their morning coffee and tea routines in favor of this tangy beverage.
But does lemon water actually have any real health benefits?
While more scientific research is needed to fully support the health benefits of lemon water, here are 6 potential benefits that drinking lemon water may provide:
Hydration Obviously, water is the best way to stay hydrated. However, lemons can add some flavor to your water and help you reach your daily water intake. Health experts recommend that women drink around 2700ml of water each day, while men should consume 3696ml (including water from food).
L-ascorbic acid supplementation Lemons are a citrus fruit that are rich in L-ascorbic acid, a primary antioxidant that protects cells from free radical damage. L-ascorbic acid may also help reduce your risk of cardiovascular disease, stroke, and hypertension.
Although lemons don't have the highest L-ascorbic acid content among citrus fruits, they are still an excellent source of this important nutrient. According to the USDA, one lemon provides 18.6 mg of L-ascorbic acid, and adults should consume around 65 to 90 mg of L-ascorbic acid each day.
- Antioxidants may aid in weight loss Research has shown that the polyphenol antioxidants found in lemons can significantly reduce the body weight of mice in animal studies. In these animal tests, these antioxidants also slowed down glucose levels and insulin resistance, two major causes of diabetes.
Although the weight loss effect of lemon still needs further human testing to confirm, there are still many claims that lemon water can aid in weight loss. Whether the weight loss effect of lemonade comes from adequate water intake or the lemon itself remains to be further explained.
Improved skin texture The L-ascorbic acid in lemons may help reduce wrinkles, dry skin, and sun damage. As for whether drinking water alone can improve skin quality, the academic community still has no clear consensus on this. However, it is certain that if the body and skin are dehydrated, it will undoubtedly lead to wrinkles.
Fresher breath Have you ever tried rubbing lemon on your hands to get rid of the strong smell of garlic or other ingredients? The same principle applies to improving bad breath. Lemons can improve mouth odor caused by eating garlic, onions, or fresh fish.
It is recommended to drink lemon water after meals or in the morning to freshen up your breath. Lemons also stimulate saliva production and improve the growth of oral bacteria caused by dry tongue.
- Preventing Kidney Stones The citric acid in lemons may help prevent kidney stones. Citric acid reduces the acidity of urine and breaks down stones. Not only does citric acid help, but drinking lemon water will also allow the body to have enough water to pass the stones.
