Water with lemon on an empty stomach: how useful is this advice promoted by nutritionists really?

Lemon water seems to have become a social media fad lately, but whether this citrus-infused drink is actually healthy is under investigation New York Post.

“Lemon water is being promoted on social media these days,” said April Wiles, a North Carolina-based registered dietitian and website owner. thegenxdietitian.com.

“Many claim that it promotes weight loss, improves skin condition, aids digestion and balances the body's pH levels,” she added. “Some of the claims related to lemon water are supported by evidence, while others are not.”

Benefit and harm

Lemon water contains vitamin C

“Lemon is an excellent source of vitamin C, which can help boost overall immunity, especially during cold and flu season,” says Emily Tills, a registered dietitian nutritionist for the site. nourishedwithemily.com, located in Syracuse, New York.

Lemon can also add trace minerals to water, Tills says. This can increase hydration levels, which typically decline during the colder months.

However, Tills says you should be wary of drinking too much lemon water, as its acidity can erode tooth enamel, causing sensitivity.

Wiles, for her part, says that lemons contain only a small amount of vitamin C, but she notes that “vitamin C plays an important role in maintaining the health of the brain, skin, heart, bones and immune system.”

Lemon water supports hydration

According to experts, if you increase your water intake, lemon juice will help you with more than just that.

“Lemon water is great for promoting adequate hydration,” says Wiles. “Lemons add flavor to water, which can make it a pleasant alternative to sugar-sweetened drinks.” For those who want a sweeter option, Wiles suggests adding a little stevia or monk fruit.

Rachel Richardson, Registered Dietitian Nutritionist and Website Owner nutrolution.com from North Carolina, advises growing and adding fresh basil or mint to your water.

Or brew ginger, turmeric, or green tea to create your own anti-inflammatory electrolyte drink. “Be creative, go with your gut, and remember to choose real mineral water that isn't packaged in plastic so you can start with the healthiest water possible,” she said.

Should you drink lemon water every day?

Before you start buying several kilos of lemons a week, consider the following advice.

“It's okay to drink a glass of lemon water once or twice a day,” says Wiles. “However, if you have a gastrointestinal problem, such as acid reflux, it may make your symptoms worse or worse.”

Tooth enamel damage

Echoing Wiles' advice, Richardson said drinking too much lemon water can damage your teeth or lead to sensitivity over time.

“So I recommend changing the fruits, herbs or roots you use to flavor your water, and not programming one healthy habit for long,” Richardson said.

She also warned against the trend of mixing and drinking crushed lemon peel by adding it to water, as seen in videos posted on TikTok and Instagram.

“The reason is that the peel contains high levels of natural plant pesticides that protect the inside of the fruit, and this can lead to severe inflammation and kidney problems such as joint pain in some people,” says Richardson.

“Instead, peel the lemons and use them as an air freshener or cleaning product,” she advises. While lemon water may not live up to all its health claims, it can still be part of a healthy diet.