Many people follow the ritual of drinking a glass of warm water with a splash of lemon juice every morning. Why? Its properties justify it
What a simple and pleasant remedy! We have all taken it at some time, as a medicinal drink or as a soft drink.
Lemons deservedly have an aura of “food-medicine” and many people benefit from it every morning by repeating the ritual of drinking a glass of water on an empty stomach with the juice of a freshly squeezed lemon.
Lemons contain many organic acids – such as citric acid – that stimulate salivation and relieve thirst more than just water. This is why most soda pop is acidic.
LEMON WATER: 6 BENEFITS THAT WILL CHANGE YOUR LIFE
Drinking lemon water every morning has infinite benefits, but these are the first you will notice:
- The taste is acidic but increases the excretion of acids through the urine, so its effect on the blood and the body is alkalizing (and, therefore, detoxifying). The pH of lemon is 2.6, possibly one of the most acidic among fruits. Grapefruit, orange, pineapple – or tomato – are also acidic.
- A glass of water with half a lemon provides 2 kilocalories, and in return it offers us potassium (10 mg), vitamin C (4 mg), flavonones (2 mg of eriocitrin, diosmin, hesperidin and naringenin) and some fiber (0.5 g). This formula is purifying and improves blood circulation.
- Lemon water is a first-choice remedy for colds and pharyngitis. Its effectiveness as an immunity booster has been attributed to its vitamin C content. However, although lemon is rich in this vitamin, it is not a “bomb.”
- The effect is due, according to studies, to the combination of aromatic oils and phytonutrients such as flavanones, which multiply by 200 the stimulating capacity of vitamin C.
- Thanks to the citrate content (230 mg in 5 ml), it prevents the appearance of kidney stones. Consuming the juice of half to one lemon each day significantly raises citrate levels in the urine, which reduces the formation of stones in the urinary system (in the kidneys and bladder).
- Lemon water also helps improve immunity. The joint action of vitamin C and flavonones increases the number of white blood cells, defensive cells capable of eliminating viruses, bacteria and diseased cells. For this reason it is recommended in the dietary treatment of infections, especially respiratory infections. ??
If we want to do a fast with the aim of promoting purification and weight reduction (if possible, under the control of a dietitian or a doctor), we can take about 40 lemons in 10 days.
HOW TO DRINK LEMON WATER
There has been a lot of speculation about how much lemon we should take. This depends on the purpose. If we want a healthy and invigorating drink, half a lemon or a whole lemon with water in the morning is more than enough.
Preparing lemon water is very simple. Put the freshly squeezed juice of half a lemon or a lemon (organic if possible) in a large glass of warm natural mineral water. That’s it, no sugar or other additives. Maybe you can add a fresh mint leaf if you have it on hand and you like it. Take it right after waking up.
A traditional remedy when we have a sore throat is gargling with lemon juice and natural unfiltered honey. A vegan version can be made by substituting maple syrup for honey (but it doesn’t have the same qualities). In the end, we gulp down the delicious juice. ????
To do a fast in weight loss regimes : mix the juice of half a lemon, 1 glass of water, 2-3 teaspoons of maple syrup or sap, a cayenne tip and some mint if desired. You can take 6 to 12 glasses a day for a maximum of 10 days (do so under professional supervision). ??
We do not recommend the consumption of packaged juice, as it loses properties. Natural lemon juice is preferable. And it is even better if you add a little zest from the skin, as it contains a large amount of essential oils and flavonoids.
ARE THERE CONTRAINDICATIONS?
There are no known contraindications (except for people with delicate teeth). Not even diabetics have to worry because it contains little sugar.
Another thing is to do a long fast with lemon. In this case, people with diabetes or kidney disease should consult their doctor.
The teeth can become somewhat yellowish. It can even promote cavities. So if you have delicate teeth, drink the lemon water through a straw. After taking it, rinse your mouth with water. But don’t brush your teeth because it is too abrasive.