I’ve requested lemon when dining out for as long as I can remember. Why? Probably because my mom did it or maybe because it tastes better than plain tap water. It’s probably a combination of the two, but it hasn’t been until recently that I’ve learned the health benefits that come from drinking this simple drink.

So, what are the benefits of drinking lemon water?

Cleansing

Lemons are antiseptic. They have a powerful cleansing effect on your liver, kidneys, and blood. An overworked liver has an impact on how good you feel, so cleansing it each morning can have a big impact on your energy levels.

Digestion

Lemon water, especially first thing in the morning, can help relieve or prevent digestion problems like bloating, gas, and heartburn. In general it helps to stimulate better digestion. Aka it helps you poo and keeps you regular. 

Vitamins

Lemon juice is a good source of vitamin C (88%), folate, and minerals such as potassium, calcium, and magnesium.  

Alkalization

The high mineral content of lemons makes them alkalizing to the body, despite their citric acid content.

Healthy Skin

Vitamin C is also responsible for building collagen in our skin. Collagen is necessary to keep the skin firm and young. Count me in!

Stronger Immune System

Vitamin C is vital to the functioning of a strong immune system. The immune system’s main function is to protect you from illness, so a little extra vitamin C may help you ward off colds and the flu.

Low Calorie

This fruit is low in calories (just 29 per 100g). It is also low in sugar and has a low Glycemic Index score, meaning it won’t spike your blood sugar levels.

Lemon water is a simple and healthy internal cleanser, so why not add it to your morning routine? Start your morning off by juicing a whole lemon in either chilled or hot water. The sharp taste will wake you up and get you going.

Sipping on hot lemon water and sometimes some decaf tea is also a great way to end the day and wind down. This light and hot drink winds me down and gets me into a relaxed cuddle bug mode.

How To Make Lemon Water

1. Grab a lemon.
2. Juice it using a citrus juicer. I picked mine up at Target for a couple of bucks.
3. Pour your juice into a glass and top it off with cold or hot water and drink it up!

Photo credit: Andrew Comings