Drinking lemon water in the morning is considered good for health. However, experts warn that this drink is not as "versatile" as many people think, and can even be harmful if used incorrectly.
The benefits are real, but it's not a "miracle cure."
Lemon water provides vitamin C and antioxidants, which help support the immune system and keep the body hydrated. Drinking warm lemon water in the morning can also gently stimulate the digestive system, according to Medical News Today (UK).
In addition, lemon water helps increase gastric juice secretion, supporting smoother digestion. Some compounds in lemons also contribute to reducing oxidative stress, thereby helping to protect cells and providing a feeling of alertness and lightness in the stomach at the start of the day.
Dr. Duane Mellor, a nutritionist and lecturer at Aston University (UK), says that claims such as "body detoxification" or "rapid weight loss" through lemon water lack clear scientific basis. According to him, the liver and kidneys already perform the body's natural detoxification functions.
Drinking lemon water in the morning is considered good for health. However, experts warn that this drink is not as "versatile" as many people think.
Photo: AI
People with stomach problems need to be cautious.
One of the major risks is the acidity of lemons. Acidic drinks can worsen gastroesophageal reflux disease or irritate the stomach lining in sensitive individuals, according to the UK National Health Service (NHS).
Dr. Trisha Pasricha, a gastroenterologist at Harvard Medical School (USA), says that drinking lemon water on an empty stomach can cause heartburn or discomfort in some people, especially if they have pre-existing digestive conditions.
It may affect tooth enamel.
Lemon juice can affect not only your stomach but also your teeth. According to the British Dental Association, the citric acid in lemons can erode tooth enamel if you drink it regularly, especially when it's concentrated.
Dental experts recommend diluting lemon juice and limiting the acid's contact with teeth.
It should not replace breakfast.
A common mistake is replacing breakfast with lemon water in an attempt to lose weight. However, according to the British Nutrition Foundation, a balanced breakfast plays a crucial role in providing energy and maintaining metabolism.
Experts emphasize that lemon water should only be a supplemental beverage and cannot replace a complete, nutritious meal.
How should one drink appropriately?
Experts recommend diluting lemon juice with warm water, avoiding drinking it on an empty stomach if you have stomach problems, not overusing it in large quantities daily, and combining it with a balanced diet.
In other words, lemon water in the morning may offer certain benefits, but it's not the right choice for everyone. Understanding and using it appropriately is key to long-term health protection.