A citrusy pick-me-up: The 15 health benefits of drinking lemon water in the morning

Taking a glass or two of lemon water every morning is one of the simplest yet most effective ways to attain and maintain good health. The body is quick to absorb nutrients from the foods consumed during breakfast, allowing it to enjoy the many benefits of citrus-enriched water.

This antioxidant-rich treat for the skin and digestion also promotes healing and detoxification

Lemons contain tons of antioxidants that eliminate free radicals associated with cancer. They also neutralize the acidic environments that contribute to the growth of cancer cells. A systematic review by Cheju National University in 2009 provides supporting evidence that lemon and other citrus fruits decrease the risk of pancreatic cancer.

Lemon water repairs blemishes and revitalizes damaged skin. It kills bacteria responsible for acne, slows down the aging process, and makes skin glow with youth.

It also speeds up recovery from injuries and stress. Lemon water heals bones, cartilage, and tissues, and helps maintain their health. It also melts mucus, making it a good choice of drink for people with sore throats.

Digestion also benefits from a daily morning intake of lemon water. Lemon has a similar digestive activity as saliva and the hydrochloric acid in stomach juices. It also stimulates the liver to make more bile for digesting food.

Lemon removes toxins from the digestive tract and flushes them out of the body. Its citric acid content supports the detoxification activity of the liver. (Related: Start your day right by drinking lemon water.)

Lemon water improves immunity, cognition, weight, breath, and lymph

It is common knowledge that lemon contains vitamin C, which fights inflammation and infections. It also has saponin, a phytochemical that improves many respiratory conditions. Its mucus-melting activity lets it clear out air vessels while its anti-inflammatory property alleviates asthma. It is no wonder that lemon water is recommended for colds and coughs.

The high levels of magnesium and potassium in lemon improve concentration and other brain functions. They raise energy levels, make people feel better, and relieve the negative effects of depression and stress. Drinking lemon water will be a lot of help to people who heavily rely on their mental faculties during work.

Lemon water is also very beneficial to people who wish to shed some pounds. Its detoxifying and digestive effects help reduce weight; its pectin content fights cravings; and animal studies show that it can prevent obesity in rats on high-fat diets.

The citric acid in lemon gives it a scent that improves breath. Lemon water also alleviates the symptoms of gingivitis and toothaches.

Lemon water also provides hydration for the lympathic system. Considered to be the biggest circulatory system in the body, the lympathic system is responsible for getting rid of toxins and waste from the body.

A caffeine-free, eye-friendly energy booster that balances blood sugar and pH

Lemon water not only replenishes water loss, it also immediately raises energy levels. It protects the brain, cardiovascular system, digestive system, and immune system from dehydration. Adding honey to lemon water increases its energy-boosting effect.

Although lemon water is acidic, it balances pH levels. The magnesium, potassium, and other minerals in lemon spread throughout the body, making it more alkaline.

It also restores the healthy balance of blood sugar. Its bioflavonoids spur the body into producing more insulin, making it very helpful for diabetes patients.

Lemon water achieves similar revitalizing effects as coffee. Coffee contains potentially harmful caffeine, can cause dehydration, and increases acidity.

Finally, lemon water can protect the eyes from cataracts, macular degeneration, and other eye problems. In addition to vitamin C, it also contains vitamin A, which is great for the eyes.

Sources include:

FoodsForBetterHealth.com

NCBI.NLM.NIH.gov