Drinking coffee has become a really bad habit for our morning routines. I can’t help but cringe to see myself write that, but it is true: Coffee is just not that great for us. It has been linked to ulcers, headaches, high cholesterol, miscarriages, IBS, bloating, gas, stress and insomnia.
Lemons, on the other hand, are packed with vitamins and minerals. They have high levels of vitamin C, vitamin B6, fiber, calcium, iron and potassium. So, let’s cut our coffee intake (can’t believe I just said that) and, instead, rise to a hot cup of zesty lemon water at daybreak!
Still no takers? Did I not make that sound super exciting? OK, well… check out this long list of lemon water benefits and you just may change your mind about switching out your cup of joe.
1. Aids in digestion
Citrus flavonoids — found in citrus fruits — assist the hydrochloric acid in your stomach in breaking down food and may help protect against ulcers.
2. Manages weight
Citrus flavonoids also inhibit the synthesis of certain fats (yes!) and were noted in a study published by International Journal of Molecular Medicine and Advanced Sciences to suppress appetite.
3. Reduces inflammation
Antioxidants in citrus fruits fight inflammation in the body, while vitamin C is known to help build collagen. Bonus: Drinking more water will help hydrate your cells, which will also aid in diminishing inflammation.
4. Clears skin
Speaking of hydration, your skin will look better, too! While the vitamin C is building collagen and fighting free radicals, you’ll have plumper skin and be less susceptible to wrinkles.
More:7 Things you do every day to cause eye wrinkles
5. Lessens bloat
Spokesperson for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, Alissa Rumsey, R.D., tells Women’s Health that lemon water can act as a “mild, natural diuretic.”
6. Boosts immune system
Vitamin C in lemons will boost your immune system so you can fight off disease. To obtain the recommended 75 to 120 milligrams of vitamin C per day, you would need about one full lemon.
7. Freshens breath
Although lemons can wear on tooth enamel — which is why it is beneficial to dilute them in water — they stimulate the salivary glands, reduce inflammation and kill bacteria (think: cleaning product for your mouth).
8. Offers potassium
Potassium is the most prevalent mineral in lemons and offers several health benefits, like healthy heart, brain and nerve function.
9. Invigorates the senses
The fresh-squeezed scent of lemon in the morning can help wake you up, set you in a positive mindset for the day and calm anxiety. That’s a win-win-win!
Leave a Comment