Lemons be the bomb – from the lemon queen herself

Whether you “start the day with lemon water” or sip lemon all day in your water or perhaps you enjoy the liver cleansing aspect of lemon water at night. The overall health benefits of consuming lemon (as juice, pith and peel) are many. This article is all about the why and also a bit of the how to line up for the best results of consuming this lovely bright sour fruit.

Lemons contain bioflavonoids, which are plant-derived compounds that have antioxidant properties and may help with immunity, circulation, and inflammation. 

Citrusbioflavonoids in lemons include: hesperidin, eriocitrin, and naringenin 

It is because of these bioflavonoids that lemons have many claims to promoting over health and wellness as well as lemons capacity to detoxify and alkalise the body.

The Correct Way to Prepare Lemon Water

To maximize the benefits of lemon water, start by using fresh, organic lemons to avoid pesticides. Squeeze half a lemon into a glass of warm or room temperature filtered water. This temperature is ideal as it is gentle on the stomach and can aid in digestion. Avoid using boiling water, as it can destroy the vitamin C and other beneficial enzymes. Similarly avoid using cold water also as this is harder on your digestion.

If you prefer a milder taste, you can adjust the amount of lemon juice to your liking, but remember that moderation is key to protecting your tooth enamel. For an extra health boost, consider adding a slice of ginger or a dash of turmeric, both of which have anti-inflammatory properties. Stir well and consume immediately to enjoy the full benefits.

Always use fresh lemons as the pure bottled variety does contain preservatives, as well as very little Vitamin C

Additionally, some people overdo it by adding too much lemon juice, which can lead to enamel erosion due to the high acidity.

While lemon juice is naturally acidic with a pH of only 2 as it enters the body- the result of metabolising the lemon becomes alkaline with a pH well above 7. This is why I go on about lemons being alkalising!

Let me help with understanding common misconceptions as we move towards optimizing your lemon water routine.

The Best Time to Drink Lemon Water: Morning vs. Night

Lemon in the Morning:

Boosts Hydration – Replenishes fluids after a night’s sleep. Wakes up your taste buds and gets your liver going.

Aids Digestion – Stimulates the production of bile and digestive juices and balance blood sugar levels.

Supports Weight Management – Helps with appetite control and increases metabolism for the day.

Rich in Vitamin C – Strengthens the immune system and promotes healthy skin via improvement of capillary permeability.

Balances pH Levels – Though acidic, lemon has an alkalizing effect on the body.

Improves Skin Health – The antioxidants and vitamin C can promote clearer, brighter skin, supporting collagen synthesis.

Supports Detoxification – Encourages liver function and helps flushes out toxins through the kidneys.

Freshens Breath – Helps reduce bad breath by neutralizing bacteria in the mouth.

Boosts Energy and Mood – Can improve alertness and mood first thing in the morning.

May Support Heart Health – The vitamin C and flavonoids in lemon support heart health by reducing oxidative stress and decreasing cholesterol levels. Further protecting cells from harmful oxygen- free radicals.

Lemon Water at Night:

Addresses Hydration – Helps replenish fluids lost throughout the day and prevents dehydration overnight.

Aids Digestion – Can support digestion by stimulating digestive enzymes and preventing bloating or indigestion.

Supports Detoxification – Assists the liver in flushing out toxins while you sleep which is when the liver does its main detoxing work.

Boosts Immunity – Provides vitamin C, which strengthens the immune system and helps fight infections.

Enhances Skin Health – The antioxidants and hydration can improve skin texture and reduce signs of aging.

Aids in Weight Management – Can help curb late-night cravings and support metabolism.

Balances pH Levels – Though acidic, lemon has an alkalizing effect on the body, promoting overall balance therefore lemons are alkalising effect overall.

Encourages Relaxation – Warm lemon water with ginger may have a soothing effect, reducing stress and improving sleep quality.

Freshens Breath – Helps eliminate bacteria in the mouth that cause bad breath overnight.

Supports Heart Health – Contains flavonoids and vitamin C, which contribute to cardiovascular health.

Lemon and Fibre

Lemons contain some carbohydrates and mostly soluble fibre as well as simple sugars. The main soluble fibre in lemons is pectin. Anyone who makes jams with a squeeze of lemon juice knows the value of this amazing fibre for “setting” a jam.

Soluble fibre can improve gut health and slow the digestion of sugars and starches resulting in reduced and balanced blood sugar levels. Of course, to get this valuable fibre you need to consume some of the pulp from lemons.

According to Paul Pitchford “Healing with Wholefoods” lemons have a cooling nature, very sour and antiseptic.  Lemons have the added benefit of destroying putrefactive bacteria in the mouth and intestines. This is partly due to the bile inducing action of lemons which also enhances the absorption of nutrients.

The list of benefits is compelling, whether you are a lemon in the morning or lemon at night kind of person the timing choice is personal – however the one thing that is clear –lemons on the consume daily list – is a must for lemony brightness to shine through all day.

I am off to buy another lemon tree!

Yours in health

Karlene