The Benefits of Lemon Water as your Morning Ritual

There are many health benefits to drinking lemon water. Lemon water has become a popular morning beverage and I have jumped on that bandwagon. This natural morning elixir that simply combines the juice of half a lemon with water is packed with potassium, Vitamin B and C, calcium, magnesium, antioxidants, and iron. I like to drink my lemon water warmed for a soothing morning ritual with definite health benefits. Let’s delve into this simple ritual…

HOW TO MAKE LEMON WATER

If it sounds super easy to make lemon water, that is because it is. Here is how to make the best lemon water possible to really reap all the health benefits:

Step 1: JUICE YOUR LEMON

Pick a medium size fresh lemon with a little give to it. Roll it against your cutting board a bit to break it down a bit. Avoid lemons that feel hard, because they are simply not ripe enough to release all the healthy juices. Don’t use bottled lemon juice from the supermarket since they usually have additives and preservatives. Cut the lemon in half and gently squeeze the entire half into a bowl so you can spoon out the seeds. You can also use a lemon squeezer if you choose. Pour the juice into a water bottle (my favorite water bottles are 16 oz. @HydroFlask and @KleanKanteen)or you can pour into a glass.

Step 2: USE ROOM-TEMPERATURE WATER

The temperature of your water really does matter. If you are getting your water from your refrigerator, be sure to warm it up for 5 or 10 seconds in your microwave or a tea kettle. Temperature actually alters the molecular structure of the lemon juice and can compromise the benefits you’d otherwise receive. Room temperature water aids in the best absorption and utilization of the vitamins and phytonutrients. So, room temperature for me!

Step 3: MIX THE JUICE WITH THE WATER

Pour the lemon juice into your water bottle or glass and top it off with your room temperature water. Cap your bottle and shake or stir with a spoon in your glass. Sip and enjoy all day long. Enjoy!

THE HEALTH BENEFITS OF LEMON WATER

1. It jump-starts your digestive system.

Drinking lemon juice helps to jumpstart your digestion system in the morning as it helps the body better absorb nutrients and pass food through your digestive system with ease. Lemon juice also helps relieve bloating and heartburn. Sign me up!

2. It could help you lose weight.

Lemons contain pectin, which is a healthy fiber that supports weight loss by reducing cravings. If you sip your lemon water between meals, you just might find yourself snacking less throughout the day.

3. It boosts your immune system.

Vitamin C is known for fighting off illness. Natural levels of this vitamin tend to drop when you are under stress and could make you more likely to get sick. Amp up your intake on your crazy days…one whole lemon has about half the recommended daily amount of needed Vitamin C.

4. It reduces inflammation.

Do you ever deal with sore joints? You might have a uric acid buildup. Your lemon water dissolves that! Again, sign me up!

5. It improves the health of your skin.

Vitamin C plays an important role in collagen synthesis (which boosts your skin’s elasticity)and repairs damaged cells. And, wouldn’t you know, lemon juice also has astringent properties that help to heal blemishes and even scars from past blemishes! The natural phytonutrients in lemons promote the rejuvenation of healthy skin cells.

CAN YOU DRINK TOO MUCH LEMON WATER?

Lemon water is delicious, but you can overdo it. If you find yourself sipping on lemon water all day, here are a few things to keep in mind. Don’t rely on only lemon water to stay hydrated; the citric acid found in lemons can wear away the enamel on your teeth over time. As with most things, moderation is key. Diluting lemon juice with water helps to lower these effects. Drinking it with a straw also can help guide the lemon water passed your teeth.

ADDITIVES

Ginger can add some extra flavor and as well as added anti-inflammatory and digestive support.

Cayenne pepper will add a little kick to your lemon water. Cayenne pepper contains capsaicin, which has been found to have several health benefits, including cardiovascular, digestive, and anti-inflammatory support, among others. And it’s just a fun change to your familiar ritual.

Tumeric adds a golden touch to your lemon water. It, too, provides antioxidiant and anti-inflammatory benefits you won’t want to miss out on!

Let’s just say you can add any or all of these for an extra-powerful health boost! You can even try experimenting with other add-ins like fresh cucumber, mint, or berries. Anything that keeps you sipping! Variety is key to making this ritual a lifelong favorite!