Drinking water with lemon has numerous benefits, but like with everything else, moderation is key. Otherwise, you may experience several undesirable effects.
To experience these benefits, drinking a glass of warm water with the juice of half a lemon in the morning is usually sufficient.
According to experts, you shouldn’t consume more than the juice of 2 lemons throughout the day. Excessive intake may lead to some of the following unwanted effects:
- Damage to Teeth: Lemon is acidic, which can harm tooth enamel. One or two glasses of water with lemon shouldn’t be problematic. But consuming larger amounts exposes your teeth to more acid.
- Stomach Issues: While lemon with water is good for digestion, overconsumption can lead to problems. If you already suffer from acidity, excessive drinking of water with lemon may worsen symptoms, potentially causing nausea and vomiting.
- Bacteria in Lemon Peel: Though not necessarily related to quantity, it’s essential to be cautious when drinking in public places. A 2007 study found that lemon peels from restaurant lemons often contained bacteria, including those that can cause health issues. To avoid this, it’s advisable not to put a whole lemon slice with the peel into your glass; instead, just squeeze the juice.
- Aggravation of Canker Sores: According to the American Dental Association. Consuming too much water with lemon may worsen canker sores due to the acidity in lemons. Rinsing your mouth with plain water after consuming lemon is a good practice.
- Potential Link Between Citrus and Migraines: While further research is needed, some studies suggest a connection between excessive consumption of citrus fruits, including lemons, and migraines. Concerning lemons, this might be attributed to the higher levels of tyramine, a natural compound often associated with headaches.
Note: This doesn’t mean that is harmful. On the contrary, it has many benefits, but only when consumed moderately. The aforementioned consequences arise only with excessive and elevated consumption. If you’re unsure whether to continue drinking or start doing so, it’s best to consult with your doctor.
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