Be careful with the trend on social media: Drinking lemon juice to detoxify and cure all diseases?

Currently, on social networks, there are many calls to drink lemon juice every day, even drink it instead of breakfast to 'detoxify' the body, lose weight, improve health and even promote it as a cure-all.

Master - Doctor Vo Thi To Hi, Head of the Department of Nutrition, Gia An 115 Hospital, said that lemon is rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, helping to increase resistance and improve digestion. However, to take advantage of the benefits of lemon without causing harm, it must be used properly. Consuming large amounts of lemon juice for a long time can cause many consequences.

Consequences of drinking lemon juice for a long time

Erosion of stomach lining : Lemon is highly acidic (pH about 2-3). Drinking too much, especially on an empty stomach, can increase the risk of stomach ulcers, gastroesophageal reflux.

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Damages tooth enamel: Citric acid in lemons can erode the protective enamel layer of teeth, making teeth sensitive, prone to pain and damage.

Effects on the kidneys: Lemons contain citrate, which helps prevent kidney stones by inhibiting the formation of calcium oxalate stones. However, if you drink concentrated lemon juice and do not drink enough water, your urine can become concentrated, increasing the risk of mineral accumulation (including oxalate from food), leading to kidney stones in some people.

Increased risk of electrolyte imbalance: Continuous lemon consumption, especially when combined with fasting for weight loss, can cause deficiencies in potassium, sodium and essential micronutrients, leading to electrolyte imbalance.

Amount of fresh lemon juice shared by one person drinking in the morning

SCREENSHOT

According to Dr. To Hi, there is currently no scientific research proving that lemon juice has the ability to detoxify the liver, treat cancer or melt belly fat. Lemon is a dietary supplement, not a medicine. Abusing lemon or applying methods that lack scientific basis can pose risks to the body.

"The human body has a self-detoxification mechanism through the liver, kidneys, respiratory system and skin. To maintain good health and support the body to detoxify effectively, you should practice a healthy lifestyle: eat a balanced diet, drink enough water (about 1.5-2 liters/day), get enough sleep (7-8 hours/day), exercise regularly and have regular health check-ups," said Dr. To Hi.

Sharing of a person who drinks 150 ml of lemon a day

SCREENSHOT

The body can only absorb a certain amount of vitamin C.

According to specialist doctor Chau Thi Anh, in charge of the Nutrition Department, Xuyen A General Hospital, Ho Chi Minh City, the body can only absorb a certain amount of vitamin C at a time, the excess will be excreted through the urinary tract. 2,000 mg per day is considered the upper safe limit of consumption. Exceeding the recommended daily amount of vitamin C can lead to abdominal pain, kidney stones and diarrhea. Taking in large amounts of vitamin C does not mean superior health improvement, but on the contrary, can cause unwanted side effects.

Drinking lemon juice in large doses, especially without consulting a doctor, can have negative health consequences.

"Instead of following unscientific trends, everyone should equip themselves with proper medical knowledge and consult medical experts to make the best choices for their health. Health is a long-term and comprehensive care process, and cannot rely on a single method that is hyped on social networks," Dr. Anh advised.

How to drink lemon water properly?

Dilute properly : Mix 1 lemon (about 2-3 tablespoons of juice) with 200-300 ml of warm water or filtered water. Do not drink pure lemon juice.

Appropriate dosage : Use 1-2 lemons per day, divided into 1-2 doses, avoid drinking on an empty stomach.

Protect teeth : Use a straw to reduce contact with teeth, helping to protect tooth enamel. You can rinse your mouth with water after drinking. People with a history of gastric - duodenal ulcers, gastric reflux, weak tooth enamel or kidney disease should limit or consult a doctor before using. Lemon is only a supporting food. To achieve optimal health, it is necessary to maintain a balanced diet and not depend on a single food.

"Lemon can be part of a healthy diet, but it is not a substitute for medical treatment or a healthy lifestyle. Use lemon properly to reap its benefits and avoid health risks," Dr. To Hi recommends.

Source: https://thanhnien.vn/uong-nuoc-cot-chanh-moi-ngay-thai-doc-tri-bach-benh-hay-ruoc-benh-185250506102548072.htm