Warm Lemon Water: Real Benefits and the Hype

It’s not hard to come across videos sharing the “miraculous” health benefits of warm lemon water. Social media influencers regularly promote the drink as a natural solution to a range of health problems, from weight loss to improving digestion and skin, according to The New York Times .

But is there any solid scientific evidence to back up these benefits? Nutritionists have taken a more cautious view.

Warm lemon water has many health benefits but is not a "miracle cure"

Photo: AI

Rehydration

One of the most obvious benefits of warm lemon water is its ability to hydrate the body. Professor Emily Ho, a renowned nutritionist and director of the Linus Pauling Institute at Oregon State University (USA), emphasizes the essential role of providing enough water for basic functions such as temperature regulation, joint lubrication, digestion support and waste elimination. Warm lemon water easily encourages adequate water intake, especially in the morning. However, Dr. Joan Salge Blake (Boston University, USA) pointed out that filtered water, herbal tea... also bring equivalent rehydration effects.

Promote digestion

In terms of its effects on the digestive system, not just warm lemon water but fluids in general play an important role. Research shows that drinking enough water helps reduce the risk of constipation. Lemon juice can stimulate the production of stomach acid, which aids digestion to a certain extent. Dr. Ho also mentioned the possibility that citric acid in lemons may benefit older adults who tend to have low stomach acid secretion, but more evidence is needed to confirm this.

Boost immune system

Lemons are rich in vitamin C, which is essential for the immune system. Half a lemon provides about a quarter of the recommended daily intake. However, a review of 60 clinical trials found that high-dose vitamin C supplements did not reduce the frequency or severity of colds. Severe vitamin C deficiency is rare.

Losing weight

Drinking warm lemon water instead of high-calorie drinks may aid weight loss. However, there is no solid evidence of a direct effect on weight or metabolism. Some studies suggest that citrus may stabilize blood sugar, but the evidence is weak.

Warm lemon water is a great way to hydrate and is a healthier alternative to sugary drinks. However, it is not the miracle cure-all that many people claim it to be. Drinking warm lemon water is not harmful, but the widely touted miraculous benefits are not clearly proven by science.

Source: https://thanhnien.vn/nuoc-chanh-am-loi-ich-thuc-te-va-nhung-loi-than-thanh-hoa-185250410155826644.htm