Is Lemon Water beneficial for health? Know what science tells us

Lemon water has been touted as a health elixir by many, but separating fact from fiction can be challenging when it comes to its purported benefits. While the lemon fruit itself is known to offer various health advantages according to Very Well Health report, it's essential to note that many claims about lemon water are not firmly backed by scientific research.

2 things you need to know

• Hydration is crucial and lemon water can enhance taste.
• Vitamin C in lemons aids immunity and skin health.

Hydration

Staying adequately hydrated is crucial for the body's proper functioning. Our bodies are predominantly composed of water (around 55-60%), and it plays a vital role in dissolving nutrients and eliminating waste. However, scientific studies have yet to provide conclusive evidence that adding lemon to water significantly improves hydration. Nevertheless, if the taste of plain water doesn't appeal to you, adding a splash of lemon can make it more palatable and encourage increased consumption.

(Sipping on lemon water, unlocking its secrets to better health | Image: Shutterstock)

Vitamin C boost

Lemons are a good source of vitamin C, with an average lemon containing around 34 milligrams of this essential nutrient. Vitamin C is known for its role in combating free radicals, aiding in collagen production, enhancing iron absorption and supporting a robust immune system.

Kidney stones

Some evidence suggests that incorporating lemon or other citrus fruits into your water may help in preventing or managing certain types of kidney stones. However, if you're dealing with kidney stones, it's crucial to consult a healthcare provider who can recommend appropriate dietary changes and treatments tailored to your specific condition. Adequate fluid intake and regular urination are key components of kidney stone prevention and treatment and lemon water might assist in ensuring you consume enough fluids.

Lemon water nutrition

The nutritional content of lemon water can vary depending on factors like lemon variety, size and ripeness. On average, a lemon contains roughly 57.8 grams of water, 18.8 kilocalories, less than 1 gram of protein and fat, 6.06 gram of carbohydrates and 1.82 gram of total fibre. Water itself is devoid of calories, fat, protein, and carbohydrates and it serves to dilute the tartness of lemon juice, making it more palatable. Some individuals may further enhance the taste and potential health benefits of lemon water by adding ingredients like honey, herbs or spices.

Overall, while lemon water may offer mild benefits and improve the taste of water for some, it's essential to approach its alleged health advantages with a dose of skepticism and consult with a healthcare professional when making significant dietary changes, especially if you have underlying medical conditions.