Lemon in water: Trick or treat?
You have probably encountered videos in social media promoting different recipes for drinks that will make you lose weight, look younger, and feel healthier? Most of them have one ingredient in common: lemon.
So, does the lemon really work? Is it a simple life hack to weight loss or is it just a tasty treat to trick you into drinking more water?
The simplest recipe is to squeeze half a lemon into a cup of hot water. You are told to drink it first thing in the morning on an empty stomach. Some put a teaspoon of honey to improve the taste.
To make sure you can stay hydrated the whole day, you can place thin slices of lemon into a pitcher of water. Some include mint leaves and even some fruit slices. You can enjoy a glass of this infused water anytime you please.
I also encountered an interesting tip that I will try soon. You can a squeeze lemon into the water you place in ice cube trays, that way you get the taste of lemon infused water when you use the flavored ice cubes. Other recipes include garlic, turmeric, ginger, cinnamon, black or cayenne pepper.
Indeed, boiling sliced lemons and drinking water infused with other flavors has gained popularity in recent years due to its numerous health benefits. This simple practice not only adds a refreshing twist to plain water but also provides a natural way to promote overall well-being.
Enthusiasts claim that consuming lemon-infused water offers a range of advantages, including aiding digestion, promoting hydration, and potentially supporting weight loss.
One significant benefit of boiling sliced lemons and drinking the infused water is its positive impact on digestion. Lemons are rich in citric acid, which stimulates the production of digestive enzymes.
Apart from physical benefits, consuming lemon-infused water can also have a positive impact on mental well-being. The refreshing aroma of lemons has been linked to reducing stress and anxiety levels. The scent of lemons can uplift mood and create a sense of calmness and relaxation.
This can aid in breaking down food more efficiently, preventing indigestion, bloating, and constipation. Lemon water also acts as a gentle diuretic, promoting regular bowel movements and reducing gastrointestinal issues.
Moreover, lemon-infused water is an excellent source of vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant that supports the immune system. Regular consumption of vitamin C can help protect against common illnesses like colds and flu. Lemons also contain vital nutrients such as potassium, calcium, and magnesium, which contribute to maintaining a healthy body.
Another significant benefit of drinking lemon water is its potential to promote hydration. Many individuals struggle to consume enough water throughout the day due to its plain taste. By infusing water with the refreshing flavor of lemons, it becomes more enjoyable and encourages increased water intake. Staying hydrated is essential for regulating body temperature, lubricating joints, and aiding digestion. Lemon water can thus serve as a flavorful and enticing way to ensure proper hydration.
In addition to aiding digestion and promoting hydration, boiling sliced lemons and drinking the infused water may support weight loss efforts. Lemons contain pectin fiber, which can help curb hunger cravings and reduce appetite. Additionally, the citric acid found in lemons can boost metabolism and increase the rate at which the body burns calories. While lemon water alone is not a magical weight loss solution, it can be a useful tool when combined with a balanced and healthy diet.
Apart from physical benefits, consuming lemon-infused water can also have a positive impact on mental well-being. The refreshing aroma of lemons has been linked to reducing stress and anxiety levels. The scent of lemons can uplift mood and create a sense of calmness and relaxation.
While more research is needed to validate the claims, no one can dispute the fact that infusing your water, whether cold or hot, with lemons could improve your hydration and also prevent intake of sugary drinks.
If you love lemons you can also use it as a healthy salad dressing. Just squeeze the lemon over your salad and drizzle with olive oil and your favorite spices.
In Indonesia, they have this herbal drink or Jamu which they said is anti-inflammatory. It’s a juice made from turmeric, ginger, black pepper, lemon juice and honey (optional).
This Jamu is known to soothe inflammation, restore balance to the body, aid in digestion, and prevent nausea. It can be taken cold or warm.
You can opt to either peel the ginger and turmeric or scrub them well and keep the skin. Slice the turmeric and ginger into thin disks and place in blender with two cups of water. Blend for a minute, then allow to rest for five minutes. Strain into a jar. Add two more cups of water and a dash of pepper plus some lemon juice. Add honey to taste if required.