One of the widely circulated tips found online and featured in health publications suggests that consuming lemon water first thing in the morning may aid in losing weight quicker, detoxify the body, and achieve a flatter abdomen. However, what do actual scientific studies indicate? Is it necessary to press a lemon each day for shedding pounds? Let’s clarify this long-standing myth.
A rite beneficial for digestion … yet not extraordinary
Consuming a cup of lukewarm water mixed with lemon first thing in the morning mildly encourages digestion, specifically by prompting bile secretion and boosting liver activity. Oranges contain high levels of vitamin C, anti-oxidants, and citric acid, which makes them beneficial for the gastrointestinal tract. Some individuals may find this helps alleviate feelings of fullness or enhances bowel movement.
➡️But beware
This doesn’t imply that it burns fat.
No immediate impact on losing weight
Unlike what certain articles suggest, lemons do not have scientific evidence supporting their ability to burn fat. They neither remove fat cells nor significantly boost metabolism. The fact that they are acidic or considered “detoxifying” does not imply they contribute to weight loss.
As per a review featured in Critical Reviews in
Food Science and Nutrition
(2022), “detoxifying” foods claimed to aid in weight loss lack strong scientific support beyond contributing to a well-rounded diet and active way of living.
A good hydration reflex
Should this practice assist individuals in achieving improved hydration first thing in the morning, steer clear of excessively sugary breakfast options, or help them become more attuned to their natural appetite signals, then certainly, it may subtly support healthier dietary patterns. It serves as a tool for behavior modification, rather than a quick fix solution.
Do not use if you have gastrointestinal issues
Consuming lemon juice first thing in the morning may cause irritation for individuals who experience heartburn, acid indigestion, or gastroesophageal reflux. It is advisable to try it gradually and avoid making it a regular practice if you notice any unpleasant symptoms.
Verdict: partial myth
Consuming lemon water first thing in the morning doesn’t lead to direct weight loss, yet it may fit into a healthy lifestyle provided you understand it cannot substitute for proper nutrition and consistent exercise.
