The way you start each day is incredibly important. Whether you’re a mom, a coach, a writer, a small business owner or a yoga teacher, what you do first thing in the morning matters.
According to Ayurvedic philosophy, choices that you make regarding your daily routine either build up resistance to disease or tear it down. Ayurveda invites us to get a jump-start on the day by focusing on morning rituals that work to align the body with nature’s rhythms, balance the doshas and foster self-esteem alongside self-discipline.
Your mind may say you have to check emails, take the dog out, get the kids out the door, that you can’t be late for work or that you just don’t have enough time to cultivate your own morning rituals. But if you can only make time for one ritual that will improve your health, let it be this: start the day out with a mug of warm water and the juice of half a lemon.It’s so simple and the benefits are just too good to ignore. Warm water with lemon:
Boosts your immune system. Lemons are high in Vitamin C and potassium. Vitamin C is great for fighting colds and potassium stimulates brain and nerve function and helps control blood pressure.
Balances pH. Lemons are an incredibly alkaline food, believe it or not. Yes, they are acidic on their own, but inside our bodies they’re alkaline (the citric acid does not create acidity in the body once metabolized). As you wellness warriors know, an alkaline body is really the key to good health.
Helps with weight loss. Lemons are high in pectin fiber, which helps fight hunger cravings. It also has been shown that people who maintain a more alkaline diet lose weight faster. And my experience is that when I start the day off right, it’s easier to make the best choices for myself the rest of the day.
Aids digestion. The warm water serves to stimulate the gastrointestinal tract and peristalsis – the waves of muscle contractions within the intestinal walls that keep things moving. Lemons and limes are also high in minerals and vitamins and help loosen ama, or toxins, in the digestive tract.
Acts as a gentle, natural diuretic. Lemon juice helps flush out unwanted materials because lemons increase the rate of urination in the body. Toxins are, therefore, released at a faster rate which helps keep your urinary tract healthy.
Clears skin. The vitamin C helps decrease wrinkles and blemishes. Lemon water purges toxins from the blood which helps keep skin clear as well.
Hydrates the lymph system. This cup of goodness helps start the day on a hydrated note, which helps prevent dehydration (obviously) and adrenal fatigue. When your body is dehydrated, or deeply dehydrated (adrenal fatigue), it can’t perform all of it’s proper functions, which leads to toxic buildup, stress, constipation and the list goes on.
Your adrenals happen to be two small glands that sit on top of your kidneys and along with your thyroid, they create energy. They also secrete important hormones, including aldosterone. Aldosterone is a hormone secreted by your adrenals that regulates water levels and the concentration of minerals, like sodium, in your body, helping you stay hydrated. Your adrenals are also responsible for regulating your stress response. So, the bottom line is that you really don’t want to mess with a deep state of dehydration!
Adopting just this one practice of drinking a cup of warm water with lemon in the morning for a month can radically alter your experience of the day. Don’t be surprised if you begin to view mornings in a new light. Like I said, the recipe is really simple – a cup of warm (not hot) water and the juice from half a lemon.
Love this tip? You’ll love our other top tips too: Drink green juice daily, eat superfoods, find a probiotic, swap out simple staples and adjust your pH! Sign up for our weekly newsletter to join our wellness-minded community.
We want to hear from you!
In the comments below, tell us which one of these benefits is going to get you to try this morning ritual. Or, if you’re already a lemon water junkie, what specific benefits have you noticed? Remember, real change comes from taking action.
I have a few genetic blood disorders that this will help me with. I have genetic migraines and I am always looking for ways to keep my body detoxified. I am going to try this for 30 days and see how it works for me. Thank you.
Wow. So glad to hear you’re going to try it. Please let us know how it goes…we’d love to hear about if it works and your journey to wellness. Best, The Chalkboard (Hello@thechalkboardmag.com)
Can we add sugar?
No, do not add sugar. White sugar is highly processed and very acidic. Stevia is a natural sweetener and is much healthier. Or honey if you need it sweetened.
Thank you for sharing this! I am so fascinated by Ayurveda and love trying to apply principals to my life. This gave me the extra push to drop my morning coffee and replace it with lemon water. Eeek! It is going to be tough….but this was inspiration! Thanks!
Congratulations! Let us know how its going we’d love to hear about how switching from lemon water to coffee is affecting your energy and day let us know at Hello@thechalkboardmag.com x
That is amazing that you are open to natural treatments to detox your body, I have actually been doing this for a couple months now, and it’s amazing!! just came across this page today, and I think it is absolutely wonderful what they promote here. My recommendation would be to keep one in your purse(lemon) that way you have it before your meals,best of luck,
M
lemon is hard on the enamel of the teeth though, wearing it away quickly due to the acidity (which is alkaline once metabolized). to avoid contact with teeth as much as possible, drink lemon water through a straw.
Great tip…it’s important to be mindful of your enamel because once its gone its gone forever. thanks for the reminder…using a straw is a great solution!
Does it have to be a fresh lemon or can in be from a bottle?
I’ve been doing the warm water with lemon for sometime now & feel the benefits you have described! I’m on weigh watchers &, this was a tip I got from my weekly meetings. lets say my body perks better than my morning coffee 🙂
I’ve been on steroids for a while. If it helps my adrenal system, I’m all for trying it. A little weight loss won’t hurt either
Hi there, thanks for the interesting post – will definitely give this a go tomorrow morning! I too would like to know if it needs to be fresh lemons, or can I use juice from a bottle? Thanks
Hi there, I’ve been doing this for a few months because I had trouble with too much gastric acid when I was under a lot of stress. So I started drinking warm water with lemon to relieve and relax my stomach. It really worked and I kept going since I realized that my entire digestive tract benefited from it and is more balanced.
drinking lemon water (or eating/drinking any other food for that matter) will NOT make your body more alkaline. your body maintains a comfortable pH of about 7.35 – that’s the blood and most organs beside the stomach and intestines. it seems this whole “alkaline” thing is catching on (most notably with the ionized water scams), but the fact is none of that will make your body alkaline. your body’s alkalinity is maintained through respiration (breathing). period.
that being said, there is not harm in drinking warm lemon water as it provides vitamin C and is great early morning hydration for the body.
I get what you are saying because I’m in nursing school but this is being discussed from a nutritional point of view for what irritates our system more and what does not. I had a time wrapping my head around the concept but I’m getting a better understanding of it because I have a very sensitive GI track and it responds quite well to this form of diet. So has my immune system and over all health. We of course do not want our blood Ph levels to be anything but balanced. But from what I have been learning so far I look forward to adding this to my morning regimen. I had been juicing and I just do not have time for it right now between work, school, and planning a wedding. I don’t know how other busy people find the time. But this seems like it would be a very addition. Thanks for the article!
Congratulations on your upcoming nuptials 🙂 There is always time for your health!! try putting a lemon in your purse so you can just squeeze it into warm water before meals 🙂
Alkaline foods and alkaline water make it easier for the body to maintain homeostasis. The body must work very hard if we constantly ingest acid ash producing substances, including chemicals, pesticides and so on. Also, body tissue in general can become more acidic than is healthy. The body can more easily employ the immune system to rid itself of these contaminants if it is not constantly taxed fighting to maintain its many other functions.
Scientific Research Studies on Ionized Alkaline Water
Physiological effects of alkaline ionized water: Effects on metabolites produced by
intestinal fermentation
by Takashi Hayakawa, Chicko Tushiya, Hisanori Onoda, Hisayo Ohkouchi, Harul-~to Tsuge
(Gifu University, Faculty of Engineering, Dept. of Food Science)
Totally agree, the body will do anything, to keep the blood alkaline, like getting calcium from the bones for example, yes the blood is always alkaline, but what part of you body is paying the price?
Blood is NOT alkaline. It’s neutral; its pH is tightly controlled to stay around 7.4.
I’ve been doing this for years, and was attracted to it for two reasons that you don’t quite mention:
1. Sleeping dehydrates the body; we’re breathing out moisture all night, and not taking any in, right? A big glass of water is the perfect way to get started, and the lemon (+ a bit of stevia, for me) is a bonus, makes it more tasty, and see #2.
2. Lemon is a great liver tonic. The Chinese have called the liver, “the general of the body,” because it is so important in so many functions, from digestion to detoxification to hormone balancing, and more. Being “kind” to our livers is just good medicine.
All of these benefits have inspired me to start this morning ritual..I’m finding mornings really difficult at the moment which in turn makes me lag during the day. I hope that I will see or more like feel a difference. Thank you!!
Thanks for this info! I have only heard of doing this when you feel bloated. I had not heard of doing this daily and first thing in the morning. I am definitely going to try it!
Do you get the same good benefits if you put the lemon into green tea? That’s how I start my day.
Great idea, pyzahn!
Thank you. I have also used the lemon juice cleanse with terrific results. I lost over 20 plus pounds in the past year simply eating healthy, natural foods, and drinking lemon daily. In fact, I make a few extra glasses each morning with fresh lemon juice and bring it to work with me. (My DDS advised the straw as well). My weight dropped, and my energy level kicked up a notch as well. Another sidebar: I have been cold and flu free for over a year. Whether that relates or not to the lemons, I intend keep my daily warm lemonade kick off to the day.
I have been drinking lemon water each morning for decades. I do it somewhat differently. I nuke a cup of water and add a slice of lemon. I drink two cups each morning. It has not impaced my teeth…note I am not using 1/2 a lemon! My teeth do stay white without teeth whitening products. I love this stuff, can’t skip it.
Results…great liver flush according to my doctor. I am 72 and not on meds. Also, my skin doesn’t begin to look my age. I think the results are “in” without such a large amount of lemon providing you make it a daily habit. I even travel with fresh lemon.
When my gallbladder starts barking,( not ready to remove it), half a lemon in warm water stabilizes the event. Additionally I enjoy it in the am with a splash of aloe Vera water.
Do green limes have the same effect?
Gabriela – limes do have similar benefits as lemons, so feel free to change it up every so often!
I juice 1/2 of a lemon every morning with my green juice. I always try to drink a glass of water either before my juice or along with it. Would it be overkill if I added another 1/2 lemon to my water considering I’m already consuming 1/2 lemon in my daily juice? Which, I will add, I love my juice. Going on 2+ months of green juice for breakfast Monday through Friday And I feel fabulous.
I don’t know if I could not have my morning coffee but I could have this before I eat breakfast. Question, is lemon water only effective if you drink it in the morning or can it be good for you at lunch or later. Thanks.
Hi Beth, while lemon water is an effective way to jump-start your morning, it is also great way to keep your body alkalized and healthy – all times of day!
If you’re worried about the effect of citric acid on your teeth just rinse your mouth with plain water after you’ve finished your lemon drink. This applies to any fruit juice drink or those containing sugars.
As for the numerous benefits claimed above, I’ll have to take these with a pinch of salt. I don’t think lemon, or any other ingredient, is a panacaea or a magical cure and cannot compensate for poor diet or other habits.
My advice is:
– Eat healthily, using a variety of fresh ingredients
– Exercise daily outdoors, even when it’s raining
– Sleep lots
– Ease up: do everything you can to reduce stress (and yes, there’s lots you can do)
I love lemon and limes and do put them both in my water here and there, never warm though and I didn’t even realize it helps with hunger cravings. Great post thank you!
How about substituting apple cider vinegar for lemon juice?
Can I follow this with my regular morning cup of coffee??? How much time delay? Coffee junkie.
Why not cold water? Or hot water?
Cold is so shocking on your system and will just burn you lol Not official, but just my thought.
I forgot the word HOT lol
I have made this my morning ‘constitution’ for 25 years now. I could not begin my day any other way; and I have to say it does wonders for the skin. So nice to see if affirmed!
I recently started trying to cut back on sugary drinks. Lemon and lime with a little stevia in some soda water has been a fantastic substitute, but I had no idea lemons had so many great benefits!
I have always drunk herbal tea first thing in the morning, so adding lemon should be easy. Linden tea, hibiscus, verbena, there are so many wonderful options out there, and with some lemon the mix would probably be even more delicious. Does it have to be just plain boring hot water????
I have been taking a glass of warm water with lemon sometimes and sometimes without for about 4 years now and my digestion is great and I do feel like my whole body is refreshed from just starting the day with a warm cup of water.
I love this tip! Just curious, what if you replaced the warm water with warm green tea? Will it still have the same effects? Better effects? Thanks!
The point of warm water and fresh lemon juice is to feed your liver what supports it. Green tea is beneficial but not in this instance. Green tea even decaffeinated has some caffeine & is not something it needs first thing. Caffeine has many actions. Many people drink green tea first thing it is not bad. But if u r looking to specifically treat your liver nicely leave out the green tea first thing.
I used to suffer from migraines every month. After reading an article on changing the body from and acidic to an akaline state, I spend about a month drinking glass of warm lemon/honey water each day. My migraines stopped immediately, and have not returned for over 6 years.
Does it have to be warm water? Can I drink cold water and have the same results?
Warm water is prefferable
I’m curious…why is warm water preferable? What about it makes a difference?
A friend of mine (who’s a personal trainer) told me this when telling me to start drinking warm drinks with every meal. Imagine a stick of butter on a cold skillet vs a warm skillet.
can you use lime too?
Hi Connie, limes have many of the same properties as lemons, so in a pinch we say go for it!
I have mine with a teaspoon of manuka honey too! My acupuncturist suggested this morning routine & my body/mind loves it (:
Manuka honey is our best defense against bacterial infections including lyme and MRZA. My stepmother ate 7 or 8 jars and it currd her MRZA eventhough it had set up shop in her lungs. There is sugar in lemons. There r different opinions but i like the fresh lemon juice and warm water w/o manuka honey. Too much sugar first thing is not neccessary. Manuka honey for me is better several times a day but not first thing.
Are there benefits to drinking this in the morning as opposed to the evening?
Awesome! I do this every morning, except I add a little honey to mine.
Can a lime be substituted for the lemon? Lemons are not all that common here in Belize.
Hi Denise, limes have many of the same properties as lemons, so in a pinch we say go for it!
so glad to read this. I hope it helps me with alot of problems I have been having..
I was wondering if it would be ok if I put a little honey in it?
I have been going this all my life. My italian great grendmother, who died at the age of 92 advised all the women in the family to do so and the benefits to health and beauty. What a great article! Thanks for being simple and true!
Loving all the conversation here, and the wealth of knowledge!
I have been drinking a 10 Oz. glass of warm water with the juice of a whole lemon first thing in the morning on an empty stomach for about 3 years now (and additionally throughout the day I drink 6-8 glasses of room temp water mixed with about 1 1/2 oz. of 100% pure cranberry juice). I began to do it after reading several excellent health articles about the gentle detoxing effects of the lemon warm water and the benefits to the liver if done first thing in the morning, plus the benefits of the sustained hydration throughout the day and the additional benefits of the effects of pure cranberry juice on fat tissue dilution. Although I have always practiced good nutritional habits and avoid extra sugars and simple carbs, I was still compelled to begin this new life style, and of course there is always the 5-10 lbs to lose, and I indeed was instantly delighted at the many positive changes. First off I noticed my weight drop and have not had a cold in 3 years. Sticking to the goal of 8 glasses of water per day has naturally replaced the fake ‘hunger’ I used to feel when really I was just thirsty. Note: I allow about 20-25 minutes after the lemon water before I drink or eat anything. It’s a win/win for my weight, my skin, and my liver!
Wow, Luz – what a success story! Thanks for sharing with us!
Hi – I will give this idea a try. I suffer rather badly from heartburn and acid coming back up the oesophagus for which I now require to take medication, which I am unhappy about. If takig lemon and warm water in the morning will make by body more alkaline, surely this will help with my problem?
I do believe it will help you with the heartburn. Good luck. Do let us know how it worked out for you. Thanks!
Thank you for this insightful article. I suffer from acne and started off by applying lemon juice to my face, it seemed to irritate my skin, so I stopped and switched to drinking warm water and lemon first thing in d morning. Its bin only 2wks now but I want to know if it really will help stop acne and clear my spots as weLl?
Great article, I’ve started drinking lemon water about a week ago as part of a detox. I noticed already that the spots on my face are starting to clear, I don’t bloat at all now, I’m a lot less hungry (and I pee A LOT haha!) mind you all the fruits, veggies, nuts and excersize would have something to do with that too). I’m still waiting for the “extra energy” bit… although I must admit I do wake up easier now. I use 1 lemon to fill four 500ml bottles and I drink almost 4 in a day (2 at work and 2 at home) so that’s about 2L. Well, so far so good, I’d like to maintain the lemon water habit for the rest of my life. I don’t use hot water though, so I’m just wondering why is hot water better?
Hi! I have actually been doing this since Jan. 1st. I was searching to learn more about the benefits when I found your article. It’s been 3 wks now. I start every morning with a warm lemon water. Ive also been eating healthier and I have to say, I am not as hungry as I normally am. As a matter of fact in the evenings, I’m not hungry at all, if anything I’ll have a warm lemon water with a bit of honey and thats about it. My skin is clearer too. My only concern is decay on the enamel of my teeth, so I brush right after. Best wishes everyone!
One thing I learned from my DDS was when eating or drinking something acidic to rinse immediately, but to wait a short while before brushing becuase immediately after your enamel is still soft from the acid.
i am really glad it works for me to reduce fats nd it keeps my immune system fits.. thanks a lot
I am almost 2wks in my new morning ritual, however I enjoy it so much it is now my favorite drink!!! My skin is changing and it is obvious that something is happening!! On top of that after 2yrs long recovery from a breakdown I have found a new “ZEST” for life shall we say! So when life gives you lemons….pour warm water on them & ENJOY!! FABULOUS is all I can say!!!
Signed one very happy lady :0)
What if you take synthroid first thing in the morning, how long do you have to wait to take the lemon and
warm water. Does it effect medication.
If you are taking synthyroid. My first suggestion is consult Ayurvedic doctor in your area. Yes there are ayurveda practicners in United States. Second get off that synthyroid prescription by taking simple suppliments. I am researcher and my research indicates following to boost your hypo-thyroid condition. Drink non-fluoridated alkali water. Ensure adequate consumption of trace mineral boron from natural or suppliments and of-course sea-salt. And kelp iodine Remember ro water is acidic and tap water is fluoridated. As far as lemon water goes drink it first thing in morning and anything else after 20 min.
This might be good advice for someone who still has a thyroid, but I’ve had a thyroidectomy, so I will have to take Synthroid for the rest of my life. Does anyone know the answer to the question? Synthroid is to be taken on an empty stomach and we have to wait at least an hour before eating breakfast. Should we wait an hour before drinking lemon water?
Yes, you need to wait for an hour before drinking lemon water. I’m in the same situation and I called my Endo and asked about it. He said I had to wait an hour since the vitamin C and Citric in Lemon will block the Synthroid absorption. Sorry for not having a better news, but I thought it’s important to let you know.
Thank you for the info, lp!
Thank you LP. I too had a thyroidectomy and wondered if I could take my Synthroid with the warm lemon water. Rats.
Yes! wait an hour after Synthroid. Do it the easy way, take your synthroid by setting your alarm, take it an hour before you get up, (I’m spoiled–my early rising hubby brings me mine in bed) and if you MUST try the lemon water before an hour, then have your TSH tested after a month of this. Otherwise, don’t do it.
I take this – A glass full warm water, 1 spoonfull of honey (10+) and a half a squeeze lemon or lime. I was suffering from poor digestion, headaches, lack of concentration and overall weakness. and this drink has created a magical change in all my problems. I feel so fresh and active after a glassful of this and slowly recovering my headache and digestion problems. Was curious to know if I can repeat the drink in the afternoon and evening as well? Please suggest.
Hi AK – yes, lemon water all day is perfectly acceptable and beneficial!
I’ve been doing this from time to time with boiling water (obviously waiting until it’s cooled down enough to drink). Is this still as beneficial as starting with warm tap water? Just curious, thanks!
omg, I started to drink lemon water every morning, warm, since I saw all the benefits to it and I noticed myself being more AWAKE and ENERGIZED at times before the lemon water I’d feel so groggy and tired. it’s great and I love it, I really want to find more secrets like this to improve my daily life, I feel great! 🙂
Wow! We’re so happy to hear such stellar results, Rachel!
Can you make it the night before or make a few servings ahead of time? Or does it have to be freshly squeezed in the morning?
Hi Syleah, we recommend making it first thing in the morning to get the most benefits!
I started drinking lemon water before I knew all these benefits for just one reason….I found it helped me sore throat that I frequently got. Over time I noticed a bunch of other benefits. My skin cleared (huge yay!) my sinus problem went mostly away and I could have a bit of dairy without major headaches, and ….biggest surprise of all…I slept all the way through the night without waking around 3 or 4 am with my mind racing. So I looked it up. Everything makes sense now except the sleep thing. I thought maybe I was imagining things so I stopped drinking lemon for a bit to see what would happen. After 3 days my sleep deteriorated to once again waking with a racing mind around 3 or 4. I’m glad to know I can drink lemon to help this again, but a bit scared to think I NEED lemon water in order to survive. What is wrong with me? How does lemon fix it? Any insight is welcome. Thanks for all the info you’ve already given!
In traditional Chinese medicine, a liver imbalance is what causes wake ups at around 4 am.
Hey lemon water does the same to me! I’ve had weight issues for the past 5-10 years. Have been on a low carb diet over a year. Lost 40lbs+ (thank you Gary Taubes & Jimmy Moore). My mood, brain function, energy, virtually everything improved. Recently started drinking lemon water with apple cider vinegar before meals. It lowers your blood sugar, aside from a 1000 other benefits. The most interesting side effect? I feel sleepy in a big way in the evening right after dinner! (which happens to be salad or nuts or some cheese for me). And, I sleep very deep! And, I have a harder time waking up in the morning… Like how I used feel when I was a kid. Am I worried? Not so much. I was somewhat insomniac before I started low carb. I used wake up at 4-6 am craving food! Thanks to low carb, that’s mostly gone. But such a deep sleep all night long? That’s all new to me! Some suggest acidic foods lower your blood pressure, hence the sleepiness. I’m fine with it really (as my BP is borderline high). I’m only worried about my teeth, as so much acid might be degrading them (half a lemon’s juice + 1 teaspoon ACV). Would be interested to hear any opinions. Thank you!!
the warm water strategy is new to me and i cant wait to try it! I am a HUGE water consumer already and one of my daily strategies is to keep a bottom spouted pitcher in the fridge full of ice and topped with my favorite fruits (lemon/lime, grapefruit/mint, mixed berries). I fill the pitcher with ice and its ready to go. I can easily fill my water bottles with it to go and drink by the glass while I’m home. It helps me get my water fill for the day with TONS of flavor!
I am going to try this today! Just wondered if using bottled lemon juice would have the same effect as fresh lemons. Thanks for all the great tips.
The importance of lemon juice in warm water cannot be under emphazised… I hav a testimony on my own. My menses delayed for two months which really got me scared cox i didnt know whether i was pregnant or not. I visited the hospital and received counter advice frm the nurse. Just recently i started taking lemon juice with warm water and “pa”… I saw my blood on the 3rd day of drinking the lemon… I have also cut down some weight and i and my fiance are very happpy about this. Jus try it. A glass of warm water with lemon juice, and u wil see wonders which were not mentioned here good luck.
I’m doing this, but adding a teabag of white tea. Does the tea mess it up?
Very interesting post. I am going to give this a go. I have been doing something similar with a fibre drink. Could the lemon be changed for lime?
i am a heavy tea and coffee drinker the other day my girlfriend suggested i drink a big mug of warm water with juice of one lemon it had an amazing effect physically and mentally i started doing 2 hours of solid housework it increased my motivation and energy going to do it every m,orning now
Does it matter if it is fresh lemon juice? Or can it be the bottled stuff from concentrate? Obviously, the bottled stuff would be MUCH more convenient.
Hi Patrick, it should be fresh lemon juice. If you’re looking for something more convenient check out the benefits of drinking raw apple cider vinegar!
Just wondering what the differences in benefits are of drinking water with apple cider vinegar (been doing this for 6mo) to drinking water with lemon juice. And can/should you do both? I once had my vinegar water and then tea with lemon slices and it made my stomach ache (to the point that I threw up, then felt better). I thought perhaps it was too much acid (?). If you shouldn’t do both, which do you think would have the most benefits? Or am I wrong about drinking too much acidity?
Paloma, both raw apple cider vinegar and lemon have the same alkalizing effect within the body – the opposite of the external acid effect. Since they both function similarly, we recommend either one of the other of these at a time.
Is their any contraindications in mixing both apple cider vinegar and fresh squeezed lemon juice in warm every morning? Is there any benefit to taking them separately?
Thank you
Why does the water have to be warm? Can I use ice cold water?
Warm water is much better for digestion first thing in the morning, Jess!
I’ve always loved lemon drinks so lemon is added to water kefir, kombucha, my water bottle or as a hot drink in cold wintery weather. This is the first year ever without a cold
I put a whole lemon in a 32 oz glass of cold spring water. I do this every morning. 2 questions: 1. Does it change the effect of the lemon water by putting Stevia in it? 2. Can I continue drinking my water cold or does it negate the effect? Must I start out with warm water? Is it absolutely necessary or will it have the same effect if I drink it cold?
French women have been drinking this for a long time. It’s called “citron presse”.
Has anyone gotten cold sores from too much lemon??? Any solution for that? I get them when I eat lemons and grapefruit.
I read about drinking a glass of water with lemon every morning and the benefit of it. So i tried it out and i must say i feel fresh every morning now, more energized than ever, my craving for food has reduced too. Am happy i discover this and its going to be my companion for life. i have been struggle to loss some weight for over 4 months after having my baby, within this short period of drinking my glass of water with lemon mixed with honey, i can feel the change in my body weight.
I have been using lemon first thing in the morning for about a year. The article I read suggested quickly drinking the juice from half a lemon and following that with about 2 oz. of warm water. This has worked very well for me and I am not concerned about damaging the enamel of my teeth with this method.
Well I drink a cup of pure lemon once every week because I like the acid, is that ok? Although i hardly get exhausted on my day.
Can I still get the benefits using bottled Realemon instead of real lemons?
Ricardo, we recommend using real, fresh lemons. Use a bottle of raw apple cider vinegar instead if you prefer something shelf stable.
I felt great in just a day of taking water and lemon, I usually wake up around 3am, but slept like a baby with my bladder full (is that alright) Am so doing this everyday if I can get this result in a day. And I woke up energerized.
Hello All,
I am trying this after many hours of research on alkaline verse an acid body. I have been struggling with canadida glabarta and a burning mouth after a strong round of antibiotic’s in June. I know there is a connection because the same thing happened 10 years ago after cipro. I have cut all sugars, yeast, gluten and started probiotics been doing that for about 3 weeks now. Done all the antifungals, and boric acid suppositories… I have just started the lemon water yesterday adding a little baking soda and stevia…I feel like my mouth is not burning as much, I am hoping it will also help with the glabrata by keeping the ph in balance. Any one with similar situations or results I would love to hear. Thank you!! what a great site
please drink only with warm water plus lemon juice which is cut it half and squeez juice into the cup by you.
don’t add soda, baking soda, green tea,hot water,salt,sugar,hoeny or lime they are separate entity, if you add them to the lemon juice there will be chemical reactions which will affects power and quality of lemon charcterstics… just simply follow the rules and get the impossialbe nectaar from that.
those who are having medication, health issues and so on… please take the half of the lemon juice to half liter of water and drink a or two cup lemon juice … you will see the real mircale all the way….prashanth venkataswamy… anyway thank you “thechalkboardmag.com”
does lemon juice have the same effect or do i need fresh lemons?
Hi Elizabeth, we definitely recommend fresh lemons!
Hi! Thanks for this informative article!
I just want to ask if it’s okay to drink lemon water in an empty stomach?
I have been drinking lemon in warm water for 3weeks now and its actually helping me to loose weight. My question is can lemon juice be replaced with lime. Because lime is more available in my area than lemon
Pls I’m really scared abt the issue of sleeping beyond 4am. I’m a student and I like waking up to read at night.Can anything be done to stop the side effect?
i tried to drink hot water with drops of lemon and honey on my empty stomach in the morning but why is it that whenever i will take my bowels it is painful. i feel like i am constipated but as i read many article it will cure constipation. and i tried not to drink last moth after my bowel bacame normal and not painful. then i tried it again and then this problem occurs. can you please give me some idea what is the problem?…thank you
This is great tip, I have definitely felt better since I started doing this every morning. Thanks for sharing this!
I have thyroid problem… so i have to take tablet on an empty stomach … then how can i drink lemon juice with empty stomach????…
Hi Maheswari, definitely consult your health practitioner to find out what’s right for you!
i was told to wait one hour, just like for the rest of foods, pharmacist looked at everything else i take/eat in my morning to see anything that needs to be outside of the 4 hour window for max levo absorption, seek dr direction 🙂
i have been takin hot lemon water with a pinch of salt in it….just wanted to know is it right to take these for loosing weight???
My step mum has been drinking a glass of warm lemon water near enough every morning for 10 months. The results we have seen are incredible!!! The weight is dropping off her, she is much bubblier and it has helped her skin. Her doctor recommended it originally to aid her digestive system and not only are all these problems now eliminated but she has seen many other results too! She swears by it and recommends it to every body she sees. She looks and feels incredible – and that’s all down to this easy solution. Thanks!
Do you get the same benefits if you had the lemon to tea with honey?
do you get the same benefits by using limes?
Great article & comments! Thank you.
Why warm water? Does lemon + water combination have the same effect if the water is ice cold?
Cassie,
Ayurveda states that drinking any cold liquid will put out your digestive fire. Also, one is not supposed to drink liquids while eating as it will flood the stomach and prohibit the best possible digestion as well.
When should I have my breakfast? One hour after or something? Or is this breakfast itself?
From what I’ve read in other articles regarding warm water/lemon juice in the morning, it is suggested that you should wait at least an hour before eating to get the full benefits.
I started daily on my warm water and lemon and now I’m up to three cups a day. I suffered constipation for over 20 years on and off, horrible. A friend of mine got me onto this ritual and boy does it every WORK. Keep in mind that you still have to eat a healthy diet and exercise but the warm lemon water really gets the bowel moving normally.
Just found out about it! I heard that a pinch of salt (along with the lemon and warm water) do the trick. Does the salt really helps?! Other thing; i wake up and drink this…how long should i wait to eat something in the morning?
P.S: I´m using the lime since are easier to find in Brazil
I read that you should wait 30 minutes in order to let the lemon water really start working. Have you kept up with it?
I have been substituted warm water and honey instead of drinking coffee and tea I feel so healthy and more active I have lost weight or may I say i have lost a lot of body fat my clothes are a lot looser, yet on the scales I am still the same which is very strange ,my intake of food has reduced and I never feel hungry , and my sweet tooth has disappeared !!!!
my cholestrol level is high (above 5.5) though my overall stress test results etc are good (stage 5) and my HDL is also high. does it have anything to do with the ph balance of my blood system? overall I am careful with my food and hv started this lemon & warm water regime past 3 mths. 1 impt Q – does taking coffee after an hour + negate the good effects? Tq so much – appreciate other advise as well
I had very bad breath but after drinking lemon juice with warm water in early morning on my empty stomach what a miracle !!! No bad breath, No Flu nor cold for the past 6 months!!!, lose some weight !!!, I have been taking this early in the morning before 2 hours of my breakfast and coffee or tea time too. Absoultely it is very simple yet great nectar to the mank kind. Please drink it and you will fly everday and all the time!! prashanth venkataswamy
First, I have to say I really enjoyed reading all the different post. I have ulcerative colitis and meta plasia of my stomach. Too much acid!!! With that said I never get heart burn or acid reflux Unless I drink lemon water! If lemon water turns Alkaline once drank, why does it affect me this way? Please help answer if possible. Thanks much
Really informative article i want to know two things 1. I squeezed one lemon juice in a water bottle of 1.2 litres. , and water is at room temp my question is does it reduce weight? Becz i dont want to lose weight i m already skinny. Kindly plz reply soon.
All of the above, but mostly for potassium for Bp and weight loss
I know this is an old post, but in case anyone is reading this…
Is it okay to take my daily probiotic at the same time you have lemon water in the morning? (I take Megafood Megaflora, which I originally found thanks to advice from this site!)
Can you still have your morning cup of coffee after you drink the lemon water ?
I started doing this 2 weeks ago. It cleanses my palette in the morning and I’ve definitely lost a bit of weight as we as just feeling ‘cleaner’ internally. It’s a great way to start the day.
Great health Info— look forward to receiving more— THANKS
I would like to add honey to my lemon water, will I still get the same benefits from the lemon water?
Hi DiAnn, if honey helps you make this into a lasting habit, then a tbsp of honey should be just fine!
My first try will be tomorrow morning. I can’t wait. Based on the comments here I’m encouraged!
I have been taking lemon in water for years now and it certainly does kick start your system first thing in the morning I am also a big fan of Ayurvedic practice and medicine too. However I will say you do not need the juice of half a lemon – over time this will strip your tooth enamel. A slice of lemon in hot water left to steep and cool for 10-15 minutes is sufficient and will save you a lot of money on your dental bill. There are some great articles on here – really glad I found you.
I just drinking this 4 days ago and yet i have already reaped the benefits. 1) My pores seems to shrink. 2) I feel so much energetic :)))))))) don’t hesitate. Just drink and experience miraculous changes.
It’s great that you are getting ideas from this paragraph as
well as from our argument made at this place.
I switched from coffee in the morning to weak-ish black tea with the juice of 1/4 lemon and I love the taste and feel great. I’m seeing all the benefits that plain hot water and lemon are said to give. I can’t drink warm water on it’s own, not even with lemon – must be a psychological block or something 🙂
The rest of the day I sip on water with lemon slices in it. Cold water – ice cold. No shock to my digestion. Who wants to drink warm water on a hot day? Yuck. That certainly won’t quench thirst.
After Drinking warm water and lemon for a month and if stopped will it put on weight?
For those of you have busy lives, squeeze lots of lemons at one time and place in a ice cube tray and freeze then next day place them in a freezer baggy, every night before I go to bed I put one in a container place on my night stand and first thing in the morning when I wake up I mix it with warm water and drink and that’s how I start my day easy and no fuss and start all over again the next, very easy right? That’s my contribution to us busy folks.
I am a coffee drinker when I get up in the morning – not during the day. I have 2 large cups of coffee with cream and stevia at most each morning because I enjoy my coffee and do not want to give it up.
How long after taking the lemon and water should I wait before having my coffee with cream and stevia? I don’t like black coffee. Thanks!
Is their any contraindications in mixing both apple cider vinegar and fresh squeezed lemon juice in warm water every morning? Is there any benefit to taking them separately? Please elaborate
Thank you
Is a shot of lemon, ginger and garlic good for you?
How soon after can I drink coffee or eat breakfast. I have a pretty tight AM schedule.
I am wondering how soon after you drink warm lemon water can you enjoy your cup of morning coffee? Thanks.
Didn’t this have a pinch of salt with it? I’ve read about it before, like in HealthDigest Facebook page or Twitter and it said that it was with a pinch of salt as I remember.
I take levothyroxin first thing the same time every morning, as I hd my throid removed, so I wake up at 6:00am take the pill and go back to sleep. I make sure I don’t take the warm lemon water until at least two hours after the pill, so I hope the benefit of the lemon water is still going to be a benefit to me. I also have a blocked left saliva gland,I have already had the right saliva gland removed due to stones. I read that the lemon water will help disolve the stones, has anyone else tried this remedy for stones in the saliva gland and had good results?
What happens if we drink warm water with lemon in evening before going to sleep. Morning are busy withe travelling to work and all. How safe is it? Even though you would recommend early morning. Thanks
30 days of this relieved my gout by 100%. It also helped with depression. It might be so because it sparked off a lifestyle revision. The lemon drink in the morning was a gateway to a better quality of life. I see the lemon morning drink as a key. Use to unlock the door to your path. I did. It helped me ultimately in a dozen ways.
Can someone with stomach ulcer take that juice or will it make the condition worse.
I have a small vile of lemon essential oil. I put a couple drops in my water bottle throughout the day. Does the essential oil have the same effect as the fresh squeezed lemon in warm water?
They’re different. The essential oil is distilled from the peel, while lemon juice is extracted from the fruit. They both pack health benefits, but they possess different compounds.
What would be the beneficial differences between drinking warm lemon water and water with apple cider vinegar?
They both contain enzymes, but I’d imagine they differ. Also, lemon juice has citric acid while vinegar contains acetic acid. Raw apple cider vinegar also has probiotics, so there are certainly some differences between the two. I have always used them interchangably though. They both work major magic with digestion and nausea.
I love your info on lemon water, but I take a thyroid medication in the morning and I am wondering if the lemon water will have any effect on this?
interesting.
If you are over 150 pounds do you drink one whole lemon in 8 ounces of water or 16 ounces of water
So what you’re saying is that by drinking a solution that’s slightly acidic will make my body more alkaline and that will somehow fix all my life’s problems? wow, it almost sounds like bullshit.
EDIT: I accidentally put “almost” instead of “definitely”
Not sure anything could fix your life problems..
I like lemon water 1st thing in a.m. My question is re adding cinnamon & raw organic cocoa to my fresh veggie juice. Will that cause the veggie juice to go thru digestion system instead of straight to the blood stream [which is one of the great nutrition benefits of fresh juicing]? If not certain, can you refer a reference source?
I add organic lemon aid to my water and it takes away the aches I feel in my body and makes me feel less tired. It really works for me!
I think i will give it a try with tea but after i speak to my gp about it because i have had acid reflux and i am on medication for that in the morning, I will post back in a few weeks, Let yous know how i get on.
I was wondering why you don’t answer all the questions about drinking coffee? I would like to have my coffee first but am I not supposed to? Will it negate the lemon water effects?
Hi Cherie, coffee can be acidic as opposed to lemon water. Lemon water is useful to take first thing upon waking and if you drink coffee, drink it after that deep hydration. That’s just our opinion.
try 400 mg daily of additional b2 riboflavin in addition to a good b complex. Not all brands absorb the same for me. Also 500 mg magnesium twice daily. Peer reviewed studies and personal experience, this does work to keep migraine occurrences down. Yogurt is a HUGE migraine trigger, so is just dairy in some folks. Adding ginger and a cinnamon stick to the lemon adds the ginger anti headache properties and is also alerting 🙂 wakey wakey! (hemiplegic migraine, retinal migraine, basilar migraine)
I was just wondering, if I just eat half of a lemon everyday, will that offer the same benefits as drinking lemon water?
You’ll get the nutrients, but not likely the same benefits of a big glass of alkalizing water on an empty stomach.
I’ve been drinking warm lemon water for a couple months it’s become a morning and sometimes evening ritual thanks for the info!
Sounds easy enough to add to the morning routine
Hi I enjoyed the topic too. I been consuming about 2 c of warm water and the juice of a lemon every morning for over a year now. I do not add anything else. My only regret is I don’t know the date I started. I swear by the benefits! Only thing is – I’ve recommended it to others (family mostly) and it doesn’t have the same effect in the morning for them. It takes about 10-15 minutes for me to have a movement and that feels very cleansing. I wish there was science that backed this up. Someone needs to do a thesis on it because I swear by it. I carry fresh lemons and my juicer gadget around with me when I travel too! I was in the hospital and a dietician surveyed me and I suggested they have that option for patients. During my hospital stay I got my husband to bring me my lemons and juicer gadget. That is how much I completely believe in this simple morning ritual.
Hi Angela,
I know this is a very late post to your comment, but just wondering what lemon “gadget” you use when traveling?
Sweet
Nice to know
I am doing this for 1week. One thing i am confused about, just how much warm the water should be???
I don’t think there’s a magical temperature. The idea behind using warm water is to keep your body from experiencing the sudden shock and stress of drinking cold water. Room temperature water is fine. However, if you’re feeling chilly than you might as take the cue from your body and heat your water up. 🙂
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I drank a cup of warm lime water early this morning, I’ve been urinating constantly since then
Will I still get the same benefits from the lemon water if I would like to add sugar or honey to my lemon water? Does honey lose its properties if it is mixed with hot water?
Just wondering if using lemon from concentrate, is the same as fresh lemon
It should be real organic lemon.
Yes concentrated should be fine. In fact if you can get a factory-made synthetic lemon it’s even more potent
I drink lemon water in the morning, but would appreciate tips for minimizing the acidic impact on my teeth.
I’ve been drinking lemon water for the last couple of days and today realized I have a huge sore under my tongue. I’m assuming it was the lemon water. I want to cry every time I eat something it’s so painful
What an unbelievable pile of crap!
I have been drinking lemon water throughout the day–but I have used cold water. I’m going to try warm water and half a lemon in the morning. Thanks for the suggestion.
I got positive results in drinking fresly prepared lemon and water before taking anything in the morning.
Why do you say not to use hot water with lemon in the morning? Does the hot water destroy the nutrition from the lemon or are there other reasons? Is it okay to make hot water in my coffee maker, let it cool to warm and then add the lemon? What are your thoughts about adding honey if the taste is too acidic? Thank you.
why are you guys asking questions? No one from the chalkboard is answering you. Drink it, don’t drink it, believe the hype or not. Its not poison make your own grown up decision. This type of article is all over the internet-nothing new. BTW-You don’t get mouth sores from water with lemon in it as someone mentioned above, sounds viral to me.
Thanks for your serious and rather humorous writing about “Lemon Water.” This afternoon I was feeling a bit out of gas, came home and had a glass of the brew. Within one hour my higher energy level was a real surprise. Twice a day, morning & evening, will be a regular habit. Happy to read more of your tips in the newsletter. Thank you!
Would a cup of hot tea with lemon in the morning work?
Will drinking lemon juice every day prevent cancer? How much a day is needed?
I love the lemon water. Would it hurt the benefits of the lemon water by adding a chamomile tea bag?
the amount of misinformation is staggering – lemon water is highly acidic as it goes down your esophagus and into your highly acidic stomach. At what point does it turn alkaline? Dangerous idea for anyone suffering from GERD or any related disease.
Great thank you. how much lemon do i need to use per litre? And would it be better to have hot water first and rest over night?
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