Lemon water helps to cleanse the liver and kidneys, control excessive bile, stop vomiting, loosen phelgm and clean your mouth. Although it tastes acidic, it actually has an alkalizing effect on your blood, which balances the body's pH level and keeps cells and tissues functioning normally. Drinking lemon water can relieve heartburn and can be part of a low-calorie, low-sodium, low-fat diet.
What is a Serving of Lemon Water?
A serving of lemon water is eight ounces of purified or distilled water with the juice of half of a fresh-squeezed organic lemon. The water can be cold, room temperature or hot, according to personal preference. Hot water with lemon is especially good for breaking up phlegm if you have a stuffy nose.
Vitamins
Lemons are high in B vitamins, a group of eight water-soluble vitamins that help to regulate metabolism and keep your immune and nervous systems functioning properly. Lemons also contain vitamin C, another water-soluble vitamin, that plays a role in healthy muscle, skin and cartilage. Because these vitamins are water soluble, water in the body is necessary for their absorption; therefore, drinking lemon water increases their bioavailability.
Minerals
Lemons contain the minerals potassium, copper and magnesium, necessary for building strong bones and controlling high blood pressure.
Calories and Carbohydrates
Eight ounces of water has zero calories, and the juice of half of a lemon has about eight calories, so a glass of lemon water will have eight calories, which is 2 g of carbohydrates. Since there is no fiber in lemon juice, these would be considered "net carbs" for anyone following a low-carb diet.
Fat, Cholesterol and Sodium
Neither water nor lemon juice contain any fat, cholesterol or sodium, making lemon water a good choice for people following a heart healthy diet or worried about the effects of sodium such as high blood pressure, hypertension or stroke.
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