Although detox diets are mostly novelty and, in many cases unsafe, regularly drinking lemon water may encourage toxin removal while providing essential hydration. Lemon and water contain respective benefits conducive to a healthy diet and lifestyle. Adding lemon juice to each glass of water throughout the day may help to cleanse the body and assist your liver in the detoxification process.
Nutrients in Lemon
Lemons are part of the citrus family and are rich in vitamin C -- a powerful antioxidant essential it the growth and repair of tissues throughout the body, as well as in the formation of collage that makes skin, scar tissue and blood vessels, according to MedlinePlus. Lemon juice also helps to stimulate digestion by stimulating digestive enzymes to move and expel any toxin buildup trapped in the intestinal tract, Theresa Cheung says in her book "The Lemon Juice Diet." Lemon also helps enhance liver function by acting as a tonic for bile production.
Water And Detoxification
Water is essential in removing toxins from the body, whether it is via urination or sweating. Water also helps flush toxins from your vital organs, carry nutrients to your cells and ensure moisture for the ears, throat and nose. A general rule of thumb for water consumption per day is eight, 8-oz. glasses, according to MayoClinic.com.
Fresh Or Reconstituted
Reconstituted lemon juice is made by replenishing lemon juice concentrate with water, according to Linda Amendt in her book "Blue Ribbon Preserves." In many cases, commercial reconstituted lemon juice will contain preservatives and other additives you want to avoid. Amendt recommends only using fresh lemon juice when adding to water, recipes or meals to garner the full benefits since many nutrients break down during the concentration process.
Health Benefits
Lemon and water help in weight loss and maintenance as they help to facilitate digestion. Lemon water may also help to control high blood pressure, reduce respiratory complications, purify the blood due to its liver cleansing properties and even help to reduce a fever by stimulating perspiration, according to Phyllis Balch in the book "Prescription for Dietary Wellness."
References
- "The Lemon Juice Diet"; Theresa Cheung; 2010
- MedlinePlus: Vitamin C
- MayoClinic.com: How Much Water Should You Drink a Day
- "Prescription for Dietary Wellness"; Phyllis Balch; 2003
- "Blue Ribbon Preserves"; Linda Amendt; 2001
Member Comments