Lemon is a naturally tart fruit which may be consumed in its raw form, or added as a flavoring agent to sweet and savory dishes, as well as beverages. Lemon consumption as a weight-loss aid is still under debate, but there is no denying that it offers a bounty of healthful benefits. Consult with a medical professional before beginning a weight-loss program.
Thermogenic Properties
Ann Louise Gittleman, PhD, author of "Fat Flush Foods," notes the metabolism-boosting thermogenic properties of lemon. According to a 2008 article published in "The Journal of Clinical Biochemistry and Nutrition," lemons contain polyphenols, which improves the fat oxidizing activities of the enzyme, acyl-CoA oxidase, in the liver and fat tissue. The polyphenols may also prevent sharp blood-glucose fluctuations, which often lead to food cravings. A 2006 article published in "Obesity" notes that oxidative stress in the liver may lead to weight gain. Lemons contain flavonoids, which help combat oxidative stress.
Natural Diuretic
Diuretics may help to improve kidney function by transferring excess sodium into the urine for excretion. This results in the elimination of harmful toxins that have accumulated in the body over an extended period of time, and a decrease in water weight. Purdue University's Julia F. Morton states that lemon juice is a well-known diuretic; however, scientific research is lacking to validate this claim.
Vitamin C
A 2005 study published in "The Journal of the American College of Nutrition" concluded that vitamin C, or ascorbic acid, may help to promote healthy weight loss. According to the study, led by Carol S. Johnston, PhD, individuals with an adequate intake of vitamin C oxidized 30 percent more fat than those lacking in the nutrient. A vitamin C deficiency, based on the results of the study, may be responsible for an individual's inability to lose fat. Lemons are naturally rich in vitamin C and may also help to improve the liver's ability to break down fat, according to Gittleman.
Considerations
Lemons are more acidic than oranges, and their acidity may lead to medical complications, such as erosion of tooth enamel, ulcers or excessive blood thinning. While lemons certainly have a place in a healthy diet plan, only a well-balanced diet rich in nutrients and regular physical activity can ensure a permanent loss in fat, not just water. Furthermore, additional research is needed to adequately prove the efficacy of lemon juice as a weight loss agent.
References
- "The Fat Flush Foods"; Ann Louise Gittleman; 2004
- "Journal of the American College of Nutrition"; Strategies for Healthy Weight Loss: From Vitamin C to the Glycemic Response; Carol S. Johnston, Ph.D., FACN; June 2005
- "Journal of Clinical Biochemistry and Nutrition"; Lemon Polyphenols Suppress Diet-induced Obesity by Up-Regulation of mRNA Levels of the Enzymes Involved in β-Oxidation in Mouse White Adipose Tissue; Yoshiko Fukuchi, et al.; November 2008
- "Lipids"; Protective Effects of Lemon Flavonoids on Oxidative Stress in Diabetic Rats; Miyake Y, et al.; July 1998
- "Obesity"; Weight Gain Induced by High-Fat Feeding Involves Increased Liver Oxidative Stress; Milagro FI, et al.; July 2006
- Purdue University Department of Horticulture; Lemon; Julia F. Morton; 1987
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