Detoxifies the Liver
According to Naturalnews.com the citric acid in lemons helps maximize enzymatic function, which stimulates the liver. The high antioxidant content in lemons also aids with Phase 1 and Phase 2 liver detoxification, assisting the liver metabolise toxic compounds like caffeine and Ibuprofen, into less harmful versions so they can be excreted via the eliminatory organs of the body.

Balances Ph. Levels
It may seem like an oxymoron that lemons high in citric acid regulate Ph. levels; however they are one of the most highly alkalizing foods around. As a whole food, lemons are acidic, but once metabolised in the gut, they are alkali forming. Lowering the acidity of the body is a fabulous dietary regime we should all be trying to achieve. An acidic system is where many chronic disease states thrive, whereas an alkaline body equates to a healthy body.

Digestive Aid
Lemon water relieves the symptoms of indigestion, heartburn, bloating and burping. Lemons have a similar composition to stomach acids and aid the digestive process to help to eliminate waste more effectively. Lemons also encourage the liver to produce bile, which aids in the breakdown of food. Daily ingestion of lemon water prevents problems associated with constipation and diarrhea and ensures smooth and regular bowel function.

Boosts Immune System
Lemons and all other citrus fruits are high in Vitamin C, which is essential for proper immune function. Lemons are also high in potassium (higher levels than apples and grapes), which stimulates brain and nerve function, and is also good for heart health and blood pressure regulation.

Helps Curb Appetite
Lemons are high in pectin fibre, which help stave off hunger pangs and are great for colon health. Fibre creates a feeling of fullness and by feeling fuller for longer means you are less likely to snack and make poor food choices.

Hydrates the Lymph System and Prevents Adrenal Fatigue
Hydration is key for a healthy body and lemon water helps hydrate the lymphatic’s, prevent dehydration and adrenal fatigue. When the body is deeply dehydrated, it cannot function properly, leading to toxic buildup, stress and constipation. Aldosterone is a hormone secreted by the adrenal glands, which regulates water levels, and the concentration of minerals including sodium. Aldosterone is also responsible for regulating the stress response, so you want to keep this adrenal hormone happy, and well hydrated. J

Promotes Skin Repair
The high anti-oxidant content in lemons helps combat free radicals. Vitamin C promotes the production of collagen. Nutritionist Michelle Chevalley explains, “Lemons are high in Vitamin C which is required for the synthesis of amino acids into collagen. The job of collagen and connective tissue is to hold things tight and protect skin tissue.” Skin elasticity declines with age so boosting the diet with Vitamin C and foods high in anti-oxidants helps slow down the aging process, wrinkles and blemishes.

Cleanses the Urinary Tract
Lemon juice is a diuretic, which helps purify the urinary tract and keep it healthy. Daily ingestion of lemon water lowers the Ph. level of the urinary tract creating a slightly alkaline environment. An alkali system discourages the proliferation of bad bacteria, which is turn decreases the risk of UTI’s.

Promotes Healing
Vitamin C promotes wound healing and is an essential nutrient to maintain strong bones and teeth, tissue and cartilage. Vitamin C also assists with the removal of uric acid in the joints and calms inflammation in the body so is great for joint health and mobility.

Improves Overall Health and Wellbeing
Lemons are also high in potassium, an important mineral that works in unison with sodium for smooth electrical transmission in the brain. Depression, anxiety, fogginess and forgetfulness are often attributed to low potassium levels. Steady signals to the heart also rely on adequate potassium levels.

Promotes Fresh Breath and Helps Kick the Coffee Habit
Lemon juice is one of the most effective anti-bacterial and anti-viral foods provided by Mother Nature and is the perfect way to give the mouth a crisp, clean makeover. Try substituting your morning cup of coffee with a glass of lemon water. It creates a clean, fresh start to the day without the dreaded afternoon lull created by caffeine withdrawal.

Even though lemons doesn’t contain a mega dose of Vitamin C, small doses regularly is the way to go. B and C vitamins are water-soluble and cannot be stored in the body, so mega doses of vitamins in one go is just expensive pee.

Try regular consumption of lemon water today, simply squeeze half a lemon into a big glass of water and drink. It’s a refreshing addition to your regular hydration schedule. Drink 2-3 litres of fluid including water, lemon water and green tea everyday. A well-hydrated system ensures all body processes can work efficiently and is a great lifestyle choice working towards health and wellness now and for years to come.

Make great lifestyle choices today that your future self will thank you for.