The internet and social media headlines are filled with the benefits of drinking lemon water, and in particular how lemon water aids health and weight loss. We already know that drinking your 8 glasses of water a day can contribute to clear skin. Obviously lemon water has amazing cleansing properties, but just how does it help with weight loss?

Myth or miracle?

The fashion world has advocated the benefits of lemon water for as long as they have been in existence, as Prima explain, “Lemons are a natural diuretic, so will help to release water retention.”

It’s certainly true that banishing water retention contributes to weight loss and the feeling of wellbeing. However, the jury is still out on whether it’s actually burning off fat.

Science behind lemon

Fruit infused waters are not only beneficial but taste amazing too and with a whole host of flavours and combinations to choose from, why would you stick to sipping on a relatively boring lemon water all day long?

Lemons are known as an anionic food, which basically means they contain a higher number of negative ions than positive ions. Anionic foods emulate anionic fluids such as saliva, bile and stomach acid, which means lemons enhance the work of the digestive system. Similarly, lemons contain high levels of vitamin C and citric acid, which help in both the production of digestive juices and the digestion process.

The properties in lemon help rid your body of more than just toxins. Not only does the mix of lemon and water help with the reduction of gas and bloating, but the cleansing effect it has on the colon can contribute enormously to weight loss.

The lemon cleanse – health and weight loss

Whilst sucking peppery lemon flavoured liquid through a straw for 5 days solid isn’t everyone’s idea of a healthy diet plan, there are benefits. Lemon juice is a great adjunct for cleansing both the liver and the colon as well as boosting and fighting off many other ailments such as:

• Colds and flu – lemon comes in the top 10 of foods that help alleviate symptoms of cold and flu. Its antibacterial properties help soothe sore throats and reduce phlegm.
• Kidney stones – blending lemon juice and olive oil may sound pretty gross but there are indications that drinking this concoction first thing in the morning for 7 days can alleviate the symptoms. The acid in the lemon breaks down the stone and the oil helps the digestive system expel the stone.
• Fibroids – Detoxing with a lemon cleanse rids the body of excess toxins, hormones  and heavy metals  that can contribute to the growth of fibroids.

Make lemon water part of your daily routine

Quite simply, lemon water should be the first thing you drink upon waking, and the last thing you consume at night. It not only keeps your digestive system in good working order, and the common cold at bay, it also keeps your skin clear and reduces those hunger pangs.

It can also be drunk warm or cold, the different temperatures carrying their own set of benefits. The good news is that if you can’t stomach the taste of lemon, adding a tiny touch of honey won’t affect the beneficial properties at all, but you may need to recount your calorie intake!