Whilst we love good old filtered water, we also enjoy mixing it up with infused water recipes – just check out our winter inspired wonder drinks for inspiration. As the cooler months continue, however, going back to basics with a classic combination could unlock many more plus-points for your health and wellbeing.

Lemon water has been the go-to alternative to water for as long as we can remember. The combination can even be traced back centuries thanks to its uses in traditional Chinese medicine. This year, lemon water is making a comeback. Read on to discover some of the benefits of drinking lemon water can bring.

Ward off colds and flu

During autumn and winter, lemon water can be particularly beneficial. At this time of year, there are all kinds of nasties going around, with colds, flu and other seasonal ailments affecting individuals of all ages.

Here Dr Axe shares more about the contents of lemon water and reveals one particular vitamin saviour in the process:

“Lemons are loaded with health benefits, and they’re considered a great vitamin C food source. In fact, just one cup of fresh lemon juice provides 187 per cent of your daily recommended serving of vitamin C — take that, oranges! Lemon juice also offers up a healthy serving of potassium, magnesium and copper.”

Vitamin C’s immunity-boosting qualities are no secret. In the past, lemons were a key remedy for the now rare condition scurvy due to their high vitamin C content.

These days, the vitamin C found in lemons is more commonly used to relieve symptoms of colds and flu. It has also been proven to lower the risk of catching a common cold.

As a result, it’s a drink that’s relied on by marathon runners as they face the elements and associated temperature extremes for long periods of time.

Feel happier and healthier

Energy levels are boosted by drinking lemon water. It’s a great way to start the day, with those replacing their morning drink of tea or coffee with lemon water reaping the rewards of feeling awake and energised minus their usual caffeine crash.

Your mood and stress levels will be positively impacted with an energising drink of lemon water meaning you can face the day as your happiest and healthiest self.

Manage your weight

Lemon water features in many detoxes and diets, and for good reason. As well as providing complete hydration, it can suppress your appetite and limit the cravings that make losing weight difficult.

Each glass of lemon water generally contains just six calories, which is significantly less than other beverages such as fruit juice, fizzy drinks, and energy drinks.

Water weight can also be reduced by drinking lemon water regularly, with digestion and waste removal improved and less bloating occurring.

Leave your skin glowing

The benefits felt on the inside will be seen on the outside when drinking lemon water. Vitamin C, and the antioxidants it contains, unlocks a number of fabulous advantages for your skin.

Collagen production is boosted to reduce fine lines and wrinkles leaving your skin looking fresher and better than ever before. Discover more about the skin benefits of water.

Want to give lemon water a try? Whatever recipe you use, make sure you choose filtered water for the tastiest and healthiest option.