Weight loss and firm skin, health benefits of lemon water

 

Suppression of internal fat

Lemon water helps with weight loss. Lemon water provides a feeling of fullness and enhances mitochondrial function, which aids in energy production and promotes smooth metabolism. In fact, a study at Oakland Children's Hospital in the United States found that among 173 overweight women, those who drank lemon water experienced greater reductions in weight and fat compared to those who did not. Additionally, polyphenols and pectin fiber contained in lemons influence fat metabolism, suppressing body fat. There are also studies that support this. According to research published in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, the polyphenols in lemons reduced levels of LDL cholesterol, commonly known as bad cholesterol.

Lemon water is also good for skin health. One lemon contains about 18.6 mg of vitamin C. The vitamin C in lemons helps reduce aging, skin wrinkles, dryness, and damage. It also aids collagen synthesis, enhancing skin elasticity. According to a study published in the Journal of Clinical Pharmacology, citrus fruits like lemons are rich in vitamin C and flavonoids, making them excellent for improving skin condition. Flavonoids have a remarkable calming effect when the skin becomes red due to ultraviolet rays and external harmful environments. Additionally, they inhibit melanin production, helping with skin whitening and making the skin appear brighter.

The method for making lemon water is as follows: wash the lemons thoroughly with baking soda or salt. To preserve vitamin C, do not cut the lemon with a knife; instead, squeeze the juice using a juicer. Vitamin C is easily lost when it comes into contact with metal ions such as iron, which can cause oxidation. The remaining lemon peel should be cut into pieces. It is recommended to remove the stem, pulp, and seeds of the lemon, as they can taste bitter. Add the freshly squeezed lemon juice to water, then add the lemon peels, and let it sit for about 6 hours before drinking. Steeping the lemon in hot water, especially above 95°C, can be more effective than lukewarm water. When lemons are steeped in water above 95°C, the production of the highest amount of antioxidants (substances that eliminate harmful active oxygen in the body) occurs.

However, even healthy lemon water can be harmful to the stomach if consumed in the morning. A lower pH indicates higher acidity, and lemons have an acidity level of about 2. Therefore, eating lemons on an empty stomach can stimulate the stomach lining with their acidic components. Repeatedly drinking lemon water on an empty stomach can damage the stomach lining, increasing the risk of developing stomach diseases. For the same reason, tangerines, which also have high acidity, should be consumed with caution on an empty stomach, as they can increase the risk of reflux esophagitis, stomach ulcers, and heartburn.