For as long as I can remember, even before I became a certified nutritionist I've been recommending this morning habit. It's my daily ritual and something that I always recommend.
This video post is solely dedicated to the benefits of lemon and water and all the questions I get about this wonderful health habit.
Drinking freshly squeezed lemon and water first thing in the morning, on an empty stomach has many benefits. Learn about them in my video and below where I've listed them for you!
Be sure to watch until the end of the video where I review some of the most frequently asked questions about lemon and water from "will it hurt the enamel of my teeth", to "what temp should the water be".
Health Benefits Of Lemon & Water
Lemon juice helps to stimulate your digestive fire. This means it increases the production of hydrochloric acid (HCl). The major role of HCl is to activate pepsinogen (not digest food), which now becomes known as pepsin (an enzyme) and digests protein. HCl helps to kill bacteria, parasites, viruses that enter with the food. So you can see the importance of HCl in the digestive process. Taking a drug to inhibit HCl production is totally counterproductive to healthy digestion! Here are 7 Natural Solutions to Heartburn.
When you have a slow moving gut due to low acid and enzymes, this slows your whole digestive process and can result in constipation (having less than one bowel movement a day). How do you end up with low HCl and enzymes? There are many probable causes but poor diet and stress are the two most common reasons. Drinking lemon and water helps promote good quality bowel movement. You'll see for yourself! :)
Sounds gross, I know, but lemon juice stimulates the liver’s secretion of bile. Bile, along with fiber, is a fantastic carrier of toxins. So when you have a bowel movement stimulated by drinking lemon and water, you are more likely to eliminate waste products.
More often then not, I recommend drinking lemon and water on an empty stomach but it can also be used as a remedy for bloating. Add some fresh ginger and you’ve got at the perfect anti-bloat tea, or you might like my Turmeric Ginger Tea!
Lemon water cleanses and detoxifies the liver by increasing the liver’s detoxifying enzymes. Your liver is absolutely essential to your health and well-being. It has more than five hundred functions, many of them involved with detoxification – and if you're wondering why detoxification is so important, you can learn why over here or learn more in my book, Joyous Detox!
An acidic body is essentially a magnet for disease, and cancer cells thrive in an acidic environment. Lemon juice aids in making the body more alkaline, just like leafy green veggies—the opposite of acidic. (Although lemon contains citric acid, it does not create acidity in the body.) Lemon enhances your digestive secretions so that acidic wastes are eliminated more effectively. Food is medicine!
Natural cure for heartburn
I realize this sounds counter-intuitive, but the majority of people with heartburn are actually under-producing stomach acid. When you strengthen your digestive secretions with lemon and water, you may notice an incredible improvement in your heartburn.
After a few weeks of lemon and water, you may notice your skin is brighter, and if you suffer from skin blemishes, you may notice a remarkable improvement. The health of your digestive system and your liver is directly related to the health of your skin because in order to heal your skin, you must start within! This is a common recommendation I give in my Eczema Healing Kit, on top of many other dietary, supplemental and lifestyle suggestions.
Have a question? Comment below.
Have a joyous day!
Joy
What are your thoughts on using a drop of doTerra essential oil in my daily lemon water instead of a lemon?
ReplyAs long as it's approved for taking internally, many essentials oils are not food safe.
Just wondering if Lime juice would work the same way? Also when we are travelling I take organic pure bottled lemon juice to avoid having to travel with fresh lemons.. is this OK?
ReplyWhat if the pre squeezed lemon juice is organic and in a glass bottle. Is that okay? I'm having a hard time finding juicy lemons recently, so it's a bit of a waste of money. They're so dried up inside.
ReplyYes, that's the next best option.
You mention to have lemon water first thing in the morning on an empty stomach. How long should I wait before eating breakfast after drinking the lemon water?
ReplyI would be keen to know as well - until now I've waited for about half an hour, but I'm often late for work because of that!
Hi Joy! In the mornings I drink my lemon and water, then I juice, then I have a tea with my breakfast. So many steps! I find myself in the kitchen all morning :) Is there any way I can combine my lemon with my green vegetable juice instead of drinking all this liquid separately? Or what about if I have my tea first (usually green tea), with half a lemon and a bit of honey? Will these combinations still be as beneficial?
ReplyYes you can definitely combine your lemon juice with your green veggie juice in the a.m. As a side note, lemons enhance the absorption of antioxidants in green tea!
Hello Joy Discovered your blog and love it! Especially since you are from Canada and I can find the products/ingredients you recommend! Yay! Also got your book and starting to go through it. My question regarding the lemon water is can I pre-squeeze my lemon the night before so it's ready in the morning? Or can I squeeze a few lemons and keep it in the fridge and just pour the amount I need in the morning? Or will the lemon loose its nutritional qualities? Thanks
ReplyThanks so much. Glad you are loving my blog and finding the products I recommend! You can definitely pre-squeeze the night before, but fresh is always best of course! Just keep in mind it is not going to be quite as nutrient-dense especially in regards to the vitamin C.
Hello, With regard to the 10 day detox, what would you recommend to eat when going out for dinner to a restaurant? Thank you!
ReplyHi Kristan, Eating out while on a detox can be rather tricky. For this reason, I usually try to postpone my restaurant dinners until after the 10 days are up. That said, for more health-conscious and accommodating restaurants, it can be done, you'll just have to read the menu carefully and possibly ask questions to determine whether there are any detox no-nos on the menu. Salads are usually the easiest option to make detox-friendly. If you're in the Toronto area, Rawlicious is a great detox-friendly place to eat out. Kate - Joyous Health Team
I love using lemon water to detoxify every morning. It's one of the easiest and most delicious ways to be healthy:) www.westingwellness.com
Replyalso good for preventing/dissolving kidney stones. I've heard that body absorbs cold water better than warm or tepid.
ReplyIs it counterproductive to have a cup of coffee immediately after drinking lemon and water or how long should you wait before you drink your coffee (can't give it up). Thank you.
ReplyHi Jan, Sadly, it is a little bit counterproductive. Joy has a great section in her book on detoxing from coffee, but until you're ready for that day, I'd recommend waiting at least 30 minutes between your lemon and water and your cup of coffee. Kate - Joyous Health Team
Hi Joy, just found your site and saw this post and wanted to know what do you think of using the True Lemon product? I travel a lot and can't take fresh lemons everywhere.
ReplyHi Stacey, We're not familiar with their crystallization process, so we'll have to err on the side of caution and say fresh is the way to go. Kate - Joyous Health Team
Hello There, How are you? I just want to ask if I can drink whole milk or have my cereal w/milk after I drink my lemon water? Or should I wait a few minutes to half a hour or more?? Would it cause a bad reaction when lemon juice and milk are combined? Can I get sick?? I'm sorry I'm just concerned about the reaction of lemon with whole milk and other types of milk such as..... almond/coconut milk. Hoping you can help me pretty please :) :) Thank you for your time, it means very much.
ReplyHi LunaDanielle, I like to wait 15-30 minutes between lemon and water and breakfast if I can, to give my digestive juices time to get going. A shorter timeframe between the two won't hurt you, it just may not be as effective. If you tolerate dairy well and are able to consume whole milk without issue that's fine, we just find that most people tend to tolerate almond or coconut (or even non-cow dairy like goat's milk) better. Kate - Joyous Health Team
what do you recommend for swollen ankles and other water retention.
ReplyThat really depends on the root cause -- ie. pregnancy, inflammation, kidney problems. Even though it may sound counter-intuitive, drinking water helps your body retain less water. Usually your body will hold on to more water if you have too much sodium in your diet and too little hydration from water. Additionally, it can also be due to weight gain which is why many pregnant women suffer from it. It's hard to give advice without knowing your full health history but I hope that helps!
Drinking more water in general has changed my life! What I noticed almost immediately was just a big boost in my energy levels. I was so inspired I wanted to contribute some how in a fun way, so I made a funny and simple tee shirt with a play on words that I thought others might like. If anyone is interested in checking it out, please just click on the website I've linked. Thanks!
Replycan I drink lemon water all day everyday without repercussions?
ReplyHi Camille, It really depends on what you mean by "all day, every day." It is possible to overdo even a good thing like lemon and water (or even just water) if it's consumed really in excess. Over here at Joyous Health, we recommend everything in moderation. Kate - Joyous Health Team
Great information.
ReplyThank you for the brilliant video, it helped clarify some doubts.
ReplyHi Joy, I've been having lemon-water mornings for quite some time and am loving the benefits. I just watched this video and wanted to let you know that I spoke with my dentist about it and was given the go-ahead for the lemon water, but told NOT to brush my teeth immediately afterwards. Brushing right away contributes to enamel erosion and it's best to wait 30-60mins. Eating cheese after an acidic meal or drink can help to neutralize it.
ReplyHow long should I let the lemon sit in the water before drinking it, and just to be clear is it put in by slicing it up, or should I squeeze the juice into the water? Can I just have a pitcher in the refrigerator overnight with water and lemons? Thank you for any information, I really want to give this a shot.
ReplyHi Frank, You squeeze the lemon juice into the water. Once the lemon's in there, it's good to go! You could make a pitcher and put it in the fridge, but the fresher the lemon and water is, the more effective it will be. Kate - Joyous Health Team
You talk about hydrochloric acid. Citrus does tend to have a lot of acidity. Wouldn't that actually make it something to avoid, especially for people with a fair amount of heartburn and acid reflux?
ReplyHi Jenn, Although citrus itself is acidic, it has an overall alkalinizing effect in the body. However, some people are sensitive to citrus, and in that case, we'd recommend using apple cider vinegar and water instead. Kate - Joyous Health Team
Wonderful video reagarding lemon and water. I would like to know when a person start drinking lemon and water. Approximately how soon will they notice glowing skin?
ReplyHi Cynthia, It'll vary from person to person, depending on factors like your diet and stress level. You may see results in a few days, or it may take a few weeks. It's also important to note that while lemon and water is a great habit, it's not the only factor in skin health. You'll also want to make sure you're eating health-promoting foods as well. Kate - Joyous Health Team
Hello, I love this site. I do like to drink lemon water but usually in the afternoon or evening. Will I still get benefits?
ReplyYes definitely! Thanks for stopping by!
Hi I have two questions. I have been drinking lemon water for about a week and simply love it. It definitely has replaced my morning tea. But I used to drink at least 6 cups of tea a day. Can I have at least 4 cups a day, its only midday and I've already had two cups and craving the third. My second question Is can I squeeze a whole bunch of lemons and keep in the fridge as I do work and not enough time to do this or can I freeze them in ice cube trays, as its said to be that frozen is as good as the day its bought. Thanks Haseena
ReplyHi Hassiena, Are you referring to how many cups of lemon and water or how many cups of tea you can drink? In our opinion, when it comes to lemon and water, fresh is always best. Kate - Joyous Health Team
What a great post, I had no idea that lemon juice had a direct link to the liver and helps elliminate toxins. Thanks for the great insights here.
ReplyYou're very welcome! Kate - Joyous Health Team
Regarding the lemon and water, could I also add a small amount of stevia or natural local honey to the drink?
ReplyHi Sandy, Between the two, we'd recommend adding honey over stevia. Kate - Joyous Health Team
Does lemons work as well when you just slice them and leave them in water or is best to squeeze it?
ReplyHi Eldith, It's best to squeeze them in. Kate - Joyous Health Team
Hi, just wondering is it ok to squeeze your lemon the night before , so when you wake up you can drink it? That way it gives you at least half an hour to digest it before a meal?! Thanks Jenny
ReplyHi Jenny, Fresh is always better, and it only takes a few seconds to squeeze it in. Kate - Joyous Health Team
I have oil on the water after a poo, loose bowel after eating.
ReplyI drink lemon watering drp I drink lemon water every morning, I wait 20 min then I have my coffee. Is drinking coffee undoing the benifits of drinking thermonuclear water?
ReplyHi Nancy, I'm going to guess you mean lemon and water rather than thermonuclear water (which I don't recommend drinking). Drinking coffee can be hard on your digestive system, so it will counter some of the benefits of lemon and water. You might want to consider switching to green tea or a coffee substitute like chicory, which is easier on your system. Kate - Joyous Health Team
I have just recently found out about the benefits of that lemons have on a person's whole self... I have many issues that I am in search of answers for.. Obesity, high cholesterol, fibromyalgia, osteoarthritis just to name a few.. I have been told and I have read that lemons have many health benefits and have a possible link to helping in healing some of my problems. I have a couple questions that I have been struggling with lemon in the morning on an empty stomach you say is great.. Do you recommend raw lemon without water for how long until you have something else like breakfast? How many lemons a day is appropriate for liver and kidney detoxification? Warm lemon in the morning is also good however does not have to be all day or can you have ice during the day with your lemon water? Thank you for your time I appreciate any input that you have:-)
ReplyHow long after drinking my lemon and water should I eat breakfast and how much water should I have with the lemon, i.e half a pint
ReplyHi Ursula, A tall glass of water (300-400 mL) should be enough. You'll want to try and wait at least 15 minutes before eating. Kate - Joyous Health Team
Joy, you are adorable. Thank you for this wonderful video about the benefits of lemon water! I really learned a lot. Interesting how we are so close to the "truth" about healthful eating yet, miss the fine print; like body-temp water. Feel free to add me to your e-mail list. Susan B Albuquerque, NM
ReplyHello, I take a preworkout supplement (with caffeine) when I first get up in the morning, how long should I wait after drinking my warm lemon water before taking my preworkout powder and exercising?
ReplyHi Morgan, You'll want to wait at least 15 minutes, 30 if you can. Kate - Joyous Health Team
Great video,lots of good info,lemon water,how much lemon to how much water?,thanks.
ReplyHi Joseph, The juice of 1/2 a lemon in a tall (over 250ml) glass of water should do the trick. Kate - Joyous Health Team
I take synthroid first thing in the morning on an empty stomach and then have to wait 30 min before eating. Can I drink the lemon water during these 30 min or do I have to wait until after?
ReplyHi Anne, I'd check with the healthcare practitioner who prescribed the Synthroid to determine if this is okay. Kate - Joyous Health Team
Can I eat immediately after my lemon drink each morning? Can I incorporate my morning green tea with my morning lemon water? Thanks
ReplyHi Dominic, We recommend taking lemon and water on its own and then waiting at least 15 minutes before drinking or eating anything else. Kate - Joyous Health Team
Never saw an answer regarding whether LIMES can be used in place of LEMONS? Thanks!
ReplyHi Chuck, They can, but because they're smaller, you might need to use a whole lime instead of 1/2 a lemon. Kate - Joyous Health Team
Hi Joy & Team, I love watching your segments on S&C! I have been drinking lemon water in the morning for a while now. However, I am still uncertain on the following and wondered if you would please shed some light: - Should I always opt for organic lemons, or would using regular lemons mean drinking some of the toxins from the rind? - Any concerns with using too much lemon in one cup of water? With using, say, half of a larger lemon, sometimes my lemon water tastes tart enough to be lemonade. - Do I still reap the benefits of drinking lemon water every other day or even two days a week, instead of everyday (as I have been doing)? Thanks in advance!
ReplyHi Helen, Here are our thoughts on your questions: - Organic is always best, but citrus fruits are generally okay to purchase conventional if you're looking to save some money. - No concern with too much lemon, but as you noted, the taste might just be a little on the sour side. - You'll still get benefits from a few days a week, but doing it every day will benefit you even more. Best regards, Kate - Joyous Health Team
Is it okay to add organic raw honey to your lemon tea?
ReplyTo lemon tea, sure. But first thing in the morning, we'd recommend starting with just lemon and water and saving the honey for later. Kate - Joyous Health Team
is it o.k. if i squeeze a few lemons and keep them in a jar in the fridge, or do i have to squeeze one fresh lemon every day?
ReplyHi Eve, We recommend using a fresh lemon each day, to get the freshest, most nutrient-dense lemon juice possible. Kate - Joyous Health Team
I love lemon in my water. Everyday i drink it. I cut up a slice and put it in my water and just keep adding water to my cup with same lemon for two days then switch new slice. I have been doing so for the past year. I havent been sick(well not as sick) flu, colds, etc.... Just wondering if its ok to drink it everyday as i am doing.?
ReplyHi Sonia, Sure! As long as you find it beneficial, drink away! Kate - Joyous Health Team
Can I put reg tap water in a jar over night and make lemon water in the morning Oh and I'm 73 years old
ReplyHi Rose, If regular tap water is what you have access to, feel free to use it! Kate - Joyous Health Team
Is this ok for diabetics and people with high blood pressure
ReplyHi Sharron, We can't see any reason why it wouldn't be, but when in doubt, it's always best to check with your primary healthcare practitioner. Kate - Joyous Health Team
How long should I wait before I eat after drinking lemon water and can I eat two pieces of garlic with it
ReplyHi Sharron, We'd recommend waiting at least 15 mins after lemon water before eating or drinking anything else. Kate - Joyous Health Team
How many times a day can I drink the lemon and water
ReplyHi Sharron, As many times as you want! :) Kate - Joyous Health Team
Hello. I found your video very informative, and with all my digestive issues I'd like to try lemon water in the morning. I have one question though. Can I take the lemon water with my thyroid hormone pill (I take this pill every morning on an empty stomach)? I have to wait 30 min after taking my pill before I can eat. I don't want to take the lemon water, then wait 15 min to take my pill. Any thoughts? Thank you!
ReplyHi Rose! That's a tricky one. I don't see any direct issues with the lemon water and medications but I would double check with your physician. My suggestions would be for you to try incorporating lemon water into your routine 15 minutes before eating to see if that helps boost your digestive system. Whether it's in the morning before breakfast or just before lunch and dinner. Give it a try and see if it helps :) Heather- Joyous Health team
Hello I was wondering if it's ok to use frozen lemons juice! I always get a huge bag of organic lemons from my mother in law's tree in her backyard, when we visit. I find I could never use all the lemons before they go bad so I started freezing them in ice cube trays. If it's ok, how many frozen lemon cubes would you recommend for 10oz of water? Thanks in advance for your response!
ReplyHi Stacey! I think that would work wonderfully and what a great way to avoid wasting your mother in law's lemons. I'd say to aim for the juice of 1/2 of a lemon, so depending on the size of your ice cube tray, 1-2 should do the trick. P.S- I've always wanted my own lemon tree! Heather- Joyous Health team
Hi Joy Just wondered how soon I can eat/drink after drinking lemon water. Have a great day Ali
ReplyHi Ali! I'd give it 15-30 minutes for best results :) Heather- Joyous Health Team
Thank you, for the information on lemon juice but my question is it alright to use the lemon juice in the little lemon looking container or is that the same as you had mention.
ReplyHi Carolyn! We think fresh lemon juice is always best :) Heather- Joyous Health Team
How long should you wait to eat or drink after drinking lemon water in the morning?
ReplyHey Gloria! 15-20 minutes is the general rule of thumb :) Heather- Joyous Health Team
It is so refreshing to see someone who truly cares about the health of people and are not making us go through a sales pitch to get great information. Thank you so much.
ReplyOne thing I wanted to ask. Can you add the ginger to the morning lemon water or should I do that later on.
Thanks so much, Donna! Heather- Joyous Health Team
Hello Joy! I have a question- is it ok to prepare a bottle of lemon and water or vinegar and water ahead of time like a day before and store in the fridge so its easy to grab in the morning? Jane.
ReplyHey Jane! Absolutely, but I would suggest drinking it once it reaches room temperature (cold drink are very constricting). Happy sipping :) Heather- Joyous Health Team
After taking lemon drink before breakfast i experience frequent urination, is it good taking it after supper also? thanks for advice and keep me updated
ReplyHey Sammy! Try taking it before supper to help boost digestion (just as you're doing in the morning). Glad to hear you're enjoying lemon water as part of your routine :) Heather- Joyous Health team
You mentioned brushing teeth after having lemon water if someone is concerned about the acid attach. Best approach is to rinse mouth with warm water. You should never brush your teeth directly after having anything acidic for at least 20+ minutes. Your mouth will be in an acidic state and this could cause you to move the acid around on the teeth creating minute etching in the enamel, thereby weakening teeth and eventually making teeth susceptible to breakdown.
ReplyThanks, Marie! Heather- Joyous Health Team
Is it safe to drink lemon water every morning while pregnant?
ReplyAbsolutely! Unless of course you are allergic/sensitive to lemons :) Heather- Joyous Health Team
Is lime juice as good as lemon juice?
ReplyHi Vicki! Limes work just fine but are slightly lower in vitamin C. Heather- Joyous Health Team
The jar you were holding up was how many ounces?
ReplyHi Gaylene! The jar is about 8 oz :) Heather- Joyous Health Team
How soon after I drink lemon water in an on empty stomach can I have breakfast ...can it be immediately ??
ReplyHi Barbara! We suggest waiting 15-20 minutes or so, just to give your digestion a little kickstart! Heather- Joyous Health Team
Thank you Joy for the outstanding information. I have just recently starting drinking Apple Cider Vinegar. I also put in a teaspoon of Lemon juice and water that in mix all in a small amount of water. I was concerned about bottled lemon juice that I have been using but do not trust. I will now use fresh lemon juice from now own. Thanks. Hope to hear more from you. To your Health!!! Daniel Mitchell Tuscaloosa, Alabama
ReplyPerfect! All the best Daniel!
Is lime juice just as good?
ReplyYou can definitely swap out limes for lemons! They are similar, but limes have slightly less vitamin C. Enjoy! Heather- Joyous Health Team
Good Morning. I regularly drink lemon water on an empty stomach, however I also drink Miralax and Essiac Tonic in the same cup. The product also suggest on an empty stomach. Is this okay to do?
ReplyHi Naomi. I think this should work just fine but perhaps you should try reaching out to the supplements company to make sure. All the best, Heather- Joyous Health Team
Do you have to drink lemon water all day to get the effects or just every morning. Thanks and have Great weekend
ReplyDefinitely not all day, first thing in the morning is ideal. Hope that helps!
Which is beter in a probiotic supplement product bifidobacterium lactis or bifidobacterium bifidum. to help with digestion and stomach issues. Thanks and have a great day :)
ReplyHi Annie. It can really be case dependent, but in general we recommend choosing a probiotic with multiple strains of bacteria like this one: http://www.seroyal.ca/?SID=hgc0ojv946pm62adh97qgmdnb0&___store=seroyal_ca I hope that helps! Heather- Joyous Health Team
How long do I wait to drink something else after after drinking my lemon water?
ReplyI usually give it about 15-20 minutes to work it's magic before consuming anything else :) Heather- Joyous Health Team
I have had a skin condition for over six years that has been diagnosed as scabies to folliculitis. All blood tests have come back negative. And all prescriptions including Ivermectin have only worked for a short time before I have to start another dose. Once I stop the Stromectol the breakout resumes. I have even tried using a near-infrared light, but that also has been a temporary fix. Is there a food that I may consume to kill whatever is eating me alive from the inside-out for all these years? I even feel a piercing sensation in my eyes and noticed that my eyesight has been affected. Most recently I started fasting one day a week and drinking two gallons of water a day.
ReplyHi Rachel. I'm sorry to hear this. It would be best to seek the help of a qualified health care practitioner (perhaps an Naturopathic Doctor) who can take your health history and current situation into full consideration. Joy does provide 1-on-1 nutritional consultations if you're looking for a personalized dietary approach to addressing your concerns: http://www.joyoushealth.com/nutrition-services/ Wishing you all the best, Heather- Joyous Health Team
How do you prevent the lemon water from making your teeth sensitive :) thanks
ReplyHey Annie. I've never experienced this, but perhaps avoiding brushing your teeth directly after drinking lemon water could help. The acidity of the lemon and the abrasiveness toothpastes and brushing may be a bad combination and could contribute to the thinning of the enamel on your teeth and promote sensitivity. I hope that helps! Heather- Joyous Health Team
Is it ok to drink lemon water immediately after drinking g coffee? I drink coffee in the morning to wake me up and when I am done that I drink lemon water through out most of the day.
ReplyHi Jack! We suggest drinking it first thing in the morning for best results. Try changing up your routine to include water & lemon before your coffee and see how you feel :) Heather- Joyous Health Team
Hi can I make a big jar of lemon water and keep in the refrigerator for the convenience or do I have to use fresh lemons every day?
ReplyHi Linton. Fresh is always best as vitamin C can be easily destroyed when exposed to oxygen! Heather- Joyous Health Team
Hi Joy! Is it okay if I drink my coffee after the lemon water or the other way way around? I'm usually short short on time and way too rushed to take my time properly.
ReplyCan you make lemon water in advance and keep it in the fridge for the week? Or it needs to be freshly squeezed everyday? Any tips like freezing the lemon juice and adding the cubes to your water? Thanks! :)
ReplyHey Janelle! Making the lemon water in advance or freezing lemon cubes is definitely an option, but it might just have less Vitamin C when you actually go to drink it. I would suggest having it freshly squeezed each day if possible :) Rachel - Joyous Health Team
Hi there i love breakfast tea and normally have it first thing the morning but I'm trying to change that. If you drink lemon and water first thing in the morning and an hour or two later you have a coffee or a cup of tea does it counteract the effects of detoxing or cleaning the colon? Thanks
ReplyHey Victoria! Nope, it won't counteract anything! The point of drinking the water instead of tea or anything else first thing in the morning is to help flush out the metabolic waste products we produce throughout the night. If we're starting our day with something dehydrating like tea or coffee, it's not going to help getting things moving. So I think that's a great of swapping the breakfast tea for water :) Baby steps though, just take it day by day. It doesn't have to happen overnight! Rachel - Joyous Health Team
Hello I have gallstones in my gallbladder will drinking lemon water first thing in the morning help the gallstones to disslove please reply back i am in such alot of pain and do not want to have my gallbladder taken out thanks
ReplyHey Gazala, It certainly helps to support liver and gallbladder health, but like with anything, we suggest working with your natural health care practitioner before making any changes to your dietary habits with any condition. Hope you feel better soon! Rachel - Joyous Health Team
WILL FRESH LIMES BE AS EFFECTIVE AS LIMES?
ReplyHey Anna! Freshly squeezed lime is best (if possible) to ensure all of the Vitamin C and other nutrients are in tact :) Rachel - Joyous Health Team
Joy How long after I drink lemon and water on empty stomach can I drink or eat my breakfast? It is crunch time in the morning.
ReplyHey Ida! Ideally about 15-20 minutes just to allow the digestive juices to begin flowing, but of course, if you're tight for time, you can enjoy your breakfast right after the lemon water. As long as the lemon and water is the first thing you consume on an empty stomach - that's what matters :) Rachel - Joyous Health Team
Replyenjoyed your video.
ReplyHey Eddie! Thanks so much :) Glad to hear you were able to take away a lot from it! Rachel - Joyous Health Team
I have lemon water with a spoon of apple cider vinegar every mornig after a cup of tea.will it help me lose weight
ReplyHey Raakheeahuja! That's amazing! It can definitely help support weight loss but there are other factors that play into it too. You might enjoy reading this article Joy wrote about weight loss: https://www.joyoushealth.com/14437-blog-6-ways-to-lose-weight-instead-of-dieting Rachel - Joyous Health Team
Starting today (11 Mar 2017) each morning I plan on drinking a warm glass of water with lemon hoping it will keep my sugar level within a normal range of 80 to 140. Today my sugar level was 157. After I drank a glass of warm water mixed lemon, two hours later my sugar level was 87!! Great!
ReplyHey William, WOW! That's amazing! Good for you :) So happy to hear it's working for you so quickly! Rachel - Joyous Health Team
Thanks for the great info. Can you add a little honey or organic sugar to lemon and water and still get benefits? Second, is lemon, honey, salt and spring water a good substitutefor an electrolyte replacement?? Thank you!
ReplyHey BD! Yes, you could definitely still soak up the benefits but I wouldn't count that towards your daily water intake since sugar (even natural sweetener) can have a dehydrating effect. That sounds like a great electrolyte option! You're welcome to try out Joy's Green Electrolyte Smoothie as well: https://www.joyoushealth.com/16550-blog-green-electrolyte-smoothie :) Rachel - Joyous Health Team
How long before breakfast can I drink the lemon
ReplyHey Rang! You can drink it right when you wake up and then enjoy breakfast 10-15 minutes later :) Rachel - Joyous Health Team
Can you eat after drinking the lemon an honey in morning like porridge
ReplyHi Douglas, yes you can definitely eat after drinking the lemon and water. It's best on an empty stomach and then wait a little bit... 10-20 minutes.
When do we eat after taking this drink?
ReplyHey Sujith,
You can eat right after, maybe just leaving about 5-10 minutes or so, but it's not necessary.
Rachel - Joyous Health Team
does it have to be first thing cause started having smoothies for lunch was thinking adding lemon to my smoothie thanks
ReplyHey Annie, Yes, having your lemon water on it's own before anything else is going to be more beneficial as its going to stimulate the secretion of your digestive juices that are needed to help break things down in that smoothie or whatever you consume next. Adding freshly squeezed lemon to your smoothie is still a great idea and very beneficial but it won't have the same effect digestion-wise as simply having lemon water alone on an empty stomach :) Rachel - Joyous Health Team
If I freeze and grate the lemon how much should I use?
ReplyHey Robyn! Using the lemon juice specifically versus the lemon zest is going to be more beneficial to stimulate the secretion of digestive juices. You can freeze freshly squeezed lemon if you're super tight on time, but typically, having it fresh is best to ensure the highest nutrient-density potential of the lemon! Hope that helps :) Rachel - Joyous Health Team
can we have brakfast immidiately after drinking the drink?
ReplyHey Sikder, Yes its typically okay :) 5-10 minutes would be ideal to allow the digestive juices to start secreting! Rachel - Joyous Health Team
Hi Joy, Thank you for the very informative video. How long after I drink my lemon water can I eat breakfast or have my morning tea? Thank you! Caroline
ReplyHey Caroline, There's no right or wrong amount of time, but if you want to give your digestive juices a bit of time to start secreting to help support overall digestion, I would give it 5-10 minutes! Rachel - Joyous Health Team
can i pre make the lemon water in a closed container for the week.
ReplyHey Corinne! It's best to make it fresh to retain the vitamin C as preparing in advance would cause the vitamin C levels to decrease. But do the best you can, of course :) I know it's not always easy to enjoy fresh. Rachel - Joyous Health Team
How long after I drink my lemon water in the morning, should I wait to have anything else to eat or drink? I have never been sure about that. Thx.
ReplyHey Suzanne, There's no right or wrong amount of time, but if you want to give your digestive juices a bit of time to start secreting to help support overall digestion, I would give it 5-10 minutes! Rachel - Joyous Health Team
Hey Joy, Thank you very much for ur valuable info about having lemon water early in the morning, 1 small question is that i wanted to know what is the time difference required to be maintained before having breakfast
ReplyHey Dhiraj, So glad you enjoyed this article! We would recommend waiting about 10 minutes after consuming your lemon water to consume food as that will provide enough time to stimulate digestive juices and prepare them for digestion :) Rachel - Joyous Health Team
Preferable hot or cold water?
ReplyHey Nancy, Room temperature works, but hot water is beneficial too! Whichever you have easier access to that you can stay compliant with for a longer period of time. Rachel - Joyous Health Team
Hi, loved the lemon water video. After you drink the lemon water are you not supposed to eat for a certain period of time to let your body absorve it? I usually have chamomile tea in the morning, is it ok to drink it right after the lemon water?
ReplyHey Leticia, So glad to hear you enjoyed it! There's no exact time of which you should or shouldn't consume anything after lemon water. If you're taking it for the sake of stimulating your digestive juices though to help support digestion, you may just want to wait about 10 minutes or so. Chamomile tea would be okay to drink after the lemon water, yes! :) Rachel - Joyous Health Team
How many minutes after drinking my lemon water can I have a cup of coffee?
ReplyHey Angie, There's no exact time, but just be mindful that coffee has a dehydrating effect. So while it's awesome that you are starting with a lemon water, you will have rehydrate with 2 cups of water for every cup of coffee! Rachel - Joyous Health Team
How soon after drinking warm lemon water must you wait before eat breakfast? One half hour or one hour?
ReplyHey Jorene! Even 10-15 minutes would be sufficient as your digestive juices will be flowing by then :) Rachel - Joyous Health Team
Idrink one cup of hot water with a squeeze lemon every morning. How long should I wait to take my pain medication which is supposed to be taken on an empty stomach also?
ReplyHey Donna! I would recommend taking your medication first followed by the lemon water about 10-15 minutes later :) Rachel - Joyous Health Team
What do you think of a mixture (blender) of whole lemons and ginger? I plan on trying this and adding to my morning water.
ReplyHey Tom, That sounds amazing! I would just make sure they are organic if you plan on doing that :) Also note that once you cut into fresh lemon, it will start to lose it's vitamin C concentration so it might be better to do in small batches. Rachel - Joyous Health Team
How long after drinking my lemon water should I wait to eat brakefast?
ReplyHey Lori, About 10-15 minutes should be sufficient to allow the digestive juices to secrete :) Rachel - Joyous Health Team
Can you use lime juice instead....I have a lime tree but not a lemon tree.....do you get the same benefits
ReplyHey Gill, Yes you could definitely use lime instead. Especially if they are fresh and as local as your backyard – nothing better! Their properties will differ slightly but fresh lime can still help to improve digestion. Rachel - Joyous Health Team
How long should you wait to have coffee with milk or breakfast after taking this in the morning ?
ReplyHey Sonia, I would say about 10-15 minutes to allow enough time for the digestive juices to secrete! :) Rachel - Joyous Health Team
Hi, once you have had a hot water and lemon drink. Do you need to wait a while or can you have a cup of normal black tea n milk 5 mins after or even a few minutes after????
ReplyHey Dave, There's no specific requirement of the amount of time but to allow the digestive juices to begin to secrete, we would recommend around 10-15 minutes :) Rachel - Joyous Health Team
Hi; I was just wondering how much lemon I must squeezing into the cup in the mornings? Im currently using half a lemon.
ReplyHey Justin, Half a lemon sounds great :) Rachel - Joyous Health Team
Hi Joy, Am new to your website - and love it by the way! Just wondering, if I am oil pulling - can I still take lemon in water after this? Thanks, Jodie
ReplyHey Jodie! Welcome :) So grateful to have you here. Yes, you definitely can. Just rinse with regular water afterward to prevent the lemon sitting ony our teeth and wearing on your enamel. Rachel - Joyous Health Team
I have to have acup of coffe in the morning first thing. I also take a thyroid pill for hypothyroidism- wondering if the lemon water can be taken after my thyroid pill andbe as affective
ReplyHey Julia! I would recommend doing the water before the coffee if anything (you don't want to be dehydrating an already dehydrated body upon waking ;) ) but make sure you are having the thyroid medication on an empty stomach. So thyroid medication > lemon water > coffee (if you must!) :) Rachel - Joyous Health Team
My doctor has me drinking lemon water every day to prevent kidney stones from coming back ---so far so good
ReplyHey Hugh! That's amazing :) I hope you're feeling the difference and benefits of it already! Rachel - Joyous Health Team
Just wondering, I noticed you didn't squeeze the lemon you just dropped it in. would squeezing it change anything???
ReplyHey Anita! As long as it leaves your water looking cloudy (due to the lemon) that should be enough :) Rachel - Joyous Health Team
How long should a person wait after drinking the warm lemon water before eating or drinking beverages including coffee. I'm a one a day cup of coffee drinker.
ReplyHey Teresa! We would recommend starting with the warm lemon water first thing, waiting about 15 minutes until anything else. Just make sure to fuel up again with 2 cups of water after the coffee as it has a dehydrating effect :) Rachel - Joyous Health Team
I workout first thing in the morning and drink a ton of water when I work out. Will I still get all the benefits if I drink lemon water after my workout and before my breakfast?
ReplyHey Lindsay, Yes, definitely! The lemon water is going to stimulate your digestive juices and prepare for digestion so as long as its before your meal, you will be set :) Rachel - Joyous Health Team
Love this, .I have dinner and a couple hours later-about4-I drink 1/2 lemon in 8 ounces room temperature water before bed,I think the benefits are great and especially love that it tackles bloating, am I doing it right? Zee
ReplyHey Zee, Yes - that's awesome! It would also be beneficial to do it in the morning before you eat, that way, your digestion is primed for the day :) Rachel - Joyous Health Team
Just wondering if you have to wait any length of time after drinking the lemon water in the morning, before consuming anything else.
ReplyHey Ruth, It's probably best to have it first thing when you wake up and then wait 10-15 minutes before eating but there is no specific time line to abide by. Hope that helps! Rachel - Joyous Health Team
Would this help with acid reflux and G.E.R.D.?
ReplyYes absolutely. Contrary to popular belief, most people have too little stomach acid and as a result, food doesn't get broken down properly and ferments causing gaseous products to push up through the esophagus. You can read more here: https://www.joyoushealth.com/2062-blog-heartburn-7-solutions-instead-of-pill-popping
Does lemon water help dissolve kidney stones? I read somewhere that mixing 1/2 cup concentrated lemon juice with 7 cups of water would be good for kidney stones?? Is concentrated lemon juice the same as lemon extract?
ReplyHey Mary, Dissolving kidney stones is more of a serious health issue which should be done under supervision of your natural health care practitioner. I would recommend staying away from quick-fixes or tricks as it can lead to further complications if it's not gone about correctly. Hope that helps! Rachel - Joyous Health Team
How soon after drinking lemon water in the morning can I️ drink my coffee?
ReplyHey Tatiana, There's no specific time but waiting about 5-10 minutes to allow your digestive juices to begin secreting would be helpful. Rachel - Joyous Health Team
How many times a day
ReplyHey Constance, There's no maximum really :) As many as you would like! Rachel - Joyous Health Team
Do you use the lemons in your water more than for just one serving? I like to drink lemon water all during the day, and often just add another quarter of a lemon and put fresh water in the container. I have not put the rinds of the lemon in the water because if I take an hour or more to drink my big 32 oz container it sometime tastes too strong of the rind. Of course I only do this over the course of a half a day or maybe a full day, and then throw out the rind and pulp and begin again. I also squeeze the juice from the rind so it mixes with the water. What is your method of adding the lemon to the water? I did not understand that part clearly from your video. Thanks for making the video — great job, and I look forward t hearing back from you! — Norma Jean
ReplyHey Norma, There's no wrong way of doing this. If you can get more out of your lemon, the better. However, if you're using the juice from the rind, it's best to make sure you're using organic to ensure you're not leaching pesticides into your food. Joy usually just cuts up a wedge and squeezes in the juice which will help you prevent the rind taste. I hope that helps! Rachel - Joyous Health Team
Can I make say a picture of lemon water and then stir it, pour a glass and heat it each day, or is it more effective when you squeeze it freshly each morning? Thank you
ReplyHey Jackie, It's recommended to squeeze it fresh daily just because the nutritional value declines the minute you squeeze or cut into fresh fruits/vegetables :) Rachel - Joyous Health Team
How long do you wait to eat after drinking lemon water?
ReplyHey Sherry, About 10-15 minutes should be fine :) This will give your body time to release it's gastric juices so it can break down foods efficiently! Rachel - Joyous Health Team
What is yhe best H20 to drink? Bottled, alkaline, purified, spring.????
ReplyHey Kathie! Spring would be most ideal, then any other filtered water would be ideal, like Santevia or reverse osmosis! Rachel - Joyous Health Team
Is using Lemon Essential Oil in warm water the same as lemon juice?
ReplyHey Mary, It would certainly come with some benefits but you will reap the most absorbable nutrients from a fresh lemon :) Rachel - Joyous Health Team
Thank you for invaluable advice. My husband bought me lemon in a plastic bottle so now I can explain to him why it's better to use the "real" thing!
ReplyHey Karen, Yes, that's awesome! Show him what the real deal whole lemon is all about :) Rachel - Joyous Health Team
If I dink lemon water as my first drink of the day how long should I wait before I can have a coffee
ReplyHey Danielle, There's no *perfect* amount of time but somewhere around 15 minutes should be okay just to allow time for the digestive juices to secrete :) Rachel - Joyous Health Team
Great in formation. Thank for sharing!
ReplyHow long should I wait after drinking lemon water to have my coffee?
ReplyThe longer the better but 15-20 minutes is a good amount of time to wait. Hope that helps!
Can the fresh lemon be added to my sugar free juice pac? Or must it be plain water? Thanks!
ReplyHey Pam, We would recommend adding it to water only :) Rachel - Joyous Health Team
-Can I add 1 Tbs of Honey to a warm Lemon water in the morning for weight loss, please ?! - How long should i stay after drinking lemon water to get a cup of coffee, please?!
ReplyWhat do you use when traveling and squeezing a fresh lemon is not possible?
ReplyHi Patty, You could bring apple cider vinegar with you as a replacement. It will have a similar effect :) Rachel - Joyous Health Team
When substituting Apple cider vinegar, how much do you add to your water or tea?
ReplyI would suggest add 1/2-1 tbsp of apple cider vinegar to your water. I don't think you would enjoy it very much in tea, but you could try :) Rachel - Joyous Health Team
How long do I wait after drinking lemon water can I have breakfast
ReplyHey Holly, Around 15 minutes should be good, but there's no perfect amount of time :) Rachel - Joyous Health Team
How long do the lemons need to be soaking in your water before it’s ready to drink?
ReplyHey Bernice, Not too long! We would recommend squeezing the fresh lemon first to get the juice out and then you can put the lemon wedge in. But it doesn't really need time to marinate or anything. Rachel - Joyous Health Team
I am trying to reduce diarrhea. What do you think about the lemon and water for that? Thanks so much, Patty
ReplyHi Patty, I'm sorry to hear you're experiencing diarrhea. That's certainly no fun! Lemon and water is always beneficial but it wouldn't be my first recommendation for alleviating diarrhea. I would actually recommend that if the diarrhea has been persistent for several days, to go to your doctor or natural health care practitioner to determine what is triggering the diarrhea. Otherwise, be mindful of certain foods that result in diarrhea, stay hydrated and support your gut as much as possible with probiotics and gut-loving foods! Feel better soon :) Rachel - Joyous Health Team
How often do you put fresh lemons in your water.....
ReplyHey Noreen! We recommend using a fresh lemon each time you make a lemon water. Just a small wedge is enough :) Rachel - Joyous Health Team
You did not address if bottled water can be used. I Do not have filtered refrigerated water but bigot to e faster.
ReplyHey Roberta! We simply encourage you to do the best you can. If you don't have a water filter, we would advise investing in one. Even something as simple as a Brita filter or a Santevia filter for starters! Rachel - Joyous Health Team
Hello can i drink my lemon and water before to go to bed? Thanks
ReplyHey Celine, You can but it's beneficial to have it first thing in the morning or before meals to reap the digestive health benefits :) Rachel - Joyous Health Team
Yes you totally can. To get the most benefits I do suggest on a near-empty stomach ideally.
Hi Joy What do you think about adding honey to your lemon water first thing in morning or does it interfere with benefits? TX so much ❤
ReplyYou could totally do that Lin!
TX 💖 I've been doing that for about a week adding to my lemon water and see a big difference in my skin looks really smooth and so soft 🤔 interesting hey I use raw honey 😊 someone even commented on it 👍
ReplyHelp, I posted a question about lemon and water yesterday, and the link to your reply was not working. So I don't know what you said....is there a way for me to see that reply? Thanks so much :)
ReplyHi Tana! You posted your question on this post: https://www.joyoushealth.com/27291-blog-these-perceived-health-habits-made-me-unhealthyIf you scroll to the bottom you'll see my answer. Hope that helps!
Do you suggest lemon water only once a day on an empty stomach or is throughout the day ok?
ReplyIdeally, on an empty stomach and typically the easiest time of day is first thing in the morning.
What would you recommend as an alternative in the case of a citric acid allergy?
ReplyThe only other food that is as effective is apple cider vinegar but that also had a bit of citric acid. I can't think of a similar alternative right now, sorry.
Can drinking lemon water everyday bad for your teeth? Thank you for all you great information. You are truly amazing!
ReplyIf you are concerned about the enamel on teeth, you can either use a straw while drinking it or swish your mouth around with water after drinking lemon and water. Hope that helps!
I am wondering if a high quality (Doterra or young living) lemon essential oil in water would provide the same benefits as the fruit,
ReplyA whole food is definitely not the same as an essential oil. Whole foods contain synergy of vitamins, minerals, enzymes and phytonutrients whereas an extract oil, although has benefits, just won't contain any vitamin C, minerals or enzymes. It will however, have the fat soluble phytonutrients from lemon. And of course that all depends on how it is extracted and the quality of the oil. Lots to consider!
I need to have better bowel movements. Starting to drink water with lemon juice from a bottle. Does it have to be Fresh lemons for it to have better results and does it help pain
ReplyFresh lemons are ideal. Most store-bought lemon juice has been pasteurized.
Daily morning I drink lemon juice with honey for breakfast. This really is to improve my health and also for
ReplySounds great!
I usually combine a tablespoon of ACV with the same amount of fresh lemon but is it just as effective to use fresh limes as a substitute?
ReplyYou can use fresh limes as well. Since they are a different fruit you'll get more of the sour notes and phytonutrients in lemons but they are still very nutritious.
Love this! I don't usually buy organic lemons since the rind is so thick, but I assume that's what you're using since you're putting them right in the water? Also, I was told hot water lemon for optimal digestion, but are you saying that's harder for the stomach to handle? Thank you!
ReplyI don't find the lemon rinds are thick with organic lemons, I find they are usually thicker with non-organic. Room temp is ideal, but just doing it, is great!
Silly question do you squeeze the lemon into the water or just put the slices into the water. Kind regards
ReplySqueeze it in :)