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It’s not just the citrusy scent of lemon that can perk you up — consuming lemon juice may also boost digestion, immune health, and more. Here are five potential benefits of lemon juice.
1. Lemon Juice May Promote Digestion
Lemon juice is acidic, which can be beneficial for digestion. “I’m a big fan of lemon juice water in the morning because it activates the digestive system in a positive way,” says Abigail Hueber, RD, a functional dietitian and the owner of Above Health Nutrition in Boston.
Most anyone can benefit from lemon water in the morning (see recipe below), but especially those who could use digestive support, says Hueber.
Lemon juice is not a cure for digestive concerns, but drinking 16 ounces (oz) of water with ¼ to ½ of a squeezed lemon in the morning is a good way to jump-start digestion, Hueber says.
2. Lemon Juice Is Rich in Antioxidants
3. Lemon Juice May Support Immune Function
4. Lemon Juice Promotes Hydration
Squeezing fresh lemon into a glass of water may help you stay hydrated. “The fresh flavor lemon juice adds often makes drinking water more enticing and refreshing,” says Ali.
Lemon juice on its own is not more hydrating than other fluids, says Melanie Betz, RD, a registered dietitian and the founder of the Kidney Dietitian in Chicago. But if incorporating lemon juice helps you drink more water, that’s a win.
5. Lemon Juice May Help Prevent Kidney Stones
While this may reduce your chances of developing a kidney stone, it’s unlikely to dissolve or pass an existing stone, she notes. (Be sure to speak to your doctor about appropriate treatment if you have existing kidney stones.)