I know that when I start my day making good choices for my health, it becomes much easier and more natural to continue those healthy choices throughout the rest of the day, and vise versa. If I started my morning, for instance, with a sugary baked good, I’d be hungry again in a short amount of time and be craving more sugar. If I continued to give in to those cravings, I’d feel extra sluggish and would probably be less likely to get my butt to the gym later that night. Sound familiar? Well, let’s stop self-sabotaging!
It’s so important that the first thing you consume in the morning and/or activity you carry out is one that’s in the best interest of your health. For me personally, beginning my day with something healthy that makes me feel good physically, results in increased motivation to keep up the good work all day long.
In seeking to improve my own health and digestion, I embarked on a journey in which I commited to drinking a warm glass of lemon water every morning for a whole year. That’s 365 cups of lemon water, give or take, on consecutive days. I didn’t exactly stop there, but I admit I could be a lot better about getting my water supply these days.
So what was the result of my dedication? For me, I increased my overall energy and clarity, and most importantly, I was able to get myself off of proton-pump inhibitors which I relied on to control severe Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease, better known as GERD or chronic acid reflux. Living a holistic lifestyle, I try to avoid unnecessary drugs and cure ailments naturally, so this was a top priority for me. Now yes, I did make some other health changes during this time and was able to consult a naturopath that I trust. However, I can confidently say that a lot of my healing could be attributed to this daily morning practice.
Wondering what other benefits lemon water has to offer? Keep reading to find out what lemons can do!
Facilitate Digestion
While we sleep, our digestive system is inactive. By drinking warm lemon water upon waking, our digestive system gets a jump start and begins to prepare for its day’s work.
Although lemons contain citric acid, they are actually highly alkaline when processed by the body. The juice from lemons can help to balance your pH levels, thereby lowering inflammation and acidity in your body.
Lemon juice also stimulates the liver and aids in bile production. Bile helps break down foods.
Detoxification
Lemon water helps remove toxins from the blood. It also aids in decreasing water retention, allowing toxins to be flushed from the body by way of urination. Less toxins stored in the body can lead to improved overall health and better skin.
Boost Immunity
Lemons contain vitamin C and potassium, nutrients that help improve the immune system. Why not start the day contributing to your daily dose of Vitamin C?
Provide Hydration
Drinking lemon water helps to rehydrate our body and our cells after a night’s rest. Drinking water in general is vital upon waking to provide the hydration we need for optimal functioning.
Prevent Overeating and Aid Weight Loss
By regularly drinking lemon water throughout the day, you will feel fuller for longer periods of time. As a result, you will be less likely to graze on snacks and look for extra calories between meals. The fiber from the pectin in lemon juice can be attributed for feeling full.
By now you realize lemons don’t only smell great and look pretty. They’re another source of “Green Candy,” refreshing food supplied by the earth that provides a ton of wellness benefits.
I LOVE lemons. That's why I was so excited to visit a lemon grove in Positano, Italy, a town known for their local lemons. You can tell by this video, lemons make me dance! ;)