Is Drinking Lemon Water Daily Bad for Your Stomach?

May I ask about drinking lemon water?

Hello doctor, is it really bad for the stomach to drink lemon water every day? I dilute it and drink it like regular water, but I've heard that drinking it daily can harm the stomach.
Is that true? Thank you for your response.

kevin, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2005/12/05

Dr. Shi Guimei reply Nutrition

Hello! If you do not have any gastrointestinal ulcers or inflammatory conditions, drinking a moderate amount of diluted lemon water should not harm your stomach.
However, it is important to note that lemons are classified as a fruit.
According to the daily dietary guidelines from the Department of Health, the recommended fruit intake for healthy adults is 2 servings per day (even though lemon water tastes sour, it still contains fructose).
Additionally, based on the principle of dietary diversity, it is advisable to regularly vary the types of fruits consumed to prevent long-term nutrient imbalances, which could potentially lead to chronic diseases.
Sincerely, Dietitian Shih Kuei-Mei, Director of the Nutrition Department at Taoyuan Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Reply Date: 2005/12/05

More Info

Drinking lemon water daily can be a topic of concern for many, especially regarding its effects on the stomach. The key factor to consider is the acidity of lemon juice, which is primarily citric acid. While lemon juice is acidic in nature, when diluted with water, it can be less harmful to the stomach for most individuals.
For healthy individuals without pre-existing gastrointestinal conditions such as ulcers or gastritis, consuming diluted lemon water in moderation is generally safe and can even provide health benefits. Lemons are rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, which can support overall health. However, it is essential to recognize that excessive consumption of acidic beverages, including lemon water, can potentially lead to stomach discomfort or exacerbate conditions like gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) in some people.

The concern about drinking lemon water daily often stems from the potential for increased acidity in the stomach. For those who are prone to acid reflux or have a sensitive stomach, the acidity from lemon juice could irritate the stomach lining or esophagus, leading to discomfort. Therefore, if you experience symptoms such as heartburn or stomach pain after consuming lemon water, it may be wise to reduce your intake or consult a healthcare professional.

Moreover, while lemon water can be a refreshing alternative to sugary drinks, it is crucial to maintain a balanced diet that includes a variety of fruits and vegetables. The dietary guidelines recommend consuming a variety of fruits to ensure a well-rounded intake of nutrients. Relying solely on lemon water for hydration may lead to nutritional imbalances over time.

In terms of hydration, it is essential to listen to your body. If you find that lemon water helps you stay hydrated and does not cause discomfort, it can be a part of your daily routine. However, if you notice any adverse effects, consider switching to plain water or other non-acidic beverages.

In conclusion, drinking diluted lemon water daily is not inherently bad for your stomach, provided you do not have underlying gastrointestinal issues and consume it in moderation. Always pay attention to how your body reacts and consult with a healthcare provider if you have specific concerns or pre-existing conditions. A balanced approach to hydration and nutrition is key to maintaining good health.

Similar Q&A

Does Drinking Lemon Water After Meals Harm Your Digestive Health?

Lemon water is said to stimulate the gastrointestinal tract and may aid in skin whitening. Occasionally, I drink a cup of lemon water (one cup of lemon diluted with water) after lunch to help with digestion. I'm wondering if long-term use could harm my gastrointestinal healt...

Dr. Hou Yuchang reply Traditional Chinese Medicine
Hello: The claim that lemon water helps detoxify the body lacks solid medical evidence; however, it does provide a rich source of vitamin C, which is beneficial for skin whitening and enhancing metabolism. Consuming one cup of appropriate lemon juice per day is not discouraged (i...

Is Drinking Lemon and Salt Water on an Empty Stomach Harmful?

I saw a celebrity online claiming that the key to weight loss is changing one's body composition. They suggested drinking freshly squeezed lemon juice (from one lemon) mixed with a tablespoon of coarse salt diluted in 600 cc of warm water first thing in the morning on an emp...

Dr. Cai Xiuwen reply Nutrition
Hello! Lemon and salt are both types of food, and for healthy individuals, consuming them in moderation should not affect health. However, for those with gastrointestinal issues or conditions such as inflammation or ulcers, it may exacerbate the burden on the digestive system. Th...

Is Drinking Undiluted Lemon Juice on an Empty Stomach Harmful?

Drinking 2-3 undiluted lemon juice on an empty stomach in the morning may not necessarily harm the body for most individuals. However, the high acidity of lemon juice can potentially lead to dental erosion or gastrointestinal discomfort in some people, especially those with acid ...

Dr. Shi Guimei reply Nutrition
Some legends or personal experiences suggest that consuming foods like pineapple, starfruit, sour plums, and lemons may cause gastrointestinal discomfort in certain individuals. However, medical science cannot prove that everyone who eats these foods will develop gastritis, gastr...

Can Drinking Lemon Water Cause Gum Bleeding and Stomach Discomfort?

I rarely drank lemon water before, but two weeks ago I heard that lemon water is very beneficial for the body, so I started drinking it every day (about half a lemon sliced and placed in approximately 1000cc of water). However, in the past couple of days, I've been feeling s...

Dr. Cao Guoqing reply Dentistry
1. Do you regularly visit the dentist for cleanings? 2. Gum bleeding is a precursor to periodontal disease; it is recommended that you have regular dental cleanings. 3. Drinking lemon water is not related to gum bleeding. 4. For gastrointestinal issues, please visit the int...