Is Drinking Lemon Water Daily Safe for Your Health?

Regarding lemon water?

Hello: I drink lemon water every day, squeezing a slice of lemon into a 500cc cup before adding it.
There are claims online that drinking lemon water can lead to kidney dialysis and tooth decay.
Are these true? Also, can I ask if nutritionists recommend drinking lemon water every day, and is there a limit to how much I can drink?

Lia, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2011/08/14

Dr. Shi Guimei reply Nutrition

Dear Lia,
Hello! Lemons are classified as fruit, and a serving size of about 200 grams contains 60 calories (which is equivalent to 1 serving of fruit).
The new dietary guidelines published by the Department of Health this year recommend that healthy adults should consume 2 to 4 servings of fruit daily.
A balanced and varied diet is essential.
The claims that drinking lemon water can lead to kidney dialysis or tooth decay are unfounded; much of the information available online is unreliable, so there is no need for concern.
If you wish to drink lemon water daily, you can add 0.5 to 1 serving of lemon (which is 100 to 200 grams) to water in divided portions, and try to vary the types of other fruits to meet the remaining fruit intake.

Wishing you all the best!
Sincerely,
Dietitian Shih Kuei-Mei
Director of the Nutrition Department, Taoyuan Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare

Reply Date: 2011/08/14

More Info

Drinking lemon water daily is generally safe for most people, provided it is consumed in moderation. The concerns about lemon water leading to kidney issues or dental erosion are largely unfounded when considering typical consumption levels.
Lemons are rich in vitamin C, antioxidants, and other beneficial compounds that can support overall health. The idea that lemon water could cause kidney damage is a misconception. In fact, lemon water can be beneficial for kidney health due to its potential to help prevent the formation of kidney stones. The citric acid in lemons may help to increase urine volume and increase urine pH, which can create an unfavorable environment for the formation of certain types of stones.

As for dental health, while it is true that lemon juice is acidic and can potentially erode tooth enamel if consumed in excessive amounts or if proper dental hygiene is not maintained, moderate consumption of diluted lemon water is unlikely to cause significant harm. It is advisable to drink lemon water through a straw to minimize contact with teeth and to rinse the mouth with plain water afterward to help neutralize the acidity.
Nutritionists recommend that healthy adults can safely consume lemon water daily, ideally limiting the amount to about half a lemon (or 100-200 grams) diluted in water. This aligns with dietary guidelines that suggest a balanced intake of fruits and vegetables, emphasizing variety to ensure a wide range of nutrients.
It's also important to consider individual health conditions. For those with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) or other gastrointestinal issues, the acidity of lemon water may exacerbate symptoms. In such cases, it may be wise to consult with a healthcare provider before making lemon water a daily habit.

In summary, drinking lemon water daily can be a healthy addition to your diet, offering hydration and potential health benefits. However, moderation is key, and it is essential to maintain good dental hygiene practices. If you have specific health concerns or conditions, consulting with a healthcare professional or a registered dietitian is always a good idea to tailor dietary choices to your individual needs.

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