Drink This Daily for a Hydration Boost and a Slimmer Waist

Drinking enough water is essential for good health—add a squeeze of lemon, and you may boost those benefits even further. Lemon water’s perks extend from head to toe, supporting weight management, immunity, digestion and more. “Digestive function, skin health, kidney function and regulating body temperature all require adequate fluid intake,” says nutritionist and registered dietitian Devon Wagner.

Below, experts break down how adding citrus to your daily hydration can support key wellness goals.

Hydration

“Not everyone enjoys plain water, so adding lemon may encourage you to drink more and stay better hydrated,” says registered dietitian Dawn Menning. Hydration plays a key role in nutrient transport, digestion and maintaining energy levels, adds registered dietitian Michelle Cardel.

Weight management

Can lemon water help with weight loss? While it’s not a magic solution, it can support weight management in a few ways. “By swapping a sugar-sweetened drink for lemon water, you cut kilojoules to zero,” says Menning. “For example, replacing a 375ml soft drink with the same amount of lemon water saves around 670kJ.”

Drinking lemon water may also help curb unnecessary snacking. “It can be difficult to tell if we’re hungry or just thirsty,” says registered dietitian and nutritionist Susan M. Kundrat. “Hydrating properly may reduce total calorie intake throughout the day.”

Better hydration can also boost energy levels, which may encourage more movement. “When you feel energised, you’re more likely to stay active, burn more fat and support overall fitness,” says Kundrat. “It’s all connected.”

Vitamin C boost

“Lemons are a good source of vitamin C, an antioxidant that helps protect the body’s cells from damage,” says registered dietitian Dawn Menning. “Vitamin C supports immune function, collagen production and iron absorption.”

Supports digestion

“Lemon water has been shown to aid digestion and may improve insulin resistance,” says registered dietitian Trista Best. “Drinking warm lemon water in the morning can also act as a gentle laxative.”

May help prevent kidney stones

If you’re prone to kidney stones, adding lemon water to your routine may help, says Best. The citric acid found in lemons can help prevent the formation of kidney stones by reducing calcium build-up in the kidneys.

Potential side effects

While lemon water offers plenty of benefits, too much can have drawbacks:

• Weakened tooth enamel—The acidity in lemon juice can erode tooth enamel over time, says Menning.
• Acid reflux—If you have a sensitive stomach, the high acidity may trigger reflux or discomfort, especially with larger amounts. “If this happens, try diluting it more or drinking less,” says Cardel.

The bottom line

“Drinking one to two cups of lemon water daily is considered safe and beneficial,” says Menning. Cardel adds that while it can be refreshing, it’s not a miracle detox solution. Instead, lemon water should be part of a balanced diet alongside other nutrient-rich foods and healthy hydration habits.