Hot lemon water may have some health benefits, such as helping with cold symptoms. However, claims about the health benefits of drinking hot lemon water before bed currently lack any evidence.
Hot lemon water has a long history of use in alternative medicine. For example, followers use diluted lemon to treat a sore throat or clear nasal passages.
This article discusses whether hot lemon water before bed is healthful or has other health benefits.
Hot lemon water is a mixture of plain water and lemon juice or a slice of lemon. Water is
The
Dehydration can cause problems that include changes in mood, difficulty thinking, and other physical complications. Drinking a glass of hot lemon water before bed is a good way to stay hydrated.
Lemon is also a source of vitamin C, which has
However, several other foods are also rich sources of vitamin C. For example, oranges, broccoli, and some fortified juices are all rich sources of vitamin C.
There are many health claims about the benefits of drinking hot lemon water, from moisturizing the skin to preventing cancer.
There is a lack of research that specifically examines the health benefits of drinking hot lemon water before bed. Some studies do focus on the possible health benefits of general hydration.
A
The authors concluded that there are possible benefits to additional hydration, but more research is necessary.
Learn more about dehydration here.
Improving mood
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The researchers found that increasing water intake in people with low hydration improved their calmness, satisfaction, and sleep. They found the opposite effects when reducing water intake in the other group.
Some people may find hot lemon water before bed relaxing. The experience might be beneficial for inducing sleep or improving sleep quality.
Learn more about when to drink water here.
Reducing cold symptoms
In a
Lemons also contain vitamin C. A
Learn whether ice pops or hot drinks are better for a sore throat here.
Other possible health benefits
Hot or cold lemon water could have benefits at any time of day, such as:
- Weight loss: A
2019 review found some evidence that increased hydration could help with weight loss, particularly if the water is replacing sugary drinks. - Natural detoxification: A small
study in 2020 found that drinking water may support kidney function and dilute toxins in the blood. - Reduced risk of heart disease: A
2019 paper suggested that some compounds in citrus could reduce the risk of heart disease, but studies are necessary to test this claim directly.
Lemon water is generally safe to consume for most people. However, some people may experience side effects if they consume large quantities.
For example, lemon water may cause the erosion of tooth enamel. According to a
People with weakened tooth enamel or who are at risk of teeth problems should discuss with a dentist before regularly consuming lemon water before bed.
People looking to use lemon water as a treatment should first talk to their doctor. A doctor can assess the condition and determine if other treatments are necessary to take with the hot lemon water.
Mix lemon juice or a lemon slice with boiled water to make hot lemon water. The ratio of lemon to water will vary depending on personal preferences.
Some people may prefer warm water instead of boiling. To warm the water, use a kettle, hob, or microwave.
Hot lemon water may induce relaxation before bed, which could help with sleep. It can also help with general hydration. Lemon contains vitamin C, which is important for several bodily functions.
Hot lemon water may provide other benefits, but there is a lack of evidence behind most health claims. Direct research into the benefits of drinking hot lemon water before bed is necessary to determine its effects.
People will make hot lemon water in a variety of ways. But the recipe usually involves mixing boiled water with lemon.
Hot lemon water is generally safe for most people.