When Life Gives You Lemons, Squeeze them Into Your Water
Every morning, one of the first things I do is drink lemon water. This is something I’ve been intuitively doing for years and swear by to stay healthy.
As a citrus supporter, I’ve never understood why lemons get such a bad rap. Why is a garbage car (or person) called a “lemon?” Well, I did some research and there are a few potential origins of the lemon insult:
Slang for “a person who is a loser, a simpleton,” which is perhaps from the notion of someone a sharper (swindler) can “suck the juice out of”
A pool hall hustle was called a “lemon game” (1908)
To hand someone a lemon was British slang (1906) for “to pass off a sub-standard article as a good one”
A metaphor for something that “leaves a bad taste in one’s mouth”
Regardless of where it started, it’s too bad this colorful fruit has such a negative connotation, when in fact, lemons are so good for us.
What are the benefits of lemon water?
Not only is lemon water refreshing and delicious (and a bright way to start your day), but there’s a slew of health benefits that come along with this habit. Here are just a few of the many reasons why you should add lemon water to your morning routine.
It keeps you healthy. Lemons are packed full of nutrients and are an excellent source of Vitamin C (about 30-50 mg per lemon), which supports your immune system. Keeping your immune system strong is important to ward off illness. Lemons are also full of potassium, which helps regulate your blood pressure and heart rate.
It keeps you hydrated. We are a dehydrated population. In fact, according to research, 75% of Americans may be functioning in a chronically dehydrated state. We all know drinking enough water is vital and good for us, yet we are clearly ignoring our body’s cries for help.
By committing to a glass of lemon water first thing everyday, you’re one glass of water closer toward hydration happiness. And, chances are, this post is already making making you thirsty…
It aids digestion. Our bodies rely on water to flush out waste, and warm beverages in general can help keep things moving by flushing the toxins out. The pulpier, the better, as the pectin fiber of lemons can also improve your gut health.
It improves your skin. Drinking adequate water is good for your skin in general, but when you add lemons and their Vitamin C goodness to the mix, you get a wrinkle fighting, clear complexion concoction.
It speeds up your metabolism. Lemons can help increase your metabolic rate, allowing you to burn more calories and store less fat. Drinking lots of water throughout the day can keep your metabolism running and help you maintain a healthy weight.
It freshens your breath. Lemon water helps fight off nasty mouth bacteria that can cause bad breath. Unfortunately, the acid from lemon juice isn’t great for your teeth and it can actually erode the enamel on your teeth. That said, it’s a good idea to rinse your mouth with plain water after your glass or choose to drink through a glass straw (protect your teeth and the turtles!).
It makes you happier. Disclaimer: No scientific proof here, but I like to think zesty lemon water helps me have a happier start to the day. I read online (so you know it’s true), that dehydration causes crankiness so by staying hydrated, you stay happier.
How do you make lemon water?
As far as making my morning drink, I’m a purist and like my lemon water as simple as it sounds: squeeze half a lemon into a cup or boiled or chilled water.
Get the most out of your lemons with a game changer lemon squeezer. <–I never knew a kitchen gadget could make me so happy as this squeezer does.
If this is too lemon-y for you, try adding a bit of honey. Or, spruce up your cup by adding cayenne pepper (added metabolism boost), ginger (immune system booster), mint leaves or cucumbers.
Another fun way idea is to squeeze fresh lemon juice into ice cube trays, letting them freeze and then adding to a glass of water.
Whatever way you choose to consume, I hope you give these sour, yellow fruits a squeeze.
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