13 Side Effects of Drinking Lemon Water Everyday

13 Side Effects of Drinking Lemon Water Every Day

While lemon water is generally considered safe to drink, there are some potential side effects you should be aware of:

1. Dental Problems

Lemon water’s high acidity level is one of the main reasons it can harm your teeth. Over time, the acid in lemon juice can erode the tooth enamel, causing tooth sensitivity and cavities. This is especially true if you drink lemon water frequently or have poor dental hygiene habits.

To avoid dental problems caused by lemon water, it is recommended to drink it in moderation and rinse your mouth with water after drinking it. You can also drink lemon water through a straw to reduce the contact of the acid with your teeth.

2. Gastrointestinal Issues

Drinking too much lemon water can cause gastrointestinal problems, such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. This is because the high acidity of lemon juice can irritate the lining of the stomach, leading to discomfort and digestive issues.

To avoid gastrointestinal issues caused by lemon water, it is recommended to drink it in moderation and not on an empty stomach. You can also mix it with water or drink it after eating to reduce the acidity’s impact on your stomach.

3. Heartburn and Acid Reflux

People who suffer from heartburn or acid reflux may experience worsening of their symptoms when drinking lemon water. This is because the acid in lemon juice can irritate the esophagus, leading to heartburn and reflux.

To avoid heartburn and acid reflux caused by lemon water, it is recommended to drink it in moderation and not on an empty stomach. You can also mix it with water or drink it after eating to reduce the acidity’s impact on your stomach.

4. Skin Irritation

Lemon juice can cause skin irritation or rash in some people, especially when exposed to sunlight. This is because the juice can cause photosensitivity, making the skin more susceptible to sun damage.

To avoid skin irritation caused by lemon water, avoiding exposure to sunlight after applying lemon juice is recommended. You can also use sunscreen or cover the exposed skin areas with clothes to reduce the risk of sunburn or irritation.

5. Kidney Stones

Lemons are high in citric acid, which can increase the risk of kidney stones in some people. If you have a history of kidney stones, limiting your intake of lemon water is best.

To avoid kidney stones caused by lemon water, it is recommended to drink it in moderation and not excessively. You can also consult with your doctor about your lemon water consumption if you have a history of kidney stones.

6. Iron Deficiency

Drinking lemon water can interfere with the absorption of iron in the body. This can lead to iron deficiency anemia, especially in people who already have low iron levels or are at risk for anemia.

To avoid iron deficiency caused by lemon water, it is recommended to drink it in moderation and not excessively. You can also consume foods high in iron, such as spinach and red meat, to help maintain adequate iron levels.

7. Dehydration

While lemon water is often touted as a hydrating beverage, drinking too much can lead to dehydration. This is because the high acidity of lemon juice can stimulate urine production and increase fluid loss.

Some studies have found that drinking lemon water can increase the risk of dehydration, especially in hot weather or during exercise. It is essential to drink plenty of plain water in addition to lemon water to stay properly hydrated.

8. Risk of Bleeding

Lemons are high in vitamin C, essential for maintaining a healthy immune system and promoting wound healing.

However, consuming large amounts of lemon water can increase the risk of bleeding in people who are taking blood thinners or have a bleeding disorder.

This is because vitamin C can interfere with the blood clotting process. If you have a history of bleeding issues, you should speak with your doctor before consuming large amounts of lemon water.

9. Allergic Reactions

While rare, some people may be allergic to lemons or experience an allergic reaction to the citric acid in lemon juice. Symptoms of an allergic reaction can include hives, swelling, and difficulty breathing.

If you have a history of allergies or experience any unusual symptoms after consuming lemon water, it is essential to speak with your doctor.

10. Interference with Medications

Lemon juice can interfere with the absorption and effectiveness of certain medications, including antibiotics, chemotherapy drugs, and blood pressure medications.

This is because the acidity of lemon juice can alter the pH balance of the digestive tract, which can affect the absorption of these medications. If you are taking any medications, speaking with your doctor before drinking lemon water regularly is best.

11. Enamel Erosion and Tooth Decay

Lemons are highly acidic citrus fruits, and excessive consumption of lemon juice can erode the enamel on your teeth, causing tooth decay and dentinal hypersensitivity.

To avoid this, use a straw to drink lemon water and minimize direct exposure to your teeth. Additionally, wait at least 30 minutes after drinking lemon water before brushing your teeth, and drink plenty of water to help neutralize the acid in your mouth.

12. Migraines

Citrus fruits, including lemons, are known to trigger migraines and headaches due to the presence of tyramine, a natural monoamine that can cause headaches. If you suffer from migraines, it’s best to reduce your intake of lemon water or avoid it altogether.

13. Canker Sores

Mouth ulcers or canker sores are painful, non-contagious lesions that often develop in the mouth. Citrus fruits cause mouth ulcers, so it’s better to avoid drinking lemon water if you have canker sores. Wait for the sores to heal completely before consuming lemon water again.