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Number 1
It balances pH--Lemon is an acidic food, but once metabolized, it becomes alkaline. I work very hard at keeping my body alkaline. Why?
To put it most simply, alkalies help keep the oxygen in our blood at a safe pH level, and this helps our body heal itself, assimilate nutrients and fight off unwanted sickness.
I have read of many people who have fought their cancer nutritionally by focusing on the body's pH levels. Kris Carr, of Crazy Sexy Cancer has halted tumors growing in her liver for over 7 years by focusing on nutrition, including alkalizing foods. I think that is crazy cool. Even a little crazy sexy cool!!
Number 2
It keeps skin clear and glowing! I have noticed this. Hydration from drinking lemon water is great for moisturizing our skin from the inside out. Lemon also contains lots of Vitamin C, which helps with wrinkles and blemishes.
Number 3
It kick starts the digestive system--a big glass of lemon water is a great way to start the day. It encourages the liver to produce bile which in turn aids in digestion. It increases urination which helps purify it. It also helps with heartburn and constipation.
Number 4
It helps with weight loss--I have read that keeping the body in an alkaline state helps people lose weight faster. Lemons are high in fiber pectin, which helps keep one full, longer. They also have a diuretic effect, which helps with water weight gain.
Number 5
It helps control the coffee habit--I will drink coffee sometimes, but only if I have had my entire glass of lemon water. Many days I feel like the lemon water wakes me up more than coffee does...
...which brings me to bonus Number 6:
It helps kick the pop habit--I have found that adding lemon to sparkling water and adding a whole lot of ice satisfies any soda craving I might have. I gave up soda pop the minute I was diagnosed a year ago, and I really don't miss it. I don't think I could stand the sweetness of it now, but I DO miss the fizz, so my "Lemon Spritzer"--lemon +sparkling water+ice--is the perfect solution!
My mom gave me this antique lemon press. I just love it. I think it is cute so it stays out on my counter top, on display, which is perfect since it is used every morning.
I use 1/2 lemon, add ice to a 24 ounce mason jar, and add water to the top.
So easy fun and easy to use!
I save the second half for a refreshing "Lemon Spritzer" (see #6) later in the day.
When I pour freshly squeezed lemon juice over ice, I get the same feeling one might get when popping the top of their pop can and fizz leaks out, Ahhh.... or maybe the same feeling of the champagne cork popping? Ok..maybe not THAT good...
My lemon press is super easy to clean. I just the remove the metal and rinse.
*Tip..use a straw to keep the acidic lemon off your teeth. (Remember, it is acidic until digested, then it turns alkaline)
I am not sure where you can get a press exactly like mine. Like I said, my mom bought it for me, I think from an antique shop or maybe even a thrift store?
Here are a couple lemon presses on Amazon.
Use my link and I will get a small percentage! If you do, Thank you.
Thanks to your comments below, I am now saving my pennies for these beauties!
These glass straws are strong, durable, and GORGEOUS.
They offer several sizes, I love that the 12mm will make my daily green smoothie sipping much easier!
The also offer bead free, if you prefer plain glass.
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~have you heard of the importance of pH levels in the body?
Posts
Love it! I drink water with liquid chlorophyll, but this would be a wonderful change! I'm going to click through and order a lemon juicer...although yours is so darling. But I don't want to wait...hmmm...what to do what to do. Can you see I tend to torture myself over nothing? Maybe lemon water would help that? Lisa~
ReplyDeleteWhen I was pregnant with my daughter I developed gallstones. I've been drinking lemon water ever since as it's terrific for gallbladder health too. I'm happy to say, I haven't had an attack since she was a baby and now she's four! The surgeon even let me keep my gallbladder!! Woohoo - no surgery, regardless of how minor is a plus for me!
ReplyDeleteI first heard of Ph levels and the importance of them from Jay Kordich of Juiceman "fame". It makes a lot of sense to me. I don't test my Ph (though maybe I should) but I do try to be aware of the foods/drinks that are the most acidic and try to avoid.
Love love love your lemon juicer. I'm going to have to keep my eyes open for one like it. It would look so cute on my counter!
I also drink it for gallbladder issues.... it's my "belly saver" as I call it!
DeleteMaybe I should start. I also had gall stones while I was pregnant. Then came the pancreatitis, then the preeclampsia... then I had to be rush to the delivery room because the toxins got to my brain and I passed out and had a personality switch. My gall bladder had to be removed right after my levels dropped down. Trying to stay healthy now!
DeleteI've never heard of that - thanks for sharing! Does it matter if the water is cold or hot?
ReplyDeleteNope!Its great either way, Hot lemon water is good if its cold out and your feelin under the weather!!
DeleteHi Lisa!! Ohh chlorophyll is another awesome alkalizing pick me up! I take sprulina to get my chlorophyll, the organic pills from trader joes. I looked on google for my press and found nothing..:(
ReplyDeleteHi Missy-so cool about your gallstones and no surgery. Glad you think the juicer is cute, I did too!
Hi Jessica--Great question. I have read that ideally the water should be lukewarm, but I don't remember why. I think I ignored it b/c I know I love my ice!!:) Something about it taking less energy for the body to digest it if it is body temperature??
Your comment at the very end, about the body using less energy to digest the water, is actually correct. The body is able to put the lemon water to work faster if it is at room temperature, or even heated for 30 seconds after coming out of the tap, than if it's either too cold or too hot, as it would have to work to alter the temperature first before it could make use of it. Great posting btw...although I still love my coffee, I do appreciate the purging qualities of lemon water, as well as its overall benefits to the body! Thanks for sharing!
Deletenot sure if you knew or not... but while you are eating it is better to drink warm-hot drinks (green tea, hot tea, lemon water, etc) because when you drink something cold it solidifies the fat in the food you're eating which also makes it very difficult for digestion.. and makes you use the bathroom more frequently.. if you drink something warm while eating your body has an easier time digesting and absorbing all the nutrients and it regulates your digestive system...
DeleteJust something to keep in mind! I love my lemon water thats for sure - and I do know that when lemons start to get a bit pricey its also a good change to buy the already squeezed into a bottle juice with half of a real lemon. its cheaper AND it tastes exactly the same :)
I just read an article on Hoax Slayer that said it's a myth about drinking something cold solidifying the fat. I don't know about the other stuff on here though.
DeleteYour body is at 98.6 so even if you drink cold drinks, when they hit your stomach they warm up to body temp. they don't stay cold.
DeleteNever underestimate the value of a simple fork in juicing a lemon half - scrape any loose seeds free, insert the fork into the heart of the lemon half and squeeze, pivoting the lemon back and forth on the fork. So easy and leaves your counter top free!
DeleteThanks for your comments! You all make posting about simple lemon water so much fun!
ReplyDeleteI drink a glass of water every moring when I wake up, any time I go out to eat I always drink lemon water, I have also heard that lemon water helps to prevent kidney stones.
ReplyDeleteThanks for letting me know!
ReplyDeleteI have the same juicer as you! I also drink lemon water everyday but add a Tablespoon of Organic Blackstrap Molasses. Just do a search for the health benefits and you'll see why ;o)
ReplyDeleteI have heard about the weight loss factor from a lot of people and I followed it too for a couple of weeks but could go no further. Laziness!! But after reading add these added advantages, I think it's time to go back to a glass of lemon water in the morning. Thanks for sharing all the information. You are a sweetheart!!
ReplyDeleteThanks for sharing this, Amy! I drink lemon water as well. It needs to be lukewarm because hot water will "kill" most of the vitamin C, and cold water is a shock to your digestive system.
ReplyDeleteI have been drinking lemon in my water from the time I was a child but I never knew all the benefits from it. Thanks for enlightening me. I also love lime in my water, wonder if it has all the same properties as a lemon?
ReplyDeleteThanks for reminding me how much I love lemons! You should check out glass dharma straws though, they look fantastic in a mason jar.
ReplyDeleteYum, these are all excellent reasons. I drink water with a shot of cranberry juice (no sugar added) in the morning. With a straw as well. I think I need to add lemon to the mix!
ReplyDeleteI'm very humbled/honored that you would quote me. :) I have been out of practice so thank you for the reminder of how beneficial starting the day with water and lemon is!
ReplyDeleteIf you miss fizz - have you considered kombucha? It's a fermented tea drink and you can flavor it however you like.
ReplyDeleteI love drinking lemon water...all day long! When I don't have fresh lemons, I use lemon essential oil. Great post about the many benefits!
ReplyDeleteHi Amy! Great info. Thanks. You should buy some stainless steel reusable straws! We use them at our house--good for years and years. Wash just like you do silverware. They even have bent ones. I think I found mine on Amazon.
ReplyDeleteLove your comments everyone! Especially loved the straw recommendations. It sounds like limes are very similar to lemons, and even contain more vitamin c! Here is a link to the health benefits of limes..http://len7288.hubpages.com/hub/Health-Benefits-of-Lime
ReplyDeleteFor the spritzer mentioned in the post, any carbonated water will do, which is club soda, seltzer, or sparkling. All the same thing. Some are flavored--watch out for these, they often have artificial sweeteners in them.
ReplyDeleteI am obsessed with lemon water! I have almost completely stopped drinking soda.... maybe only two a week! I also love the taste. I did a cleanse with my husband a few months ago and we had to drink a cup of lemon water when we woke up every morning before we could eat/drink anything else. It helps cleanse and boost the digestive system just like you said! I love lemons :)
ReplyDeleteThanks for the tips. That juicer is so cool! Totally gonna get one. LOL.
ReplyDeleteI have a press that looks just like yours. I got it as a wedding gift from my Crate & Barrel registry in 1998.
ReplyDeleteLove the lemon tips. We have kefir water every morning. Lemon would be great to add to the kefir water to help with all the tips you suggested.
ReplyDeleteOn another note, my mom cured her breast cancer in the 1970's by changing her diet. It can be done!
Found your blog through Pinterest...going to start following you because A: your blog is beautiful and B: great info!
stefani that is amazing! Did she do a certain diet in. Particular?
DeleteCan u use bottled lemon juice?
ReplyDeleteHi Erin...so am I! So fun that others have formed a love relationship with lemons:)
ReplyDeleteChrissy..I have been told the press was from Crate & Barrel, 1998! There are many great presses out there, though..
Stefani...so great to hear about your mom! I may email you to get more details in what she did. I know many that love their kefir:) Thank you so much for your kind comments.
Anonymous...I am not sure about the bottled lemon juice, but I KNOW it would not taste as refreshing. I always think fresh is best for retaining the most nutrients..
Thank you for this post. As soon as I read it I went out and bought lemons and a huge bag of ice. I'm pregnant and my mouth started to water as soon as I read your post!
ReplyDeleteLemon water is also a cure/relief for people who suffer from gout. Use room temperature water as hot/boiling water changes the properties of the lemon juice.
ReplyDeleteI've heard that apple cider vinegar also does the same as lemon water. I imagine lemon water would probably taste a bit better Lol
ReplyDeleteSomeone on this site should read a biochem book. First off, oxygen is an element, it doesn't have "pH". Second, you can't test the "pH" of your body because it is different everywhere. The normal pH of blood is between 7.35 and 7.45 making blood "slightly alkaline" in that neutral pH is 7.0. The body has a natural buffering system. When it is too acidic the body can compensate by increasing the carbonate through metabolism, and by increasing breathing, which releases acid in your breath. But it is very hard to do the reverse.
ReplyDeleteTry picking up a book and learning some science here:
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books. The books are free to read.
References:
Molecular Biology of the Cell, 4th edition
Bruce Alberts, Alexander Johnson, Julian Lewis, Martin Raff, Keith Roberts, and Peter Walter.
New York: Garland Science; 2002.
ISBN-10: 0-8153-3218-1
ISBN-10: 0-8153-4072-9
Biochemistry, 5th edition
Jeremy M Berg,1 John L Tymoczko,2 and Lubert Stryer3.
1 Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine
2 Carleton College
3 Stanford University
New York: W H Freeman; 2002.
ISBN-10: 0-7167-3051-0
Copyright © 2002, W. H. Freeman and Company.
Contents
Someone on this site should read an etiquette book. Mr. Anonymous: I believe we all understand why you have chosen to cowardly hide behind anonymity. If you can tell me exactly why you believe it would be unhealthy to drink a glass of lemon water, please do so. Being able to quote an undergraduate biochemistry book doesn't make you intelligent, or informed.
DeleteAMEN jewlz!
DeleteIt isn't that lemon water is NOT healthy... simply that it isn't magic.
DeleteI very much believe that eating healthy can really work great things for your body! You get back what you put in!!
DeleteI myself would always offer a word of caution to readers about messing with the bodies pH level, just because our bodies are different from one-antohers.
Yes it is true that the hemoglobin that carries the oxygen through our body can actually change it's shape if your pH go either too acidic or alkaline. Then the oxygen has a hard time getting to where it needs to go. For most people, our bodies keep it's pH level in check on it's own just fine. But for others the body get's out of whack for a whole list of reason and if drinking lemon water helps that I say awesome! But I don't think that #1 was written because she is trying to tell everyone that they should run out grab some lemons and try to change the pH of their bodies.
I myself love drinking lemon water!
So to "Anonymous" You have one brain and mouth for a reason. And two eyes and ears for a reason too. Reading is not the only way you learn. You can learn by watching others and listening too! So maybe you should try using some manners before you let your brain and mouth make you look like an ass.
Hey Anonymous, RUDE much??? HMPH!
DeleteDear Anonymous,
ReplyDeleteI would appreciate the information without the condescending tone. I learn by reading and share what I know. My doctor checks the ph of my blood, so there must be something to it. I DO appreciate the reading suggestions you left, so thank you for that..
Great post Amy (I too found it on Pinterest). There are a multitude of reasons why we can all stand to drink more water, esp. lemon water! Drinking lemon water can also improve the glycemic response to a meal (ie lower insulin levels = ability for body to naturally burn fat).
ReplyDeletePS Loved the way you handled the anonymous comment :)
Hi Amy...
ReplyDeleteI just found your blog today....through Pinterest. I am on my way to buy lemons now. I haven't been feeling well lately maybe this can help.
Thanks Sue.
I love lemon water too. I was on a diet that promoted drinking it, and now I'm hooked. They recommended adding some all natural stevia to it, and making a "lemonade" drink... so I do this frequently. It helps me drink more of it, sometimes. Hopefully it has the same benefits, and I like stevia now too. I used to use splenda and sweet n low, but now it's all stevia. Thanks for your post!
ReplyDeleteVery interesting...I also wonder if there is a difference between the bottled juice and the fresh. While I always like things better from the source sometimes it's just not as readily available. Thanks for sharing this, I'm also here from Pinterest!
ReplyDeleteThere is a frozen lemon juice packaged by Minute Maid that is real juice with nothing added...it's great, I've used it for years...
ReplyDeleteFound your site through Pinterest...good luck with your self healing diet...I think it is great to take control of your diet!!!
Thank you for telling everyone about your lemon water and the benefits associated with drinking it daily. I would also like to address the post referencing the biochemistry books. The tone was totally unnecessary. Science does not have the answer to everything. We are constantly learning new things everyday and do not know the answers to everything. I once failed a research paper in an advanced nutrition class. The subject was antioxidants and at the time it was cutting edge. My professor said that there was no proof that antioxidants were beneficial because the AMA and the ADA ( referencing medical and dietician associations? ) have not set standards therefore it was not true. Well, well, well- we now know many things beyond antioxidants and WHY they are beneficial in overall health and vitality. Also, the earth is round - not flat. Need I say more? :)
ReplyDeleteI hope you took your failed paper back to your professor and stuck it in his/her face! LOL
DeleteYou can buy a citrus press like your's at Bed, Bath, and Beyond. Mine is stainless steel, but has the exact same look. :)
ReplyDeleteLove this site and the conversations about Lemon water.Also found it through Pinterest.
ReplyDeleteCould you use lemon juice that comes from the bottle? Is that the same thing? I'm in college and live in a dorm. It would be so much easier to keep a bottle of lemon juice in the fridge than try to cut a lemon every morning. Cheaper too.
ReplyDeleteWhat about limes? I much prefer lime water to lemon, but do they provide the same benefits?
ReplyDeleteLOVE this!
ReplyDeleteEven if I put lemon in my tea, it would be better than no lemon at all? Thanks!
Does this work with lemon juice instead of fresh lemons?
ReplyDeletehi! i work @ crate and barrel and that press is called the mighty oj. alas, we don't carry it now, but a quick google search came up with several retailers who do... it's usually about $40 a pop, and comes in different finishes. if i remember right, it has a famous designer and was featured at the museum of modern art. good luck and good health, ladies(and gentlemen)!
ReplyDeleteLove the info! I will start drinking more lemon water and less diet coke!
ReplyDeleteI would try the frozen lemon juice before bottled. Freezing would retain nutrients, where as bottled I am sure loses much of the nutrients, plus just tastes nasty!
ReplyDeleteThank you all for the press info! I was hoping someone would know.
Yes, it seems lime is just as healthy as lemons. Here is a link to benefits of lime..http://www.organicfacts.net/health-benefits/fruit/health-benefits-of-lime.html
Just found your blog on Pintrest. Thanks for the lemon/lime info. Can't wait to try, but I have (probably a stupid) question. Do I have to drink all 24oz at once, or is this something I should spread out over the course of the day? I drink water all day anyway (maybe 1-2 sodas a month), but why not get the most out of it?
DeleteMy Mom also has one of these presses. It belonged to her grandmother and is such a neat little antique that works great. As for the Lemon water when I was a little girl I had to be in "Diet Center" and this was one of their techniques except you had to drink the water warm. It worked very well.
ReplyDeleteHere is a link to what I think your juicer is on amazon:http://www.amazon.com/Metrokane-Mighty-Citrus-Juicer-Chrome/dp/B0000CFNDW/ref=cm_cr_pr_product_top. this one has a chrome head, but it looks like the same model :)
ReplyDeleteCan the water be tap water?
ReplyDeleteDoes anyone know if using the whole lemon with a Vita Mix would give the same results? This was a good link through Pinterest. Sorry about the anonymous. Don't know what the other stuff means.
ReplyDeleteJust be careful of your teeth. My mom is a dental hygienist and has many people coming in that drink too much lemon water. 2 a day at the very most or your teeth are going to suffer from the acid.
ReplyDeleteYou might have missed the *Tip toward the end of this blog. It reminds us to use straws to prevent damage to our teeth from the acidity. :)
DeleteSaw this on Pinterest! Isn't it fun when Pinterest shares what you have posted all over the place! I will have to do it again and the suggestion of the straws is great. The ones you show are beautiful.
ReplyDeleteI've been pop free for almost 3 years now. I like plain ole' water, but now I will throw in some lemon. :) I'll give the lemon spritzer a try too!
ReplyDeleteLemon water is great and so is Apple Cider Vinegar (Organic, unfiltered, with the mother). Sounds gross, but it really isn't bad at all. I have lost 15 pounds since starting it three months ago, and I haven't been sick either. Just a tablespoon in a large glass of water,drink through a straw..google the benefits!
ReplyDeleteLove this! I found this on Pinterest and I would love for you to link this up at our link party...I know our readers would love this! junkintheirtrunk.blogspot.com/2011/11/link-it-up-wednesday_08.html
ReplyDeleteJust found this post today through Pinterest and HAD to try it! I made my water with half a lemon, half a lime and a packet of sweetener. It is definitely refreshing and feels like it wakes you up more than coffee, I agree! Thanks so much for the amazing tips and good luck with the self healing. Stay strong!
ReplyDeleteIf you really want to assist the liver (and the kidneys) add real maple syrup (grade B is best) andd cayenne pepper. This mixture is also used as a fasting cleanse, but even if you just drink it daily it helps!
ReplyDeletelemon water is also good for preventing kidney stones. :)
ReplyDeleteI too, drink water with lemon every day, throughout the day. I am a cancer survivor, and have completely changed what I allow into my home, body, and life. I read everything I can get my hands on that has to do with living well through good nutrition, and various natural solutions. If I could go back and take away my 6 months of chemo, I would! I believe I only succeeded in poisoning myself. I would make radically different treatment choices today. I also feel that food can cause AND cure us of disease!
ReplyDeleteI am so happy to have stumbled across your blog today through Pinterest.
With regard to the extremely condescending comment left by an anonymous reader earlier...shake it off. Some people can only feel important by making others feel small. You handled it with grace. Kudos to you. I will be following your blog from now on!
"Science does not have the answer to everything". Sure, but when you're talking about the pH of you blood and the effects of drinking lemon water - that's science. You can't use scientific claims to back something up if the science isn't there. Though condescending as it may have been, I think this was the intentions of the "Anonymous" post above.
ReplyDeleteIf you feel better drinking lemon water, keep doing it. Though I doubt it is for many of the reasons listed.
I am starting this ASAP! Thanks for the tip! I am your newest follower :)
ReplyDeleteFound this post on Pinterest and am really going to give this a try!
ReplyDeleteThe bottled lemon juice that you find on the grocery store shelf has added sulfites. Sulfites give me migraines.
ReplyDeleteI am curious about whether the effects of drinking vinegar water would be similar?
ReplyDeleteLOVE this idea! Thanks so much for sharing. Besides the pH testing kit, is there anything else you use to learn about where to keep your levels? I'm in the process of learning more about this too.
ReplyDeleteYou can get lemon presses similar to this at Bed Bath and Beyond.
ReplyDeletehttp://www.bedbathandbeyond.com/product.asp?SKU=13573077
I think you'll find soda water will cancel out the alkalinizing effect, and too much cold slows the digestion. But you have encouraged me to get back to doing this, you could try it warm some mornings?
ReplyDeleteAnonymous: If "the effects of lemon" is science, why are you spending time commenting? Just let it go. We all have different interests and rights to our opinions. No need to go to a site fight-chasing. Please try being more positive.
ReplyDeleteThere is a whole lot of "research" out there and I am (usually) on the side of proven science when it comes to anything on this matter...what I think, imho, is that eating greens and drinking lemon water, etc, help our bodies to work the right way even MORE than it already does.
ReplyDeleteYes our bodies are amazing and actually do adjust the ph on its own, most of the time! God made us perfect! But our diets are not, and perhaps people who are sick NEED to eat MORE of these foods?!
Meaning, when people are sick with cancer etc, their bodies aren't working properly. So perhaps the ph IS somehow off in those patients? It's an interesting discussion!!!
Bottom line, we all need to eat more green veggies, and although some of the benefits of lemons and limes are overstated by some folks, the fact is they are HIGH in vit c, have fiber and are good for us. So although we sometimes want more details, or fight over the details, drinking this won't hurt us and we all need what citrus fruits have to offer. And lemon water is SO DARN GOOD!!!
Thanks Amy for a super blog! Thank you for sharing your journey and insights! Good luck!
And while I believe in our right to free speech, I also feel that we have a moral obligation to do so in a gentle and kind manner. No one is 100% right...not even science. Our bodies are dynamic (meaning changing) and even the simplest of drugs or foods etc will interact differently each time we ingest! So there is no hard and fast rule for our bodies! Each of us responds differently. Just an errant thought! :)))))
My mother drank lemon water to replace coffee in the morning for a couple of years until it destroyed the enamel on her teeth.
ReplyDeleteLoving the discussion everyone! Anonymous- this is why I suggest drinking it with a straw.
ReplyDelete...this is written towards the end of the post.
ReplyDelete"*Tip..use a straw to keep the acidic lemon off your teeth. (Remember, it is acidic until digested, then it turns alkaline)"
I like to drink it w/ real maple syrup as a sweetener.
ReplyDeleteAlso like to have lime as the major ingredient.
This has helped me w/ digestion issues and I have a friend w/ irritable bowel syndrome - she raves
about it
I love the taste of Lemon water-- however, I've done the same thing with ACV (apple cider vinegar) and Baking Soda-- to correct ph and alkalize the body...basically, the oxygen levels in the blood/body do increase making it harder for disease to take hold.
ReplyDeleteFor me it was fibroid cysts-- I'm here to testify that it is good for the body!
Amy- keep on doing what your doing; a testimony cannot be refuted. Not scientifically or spiritually,Period.
Lemon water sounds delish! I'll have to try it in the mornings since I am not a coffee drinker.
ReplyDeleteAs regards the water temp, room temperature water is always better for you to drink than cold. I can't remember exactly why, but it has something to do with the way your body metabolizes/ digests fat. Cold water is a shock to your digestive system and your body doesn't digest as efficiently. If you feel the need to drink cold water, it is best not to do so with a meal.
Hi Amy! I got a vintage lemon press for Christmas! whoohoo. I am starting this tomorrow. Today - trip to T'J's for some lemon! Thanks. Love you. :)
ReplyDeleteThis is a great post!
ReplyDelete"Anonymous" needs to read further in the biochemistry book. They were correct that oxygen doesn't have a "pH" but it is very important when determining pH. When detecting acidemia or alkalemia in the body, the most important molecules are bicarbonate (HCO3) and carbon dioxide (CO2). Oxygen is in both of these. Your respiratory system also has large effects in maintaining the body's pH. Your kidneys and respiratory system are essential for maintaining a slightly alkaline pH. They work to balance each other. Seeing as lemon water works on the kidneys (diuretic, etc) I would hazard a guess that the benefits are more than what you think!
Also, I believe your doctor is taking an arterial blood gas to monitor your blood pH.
I am in pharmacy school and we learn all the time about metabolic/respiratory acidosis and alkalosis. These conditions can cause major catastrophe in the body and anything that helps maintain a normal pH of 7.35 to 7.45 is a good thing!
I am going to start drinking this every morning :)
@Kelsey
ReplyDeleteThank you for sharing your knowledge with such grace, and taking time to type it all out for us! Cheers to lemon water and healthy body ph!!
I love that I found this site. I love reading about health benefits of foods, in this case drinks.. I am one of these people that need to eat better because I was taught growing up more about convenience foods vs healthy foods. I don't know all the science facts about PH levels etc. I do know that I learned some about PH levels when I started selling a line of skin care products and Vit. C works the same on the outside as it does on the inside. It helps prevent early aging. I also know that last year I was having major stomach issues, so bad that I couldn't hold anything down & lost 32 lbs in a matter of three months. I think most was due to my diet and it really opened my eyes. I've been drinking water with lemon in it on and off for the past year and I love it! Makes me feel refreshed in the morning (I've never been a coffee drinker). I do need to invest in some of these glass straws and a press. I've never seen those before and I hate plastic anything. Since I've been drinking water with lemon I am not having my stomach issues anymore & I'm not taking the meds that I was told to take. The side affects to me looked more harmful than good. So learning about the benefits of food & drinks has helped me make better choices for me and my children & that makes me very happy! BTW I got rid of all my plastic in my house that had anything to do with food that I could. If you read up on plastic it's really scary the problems it can cause. Another thing I wasn't taught when I was younger. I remember thinking plastic was wonderful and going to help us vs. hurt us. Thank you Amy for putting information out here to try to help others. Keep up the good work! :)
ReplyDeleteI usually drink three glasses of water to start my day and now I will definitely be adding lemon!
ReplyDeleteI have a stainless steel press like that! I am going to implement this starting tomorrow as one of my habits.
ReplyDeletei just started drinking lemon a week ago... But in a different way.. I drink a shot of 30cc lemon in the morning....after some 10 minutes i drink water, eat banana, then breakfast... after breakfast, i have that feeling of wanting to use the toilet (LOL).. Anyway, this morning I will mix lemon with water and see how it'll work for me..
ReplyDeleteAnyway, I got lost and just tadaaah in your blog... you should check mine so you'll know why i suddenly got interested with yours! LOL :)
www.niqueinit.blogspot.com
NIQUE
You put it very simply in your 5 reasons. I've been reading about lemons elsewhere and using it daily for a few months although I have always adored lemons.
ReplyDeleteQUESTION: My lemons have tasted AWFUL lately and I keep feeling disappointed. I'm guessing maybe its a seasonal thing I don't know. Anyone else ever go through a spell of not yummy lemons? I've tried buying them in different stores but no help!
I buy a bag of lemons, juice them, and freeze the juice in ice-cube trays. Store the lemon-juice cubes in a ziplock bag in the freezer, and use one cube in glass of water. Saves time and money.
ReplyDeletedo you juice the whole thing??? Love this idea!
DeleteLove your blog found you on pinterest, have you ever tried true lemon, not the one in the plastic lemon, it is 100% natural. like to keep in purse so can use in water or tea all day. Was freaked out years ago after reading about using lemons from restaurants may not be washed and contain bacteria. Wash your lemons. Thanks for your great blog, showers of blessings and healing on you today :-)
ReplyDeleteI have used lemon in my water for years, I love the taste it is so refreshing! I use the true lemon also, it is much easier then squeezing! But same great taste..
ReplyDeleteI use 1/2 a lemon in a 24 oz mason jar. I save the other half for later in the day.
ReplyDeleteas a dental hygienist i love that you added the straw :) chew some gum after, (to wash away the acid) or eat a protein source (this helps neutralize the acid) and wait at least 30 minutes before brushing (if you do it any sooner you can brush the acid into your teeth and erode enamel)
ReplyDeleteI have heard that lemon is hard on enamel.
DeleteVery Interesting stuff. I also use the True Lime product with some Truvia for sweetner in my water - I love the taste of it:-. Have you ever heard of the True Lime product? They have lemon and some other flavors also. Convenient for on the go for sure!!
ReplyDeletewhat about using Real Lemon Juice from a bottle... would that have the same effect?
ReplyDeleteLOVE all the info!! Here is a link to a juicer - cheapest one I could find via internet: http://www.thegourmetdepotco.com/metrokane/3502c-mighty-oj-citrus-juicer-white-chrome/
ReplyDeleteOK negative anonymous, you need to disappear.
ReplyDeleteHey just wanted to add that I just read an article about how added lemon juice (or any citrus for that matter), increases the efficacy of absorption of lots of the antioxidants and beneficial plant chemicals in green tea, more so than green tea alone. So combining the two is also another good idea. Thanks for the article! I think I might start making lemon water a new part of my morning routine!
ReplyDeleteI don't drink lemon water every day but I do love it! I drink it quite frequently at restaurants and, lately, I have been making an effort to drink more water. I really don't care for the taste of just plain water (even the bottled kind) so I add lemon juice to it. I'm going to have to start doing that more frequently (and I loved one of the commentors idea to juice several lemons and freeze them!).
ReplyDeleteI also like mixing other fruits in water and letting the whole thing sit over night. Yummy and healthy - certainly more so than soda!!!
I get water when we are at a restaurant with my granddaughter. She wants lemonaid so I put Truvia (Stevia) in to give it a sweet taste. She loves that we can make our own lemonaid!!
ReplyDeleteI drink lemon water every morning, I have seen all the results listed above. I do however, drink my lemon with warm water, because sometimes cold water in the morning can shock your metabolism.
ReplyDeleteThe very best way to get the juice from lemons, limes, oranges, etc is the old fashioned glass juicers where you twist it back and forth. I have tried several other juicers and go back to my good old standby every single time. I love thriftstores so when I see one I grab it.......never know when a friend is gonna see how great they are and want one!!
ReplyDeleteI've been drinking a 12-16 oz glass of warmed water with a lime/lemon freshly squeezed first thing in the morning for about a month and I have to admit, it was a taste I grew to appreciate. I've lost 5 lbs with just this simple, little change in my lifestyle and diet. I am originally from India but grew up in the States. Drinking warm or room temperature lime/lemon water is something my mom use to do to lose weight! IT WORKS!!! But i was told not to add any sugar or sweetner to it.
ReplyDeleteSometimes, I drink an 8 oz glass before lunch or end up day with a warm glass of lime/lemon water.
hope this helps.
Amy I've been drinking lemon water like you since my diagnosis and besides the good taste I feel it helps me feel clean inside! I warm up the water a bit and leave the squeezed lemon soaking a bit then drink the juice! Wishing us both the best of luck! My inspiration is also Kris Karr! We re survivors already and gonna make it :) xx
ReplyDeletehow much lemon and water to use to be effective?
ReplyDeleteYou can also use the lemon peel in your bath! It smells great and gives your skin a nice boost in the winter! Just store the peel in an air tight container in the fridge. Cut into small slices and put in a hot bath or even a foot soak!
ReplyDeleteI have the same juicer in stainless steel! See William Sonoma!
ReplyDeleteI love reading your blog!!! Thanks for all the great info. I have a funny story about lemon water. We were at a famous restaurant in Chicago called Ed Debevics... If your not familiar with this particular restaurant they are famous for their "rude service" anyway, I ordered lemon with water and our waiters come back to me was that I was just to cheap to pay for the lemonade. Lol it's a fun place to visit if you ever visit the Windy City.
ReplyDeletefound you on Pinterest... love it... I can only say for myself but I have been drinking tap water with a qtr wedge of lemon 2 to 3 times a day for six months and have lots 28 pounds. I exercise three times a week a the Y. Also cut out all sugar. I believe the lemon water has been instrumental in making my metabolism work better. I asked my doctor about the lemon and my teeth and they said as long as I don't let the water just sit in your mouth it is fine to drink lemon water, if you want using a straw cant hurt either....I have also used True Lemon that product is great.... and warm water or tap water is easier to digest.... wonderful article, thank you AMY....
ReplyDeleteCould you use lime instead of lemon? I prefer the taste of lime over lemon.
ReplyDeleteAmen to testing your PH! I'm a Lifestyle educator by trade (admittedly, I do not always practice what I preach) I have found the best way to keep yourself healthy is by testing your ph and striving to keep it balanced. Citrus is awesome in moderation so a little lemon diluted isn't going to hurt (only help).
ReplyDeleteHelps prevent kidney stones also!
ReplyDeleteI'm not seeing the link to the lemon presses on amazon. I could just go find them myself but I'd really love to be able to use your link!
ReplyDeletethere is a juicer that looks just like this on amazon that is chrome colored called Metrokane Mighty OJ Manual Juicer, Chrome. looks nice.
ReplyDeleteJust how much do you drink? 8oz, a full jar? what? And how many times a day?
ReplyDeleteI love this idea and have always been told that drinking lemon ice water first thing in the morning is the best way to jump start your metabolism. That being said, I'm a nurse in a hospital and the alkaline "fact" is false. When your body neutralizes acid, it turns neutral. Your body never over compensates. And if your body becomes more alkalitic on the pH scale it's actually BAD for oxygenation as your hemoglobin have a higher affinity and do not distribute the oxygen to the tissues. Alkaline pH is very, very dangerous. But don't worry, because lemon water doesn't make your body alkalitic anyway :) moral of the story: Lemon ice water is very good for you!
ReplyDeleteWatching a 90210 episode (season 1, I think). Pretty sure I saw the same juicer being used in the kitchen. Wouldn't have even paid attention if I hadn't read this! Maybe they aren't too impossible to find . . .
ReplyDeleteHi, I gave up the lemon water cleanse as I started getting headaches. My friend warned me against continuing this as her nutritionist told her that to neutralise the acid the body leaches calcium from the bones. I'm concerned about osteoporosis. Does anyone know better?
ReplyDeleteHi Amy and everyone else. I have very unhealthy habits at the moment...one of them being drinking one, two or even three diet soft drinks a day. I am turning 40 this year and reading your blog and all the comments have inspired me to take better care of myself and respect my body. Thank you for your motivation everyone. Off to buy some lemons tonorrow... and sparkling water!!
ReplyDelete* tomorrow!
ReplyDeleteLime water with a tbl spoon of honey in Luke warm water taken on empty stomach first thing in the morning cleanses your system and recharges your body. This is widely known and practiced in India. There are several benefits already listed in this post. See many more people who have benefited from this across the globe On benefits of honey.com website
ReplyDeleteHere's another lemony-wake-you-up-in-the-morning idea: Soaked Oats. The night before, mix one cup of oats, one cup of almond or rice milk, and 1/2 a grate lemon rind. Cover and put in the fridge overnight. Its a healthy, refreshing breakfast. I'll be adding lemon water to my mornings as well!
ReplyDeleteHello Amy,
ReplyDeleteI am a cancer from last survivor as well (3 years from last treatment, diagnosed at 35yrs old.). I had cervical cancer and due to internal radiation, ahve been plagued by recurring UTI's.
Your post reminded me of an article I read once in the waiting room about PH in cancer patients. Thank you for posting something so wonderful and easy to do. I have slid down the slippery slope of unhealthiness and really want to change not only for my health, but for my 4 kiddos and hubby as well. I wish the very best in your battle and treatments-I will keep you in my heart and prayers.-Jodi
Oh there is soooo much wrong with this scientifically. There are a couple things wrong here, but let's focus on the big one: pH. The author seems to think that drinking one pint of water infused with lemon can alter your body's pH balance. If it could, you would want to avoid it, as it would be a deadly poison. The body naturally keeps the pH of various fluids and tissues balanced in a tiny range of values, and anything you do to try to nudge it out of that range is countered by a process called homeostasis (meaning "self regulation"). Also, I have no idea how the author thinks that the acid in lemon water turns into a base via human metabolism. And CANCER? You think you can cure cancer by drinking lemonade? Listening to this kind of stuff is, frankly, dangerous to your health. This time it's just a bunch of misguided stuff about lemon juice, but there are people out there who say the same things about arsenic and chelating compounds, which can actually kill you.
ReplyDeleteFurthermore, all of the positive effects you have mentioned can be attributed to, get this, drinking water. Sure you are adding some vitamin C with the juice, but if you aren't already getting your daily dose of Vit. C from your diet, adding lemon to water isn't the first thing you should be working on improving.
Before everyone gets into a Science vs. The Internet war, can I just humbly suggest that the benefits of drinking water speak for themselves without bring in these falsities?
ReplyDeleteYes, obviously your followers don't think you have a PhD in biology, Amy, and they're not coming to this blog with the intention of getting a medical lesson, so you can make these claims and people will go "Hm, that's interesting, I wonder if that works, I'll try it!" And, truly, nobody gets hurt.
But water is healthy for so many real, honest, verifiable reasons there's really no need to make claims that you don't support and probably shouldn't with your background (I'm assuming) even if you could.
This is your blog, and you can do whatever you want (as long as it doesn't mislead people to hurt themselves, which this post does not). But I think the scientists taking objection here have a point, however inflammatory their means of expressing it may be. There's just no need to pass on false knowledge. Maybe you truly believe in the legitimacy of the places you read about this, but if you don't know if it's real or fake, if you don't personally understand the mechanisms at work, that should indicate to you that you shouldn't pass it on. It's simple and it's fair to your readers.
I LOVE LOVE LOVE LEMON IN MY WATER!!Thank you for writing this about Lemon water.I too feel like Lemon Water wakes me up more than a cup of coffee most mornings. I am not a Pop drinker so water is my go to drink,and unsweetened iced green tea with lemon. So I just wanted to say thanks for the information about lemon water ,
ReplyDeleteMy Mom is now 90. She told me her Dad, my Grandfather used to do this every morning he got up. He passed away when he was 97. Obviously, there is something to this. Thanks for sharing. Getting a glass right now.
ReplyDeleteI love this. Def. going to go get some lemons!
ReplyDeleteWOW! I had no idea that lemon water was so incredibly good for you. I have had kidney stones, gall stones (gallbladder was removed) and need to lose weight. I have always liked the taste, but rarely opt for it. I've been trying to wean myself off of so much diet-soda and switched to Crystal Light. Of course, there's a bunch of chemicals in that too. I'll have to go buy a bag of lemons and a juicer tonight and try the lemon water idea. -Thanks for the tip about the lemon juice in the mineral water also... Sometimes there's just nothing like a fizzy drink! (And it gives me another alternative to soda/alcohol when we're out and about.) Thank you so much!!
ReplyDeleteHow do you make it?
ReplyDeleteThe lemon water sounds really good and I will try it soon. If you don't want to squeeze a lemon some days use a Tbs. of Braggs Organic Apple Cider Vinegar (not regular vinegar because of processing). You can get Braggs Vinegar at most supermarkets and health stores. If you drink vinegar mix it into a small glass of WARM water. You can sweeten it with honey if you like.
ReplyDeleteI 100% believe in drink lots of water all day as it is good for the body. I myself keep it on hand all day long so I don't reach for juice or soda. I did want to let you know that though lemons are filled with vitamin c, ingesting it doesn't benefit the skin in quit the manner you are explaining it. I'm a licensed Skin Care Specialist. If you want it to protect your skin the best way is to use it topically. I'm not saying its bad for you, quit the opposite, but if you want it to protect and fight aging it really should be used topically. You also need to be aware that it is really hard for the skin to absorb. Vitamin C can also be very unstable so you need to use derivative that has been stabilized. Ascorbyl Palmitate is one of the best Vitamin C derivative because it's the most stable and easlier absorbed by the skin. If Vitamin C is used properly it will not only fight free radicals but it will help boost collagen production. Thanks for all the other tips!
ReplyDelete