Why Should you Drink a Glass of Warm Water with Lemon in the Morning?

Valeria Sabater

Written and verified by the psychologist Valeria Sabater.

Last update: 15 November, 2021

Water with lemon

Drinking a glass of warm water with lemon in the morning is a healthy habit.  Although it’s not a miracle tonic, this simple, natural remedy is good for your body and your brain.  It hydrates you. It gives you potassium. It is a source of Vitamin C and you also benefit from it’s alkaline properties.

The benefits of drinking water with lemon are written about a lot. In fact, we could say that very few other natural remedies are as well known. Certain stories remind us generation after generation that “with garlic and lemon for infection, you will not need even one injection”. Or  “if you want to live long with no pain, an orange at night and lemon juice in the morn again and again”.

Now, what is the real truth? Is water with lemon as fabulous as they tell us? The answer is no. Drinking a glass of warm water with lemon does not cure anything. It will not make you lose weight. It will not cure you of a cold. It will not fade age spots. However, thanks to its micronutrients, flavonoids and organic acids, it will contribute to a better internal balance. 

It will strengthen the immune system and be a good cardiovascular and neuroprotective agent. Basically, this simple concoction is something that should be included in our daily routine. It’s worth it.

Woman drinking warm water with lemon

What warm water with lemon does for the brain

Citrus fruits, especially lemons, are good for brain health. This is because they contain flavonoids such as hesperidin. This type of compound may be helpful overall but is particularly good for improving blood circulation. Another interesting fact is that these natural substances reduce the risk of suffering a stroke. The Nutrition Research Center of Boston and other institutions found this information to be true in various studies.

Second, and no less important,  we mustn’t forget that lemon is rich in potassium. This mineral nourishes and promotes the activity of nerve cells. Therefore, if you drink a glass of warm water with lemon in the morning, many of your cognitive processes will improve. 

Correctly digest and absorb the nutrients

It may be a little uncomfortable at first. When we wake up we want coffee, something sweet, milk, toast… So, thinking of a glass of warm water with lemon in the morning may make you grimace. However, in the long run, you will notice the benefits and the effort will be worth it.

First of all, it will be worth it because your digestion will improve. Drinking a glass of warm water on an empty stomach is the key. If you don’t have ulcers or other health problems, the warm water relaxes the stomach muscles. This makes the removal of toxins through the intestines easier. 

Second, it promotes a cleaner interior climate making it easier to absorb nutrients. With a more hydrated and alkaline digestive system, your body will use the nutrients from your breakfast more efficiently. 

Hombre fortaleciendo defensas gracias a beber agua tibia con limón por las mañanas

A stronger immune system

We pointed out at the beginning that drinking warm water with lemon in the morning does not cure diseases. However, what it will do is strengthen your immune system. Your defenses against viruses and germs will be fortified. Even though the amount of lemon juice in the water is not very high, you accumulate its nutrients daily.

Lemon is not only rich in Vitamin C. It’s pulp and skin contain a treasure of B vitamins and multiple other minerals. Therefore, this small effort in the morning is worth it. Your defenses will thank you.

Reduce stress

This data is interesting. Research from two years ago shows that Vitamin C helps reduce stress. As we know, supplements rich in Vitamin C are sold in pharmacies. Many who bought these supplements consumed it without knowing that it did more than strengthen the defenses.

Vitamin C reduces cortisol in the blood. This helps you to be more relaxed and focused. Therefore, drinking a glass of water with lemon on an empty stomach is once again, a gift to your brain. It doesn’t cost anything, it’s simple and you will notice the results.

Fórmula química del cortisol, y clave del estrés, un aspecto que reduce el simple hecho de beber agua tibia con limón por las mañanas

In conclusion, it’s only fitting to mention another small point. Each person has their own level of tolerance to citrus. The ideal formula is to combine a glass of water with the juice of half a lemon. You should also try to make sure the lemon is organic. That way, you are sure it retains all of its vitamins and properties. 

In any case, if you feel this amount is wrong for you, do not hesitate to decrease the dose. Sometimes a simple squeezed slice can be of benefit to you. The important thing is to be consistent and maintain a healthy lifestyle. 


This text is provided for informational purposes only and does not replace consultation with a professional. If in doubt, consult your specialist.