The Healing Power of Lemon & Salt Water
When you wake up in the morning, what is the first thing you like drink? Do you reach for coffee or tea right away, or do you start with a glass of water? Have you tried starting your day with lemon water? Even better, with a pinch salt? Every morning, before I have my tea, I squeeze fresh lemons into a glass of room temperature water. I add a squirt of Buoy hydration drops, but a pinch of salt works just as well.
Why is it important to hydrate first thing in the morning? After sleeping for six to eight hours, our bodies need rehydration. Lemons are rich in vitamin C, citric acid, and polyphenols, which are powerful antioxidants. Drinking lemon water supports gut health, boosts the immune system, stimulates digestion, can prevent kidney stones, and even supports eye health. Lemons are naturally acidic, but when metabolized by the body, they have an alkaline effect, helping to balance the body’s pH levels. For those with sensitive teeth, drinking lemon water through a straw may help protect the enamel from acidity.
Why add a pinch of salt? We need sodium for nerve function, muscle contractions, and maintaining the balance of water and minerals in our bodies. Too much salt can increase our risk for developing hypertension, osteoporosis or kidney disease. Too little salt can cause nausea, confusion, or fatigue. Look for good quality salt like sea salt or Himalayan salt not table salt. We need a balance of sodium and potassium to maintain proper homeostasis in the body.
It’s important to stay hydrated throughout the day. How much water are you drinking? A simple way to keep track is by carrying a reusable, BPA and plastic-free water bottle with you. Personally, I love my Hydro Flasks! They’re made of stainless steel and vacuum insulated. You can also set hourly reminders on your phone to help you remember to drink water regularly.
~References~
1. Shimizu C, Wakita Y, Inoue T, et al. Effects of lifelong intake of lemon polyphenols on aging and intestinal microbiome in the senescence-accelerated mouse prone 1 (SAMP1). Sci Rep. 2019
2. Jana P, Pradhan AS. Medicinal and Health Benefits of Lemon. Journal of Science & Technology (JST). 2021
3. Salt and Sodium. The Nutrition Source. July 18, 2013. https://nutritionsource.hsph.harvard.edu/salt-and-sodium/
