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How much is too much lemon water?

However, excess intake of lemon water may cause side effects like tooth decay, sunburns, canker sores, heartburn or acid reflux, migraine, and frequent urination. Though there are no listed dosage levels of lemon water, consuming one or two glasses of lemon water a day is considered safe.

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Lemon water is consumed by many for its refreshing taste. But, because of its acidic nature, excess intake of lemon water may harm the tooth enamel. There are also some other side effects of lemon water you should be aware of if you plan to consume it regularly. Know what research says about these negative effects and how you can prevent them. Read on.

What Are The Side Effects Of Too Much Lemon Water?

Overconsumption of lemon water may cause several adverse reactions. Allyson Brigham , MS, RDN, says, “ It is common for tooth enamel to deteriorate due to the citric acid in lemon juice. There are also side effects, such as stomach cramps and gastrointestinal problems.” She adds, “The body’s reaction to too much acidity in the stomach can be very painful and cause serious problems if left untreated. If you experience this symptom, stop drinking lemon water immediately.”

Listed below are the side effects. Take a look!

1. May Decay Tooth Enamel

A study discusses a female patient (smoker) who experienced erosion of the enamel and dentinal hypersensitivity following the frequent consumption of lemon juice (lemon water). Excess intake of lemon water may lead to acidic demineralization of the tooth enamel (1). Another Brazilian study proved the same. Lemon juice displayed corrosive effects on the teeth similar to that of soft drinks. All of them are equally acidic (2). Brushing your teeth immediately after consuming lemon water may help prevent the erosion. You may also start brushing and flossing twice a day for better results (3). You may also drink lemon water using a straw to prevent tooth decay.

2. May Cause Sunburns

Certain studies indicate that heading out into the sun after applying lemon juice to your skin can cause blisters and dark spots. This condition is called phytophotodermatitis and is a worse form of sunburn. Allyson Brigham says,“ Lemons sting or even burn the skin because they are highly acidic.” The culprits are the chemicals in lemon juice, called psoralens, which interact with sunlight and cause burn (4). In another study, citrus consumption was linked to an increased risk of melanoma (skin cancer). The effect was attributed to the presence of psoralens in most citrus fruits. However, further studies are needed to better understand the effects of citrus fruit/juice on skin health (5).

3. May Aggravate Canker Sores

Canker sores are a form of mouth ulcers. These are shallow sores inside the mouth (or the base of the gums), and they are painful. Some research states that citric acid may provoke mouth ulcers (6). The mechanism of how citric acid may lead to this is yet to be understood. The citric acid in lemons can worsen your sores and also cause more. Hence, ensure you don’t take lemons (or any citrus fruit) if you have canker sores. Wait for them to heal completely. Did You Know? Although its origins are vague, lemons are believed to have first grown in China, Assam, or Northern Myanmar. They were introduced to the Mediterranean in 100 AD, Spain in 400 AD, and Persian, Egypt, and Iraq in 700 AD.

4. May Aggravate Heartburn

Some research considers citrus fruits to be causing heartburn or acid reflux. In studies, patients who complained of similar gastrointestinal symptoms were found to be consuming more of citrus fruits and juices (7). However, the information in this aspect is mixed. Anecdotal evidence suggests that lemon water can both hurt and help heartburn symptoms. If you have heartburn symptoms, it is best to check with your doctor before consuming lemon water (or other citrus foods/fluids). It is also thought that lemon may activate pepsin, which is a stomach enzyme that breaks down proteins. Reflux of the digestive juices in the stomach is believed to activate the inactive pepsin molecules in the throat and esophagus, leading to heartburn. More research is needed to substantiate this. Lemon juice may also decrease the effectiveness of the lower esophageal sphincter muscle and instead allow the stomach acid to splash up the esophagus. The juice may also worsen peptic ulcers. Ulcers are formed by excessively acidic digestive juices. Drinking lemon juice (and eating other acidic foods) can only make things worse. Certain experts speculate that lemon juice can also trigger GERD symptoms. Hence, avoid lemons if these symptoms are triggered, as the response varies.

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The intake of lemon water on an empty stomach is also thought to trigger GERD symptoms, although there is no evidence to support this.

5. May Trigger Migraine In Patients

There is some research that citrus fruits may trigger migraines. The fruits may induce a migraine attack through an allergic reaction. Tyramine, a specific substance in citrus fruits, could be the culprit (8).

6. May Lead To Frequent Urination

There is no research that proves that excess lemon water may lead to frequent urination. If you experience the same due to excess intake of lemon water, it may have more to do with the water, and not the lemon itself. Some believe that lemon juice, especially in a glass of warm water, can act as a diuretic. It can increase urine output, and if this goes overboard, you may end up feeling dehydrated. This is because the juice from lemon rids your body of the excess water. In the process, it can also flush out excess amounts of electrolytes and sodium through urine. At times, it can flush out too much of them and cause dehydration. However, research is lacking in this aspect. It also is believed that acidic fruits like lemons can irritate the bladder. This may increase the urge to urinate more often. Though there is no evidence to support this, you can avoid lemon water and other acidic fruits for about a week and see if your symptoms improve. If not, consult your doctor. Lemon water is also believed to cause excess iron content in the blood, although there is no research to support this. The vitamin C in lemon water may increase iron absorption, but this was only found to help with iron deficiency anemia (in rat studies) (9). It also is believed that lemon water may trigger nausea or vomiting. This may be attributed to its vitamin C content. There also have been cases of vomiting following excess intake of lemon water (more than 2 lemons or 3 cups of diluted lemon juice). Theories suggest that the body would flush out the excess vitamin C, triggering the symptoms. However, there is no evidence to support this. Most of the side effects attributed to lemon water are yet to be studied. Excess intake of the beverage can erode the tooth enamel and may aggravate sunburns or trigger migraines. The other side effects need more research to substantiate the findings.

Is there a way to drink lemon juice and avoid the side effects? Is there a safe dosage?

What Is The Recommended Dosage Of Lemons/Lemon Juice?

The ideal dosage of lemon water depends on the user’s age, health, etc. There is not enough scientific information to determine the ideal dosage of lemon/lemon water. But from anecdotal evidence, about a glass or two of lemon water (about 120 ml) per day seems to be safe. Fun Fact During ancient Roman times, lemons were treated as a luxury food exclusive to the upper class elite due to their medicinal properties.

Do Lemons Have Any Interactions With Medications?

Though lemons don’t severely interact with any medications, certain studies shed light on the interactions of other citrus fruits (grapefruit juice) with calcium antagonists (medications that disrupt the movement of calcium through calcium channels, which are used for treating hypertension) (10). Though the citrus juice could increase the bio availability of the medication, its effects on the human body may not be desirable. Another Japanese study recommends that patients avoid the intake of citrus juice while on medications as the juice might interact with them, causing potential hazards (11). There is insufficient information on the interactions lemon water might have with herbs. Infographic- Side Effects Of Overconsumption Of Lemon Water It is not just refreshing to drink lemon water, it’s also very beneficial to your health as it contains Vitamin C and minerals. But lemon water can also have some serious side effects if consumed above a limit. Check out the infographic given below to know about the side effects caused by the overconsumption of lemon water. Lemon water is known for its refreshing taste and antioxidant properties. The phenolic compounds in lemon water offer several health benefits. However, excess intake of lemon water may cause side effects like tooth decay, sunburns, canker sores, heartburn or acid reflux, migraine, and frequent urination. Though there are no listed dosage levels of lemon water, consuming one or two glasses of lemon water a day is considered safe.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Does lemon affect female fertility?

Allyson says, “Citric acid is a natural antiseptic that can help balance your body’s pH levels, which can help reduce vaginal alkalinity. In addition to fighting infertility-causing bacteria, citric acid also aids in the treatment of a number of other health conditions.”

Does the intake of lemon water every morning weaken your bones?

There is no research that supports this. Hence, you can go for it. But if you have come across someone facing such issues due to the intake of lemon water in the mornings, do consult your doctor.

What are the side effects of lemons on hair? Does it decolorize hair?

Side effects of lemons on the hair, if frequently used, may include damage to the scalp, given the acidic nature of the fruits. This nature of lemons can also turn your hair gray. To avoid this, use lemon juice along with some warm hair oil. This ensures your scalp doesn’t get dried up.

Can you drink lemon water at night?

Yes. There are no known adverse effects of drinking lemon water at night.

Does lemon water harm your kidneys?

The citric acid in lemon water may help treat kidney stones. There is no evidence if lemon water may harm the kidneys. Sources Articles on StyleCraze are backed by verified information from peer-reviewed and academic research papers, reputed organizations, research institutions, and medical associations to ensure accuracy and relevance. Check out our editorial policy for further details. Particular dental erosion, The Pan African Medical Journal, US National Library of Medicine, National Institutes of Health.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6235510/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6235510/ In vitro study of enamel erosion caused by soft drinks and lemon juice in deciduous teeth analysed by stereomicroscopy and scanning electron microscopy, Caries Research, US National Library of Medicine, National Institutes of Health.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/8877092

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/8877092 When life gives you lemons, make lemon water, University of Florida.

https://podcasts.ufhealth.org/when-life-gives-you-lemons-make-lemon-water/

https://podcasts.ufhealth.org/when-life-gives-you-lemons-make-lemon-water/ A tropical skin eruption, The Canadian Journal of Infectious Diseases, US National Library of Medicine, National Institutes of Health.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2094864/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2094864/ Citrus Consumption and Risk of Cutaneous Malignant Melanoma, Journal of Clinical Oncology, US National Library of Medicine, National Institutes of Health.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4979231/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4979231/ Canker sores from allergy to weak organic acids (citric and acetic): Case report and clinical study, Journal of Allergy, ScienceDirect.

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/002187075690154X

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/002187075690154X Risk factors for gastroesophageal reflux disease: the role of diet, Przeglad Gastroenterologiczny, US National Library of Medicine, National Institutes of Health.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4223119/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4223119/ Diet and migraine, Revista de neurologia, US National Library of Medicine, National Institutes of Health.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/8681169

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/8681169 Effects of Citric Acid and Lemon Juice on Iron Absorption and Improvement of Anemia in Iron-Deficient Rats, Food, Science, and Technology Research, US National Library of Medicine, National Institutes of Health.

https://www.jstage.jst.go.jp/article/fstr/18/1/18_127/_pdf

Anemia in Iron-Deficient Rats, Food, Science, and Technology Research, US National Library of Medicine, National Institutes of Health. https://www.jstage.jst.go.jp/article/fstr/18/1/18_127/_pdf Interaction of citrus juices with pranidipine, a new 1,4-dihydropyridine calcium antagonist, in healthy subjects, European Journal of Clinical Pharmacology, US National Library of Medicine, National Institutes of Health.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/9923580

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/9923580 Undesirable effects of citrus juice on the pharmacokinetics of drugs: focus on recent studies, Drug Safety, US National Library of Medicine, National Institutes of Health.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16048354

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16048354 Fermented Citrus Lemon Reduces Liver Injury Induced by Carbon Tetrachloride in Rats, US National Library of Medicine, National Institutes of Health.

https://www.hindawi.com/journals/ecam/2018/6546808/

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