Can Lemon Water Actually Aid in Weight Loss?

Lemon water seems to be a big thing right now, especially amongst celebrities. Naomi Campbell says she replaces coffee with lemon water complete with probiotics. Gwyneth Paltrow says she drinks it to detox. Lauren Conrad claims it is a great energizer as well as cleanser. And Miranda Kerr likes to drink it because “it kickstarts the digestive system.”

Can it really do all of that? Let nutritionists and doctors give you the lowdown.

Lemon water and weight loss.

“Lemons are rich in potassium, which is a key nutrient for healthy metabolism. Also, since it aids in the digestion of proteins and fats, it may play an indirect role in the production and fueling of muscles that can improve your ability to burn calories,” says triple board-certified nutritionist Dana James. So if you replace your morning donut with it, then sure, you’ll slim down.

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Lemon water and your liver.

“The bitterness from the lemon can stimulate bile flow. Bile is used to bind up the fats and fat soluble toxins so it can be taken out of the body,” notes Dr. James. Dr. Passler says, “When the bitter tastebuds are activated on your tongue they start a cascade of effects that can improve the liver and gallbladder’s ability to metabolize fat.” And Dr. Gina Sam, M.D., M.P.H., who is the director of the Gastrointestinal Motility Center at The Mount Sinai Hospital says, “There is no [scientific] data that says it metabolizes your bile, or helps you lose weight. I think that’s just a myth.”

Can it have an alkalizing effect on the body?

Lemons have antioxidant properties, and some believe they can provide your body with a more ideal alkaline pH level. “Lemon water is a good source of several alkalizing minerals such as calcium and potassium. When lemon juice is consumed, its minerals may dissociate in the bloodstream to have an alkalizing effect,” notes Dr. Passler. Dr. Lancer says, “The body’s metabolic process breaks down the acids and allows the mineral content of the lemons to alkalize our blood and digestive system.”

Do you drink lemon water regularly?

For other helpful weight loss advice, check out the BodyRock Meal Plan!

Source: Forbes

 

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