Lemon Water Benefits: 5 Reasons Why It’s the Perfect Start to Your Day

Lemon water benefits are a hot topic of conversation. While some claim it’s their secret to feeling healthy and energized, others say that there’s no true value in drinking it. Neither extreme is completely true—no drink can work a miracle, but lemon water can provide the body with a number of health benefits. Here’s what nutritionist and dietitian Montse Folcha has to say about lemon water.

Does lemon water help prevent abdominal bloating?

Most people who advocate drinking (usually warm) water with lemon typically do so in the morning on an empty stomach. This helps purify the body and activate the metabolism.

“Lemon is an acid,” Dr. Folcha says. “It helps to balance the stomach’s natural acid levels, which promotes healthy digestion and subsequently prevents abdominal bloating.” The doctor recommends adding certain spices to your lemon water to enhance its de-bloating benefits—think fennel, basil, parsley, dill, cumin, or coriander.

Can lemon water help improve digestion?

“Lemon water helps the stomach effectively secrete gastric juices,” explains Dr. Folcha. “This leads to better digestion in general. Those who suffer from excess stomach acidity—such as gastric reflux—should avoid drinking lemon water as it can make the issue worse.”

Does lemon water quench thirst?

“Lemon naturally contains different acids (such as citric) which stimulate production of saliva and relieve thirst,” says Dr. Folcha. Just be careful to always mix with water—drinking lemon alone can damage your tooth enamel.

Does lemon water improve the appearance of the skin?

Our skin loves vitamin C, which can be found in all citrus fruits, including lemons. Studies show that consuming vitamin C helps improve the appearance of skin, and Dr. Folcha agrees. “Vitamin C is necessary for the proper functioning of blood vessels and for bone, tooth, and skin health. It also helps with the formation of collagen and the stimulation of the body’s natural wound-healing mechanisms.”

Is lemon water good for overall health?

On top of helping with digestion and skin, Dr. Folcha says drinking water with lemon regularly is fantastic for overall wellness: “It can help stimulate the immune system, giving you a better chance of fighting off infections.” In addition, it’s a great drink to consume anytime you’re feeling sick—add a little honey or ginger to help with a cold.

This article first appeared on Vogue España.