Amy FriendDecember 29, 2015

Warm lemon water is the perfect beverage to kickoff your day in a healthy way. It only requires two ingredients. And it’s an easy daily habit to form since it only takes a few minutes to make. 

How you make warm lemon water matters if you want to reap its full benefits. First, pour 12 to 16 ounces of warm purified water into a glass. Avoid ice cold water as it takes a lot of energy for the body to process. Next, use fresh organic lemons. If not available, lemon juice will work if it’s 100% pure and organic. Squeeze 1/2 a lemon (or 2 Tablespoons of lemon juice) into your glass of warm water. A healthy bonus would be adding freshly grated ginger or a shake of cayenne pepper. Drink it down first thing upon waking. Then allow your body to process it for about 30 minutes before eating. The following are some of the benefits of drinking warm lemon water first thing in the morning.

• Digestion. Lemon juice helps to flush toxins from the digestive system, and the warm water helps to rehydrate your body after it’s been sleeping for several hours. This is a great way to get your body and your mind going.
• A natural flush. During sleep, your liver is actively helping your body to restore and regenerate. Drinking water in the morning helps your body perform these jobs most effectively. Research has shown that lemon juice can help stimulate proper stomach acid and bile production.
• Boosts the immune system. Lemons are high in vitamin C, which is great for fighting colds. They also contain potassium.
• Cleaner skin. Vitamin C is needed for collagen production for smooth, healthy skin.
• Healthy weight. Lemons are high in pectin fiber, which helps fight hunger cravings. There is evidence that drinking lemon water first thing in the morning, when combined with a healthy diet, can help maintain a healthy weight. This puts you on the road for making better nutrition choices throughout the day.

Personally, I feel rejuvenated and energized physically, mentally and emotionally. The fresh scent of lemons alone puts me in a great mood and I am ready for the day! This is an easy habit to establish and maintain. Get some lemons and start tomorrow!

Be healthy,

Amy