Is Warm Lime Juice in the Morning Bad for Your Stomach?

A lot of individuals think that consuming hot lemonade first thing in the morning aids in cleansing the system and supports weight reduction, whereas some warn that it might upset their digestion. What's actually accurate here? (Lien, 32, Hanoi)

Answer:

Consuming watered-down lime juice early in the day may provide various health advantages if taken appropriately and if it aligns with your bodily requirements. Combining squeezed lime with lukewarm water (around 40-50°C) and omitting sugar can mildly activate the digestion process following hours of rest, helping to replenish fluids in the body. provide vitamin C , enhance immune function, and alleviate sensations of slight queasiness or lethargy.

If you suffer from stomach ulcers, significant acid reflux, intense stomach cramps, or diarrhea, it's advisable to steer clear of consuming lime juice. Additionally, refrain from using extremely tart limes, bypassing the dilution step, or ingesting lime juice when your stomach is completely empty.

A detailed image of a glass filled with lime juice. Stock illustration provided by Pexels.

For those aiming for weight reduction,lime juice alone doesn’t melt away fat. Nonetheless, its citric acid along with Vitamin C might offer a minor enhancement to your metabolism. When combined with a well-rounded, scientifically-backed nutritional plan, consuming warm lime juice could potentially aid in managing body weight through increased alertness and decreased hunger levels.

No scientific proof supports the assertion that lime juice helps detoxify the liver or cleanse the body. The human body possesses natural mechanisms for detoxification, and while lime juice may provide some minor assistance, it should be part of a broader nutritious diet to truly make a difference.

In general, lime juice proves advantageous when used appropriately. It's crucial to understand the correct amount and timing for consumption, particularly if you suffer from gastric problems or acid reflux. A moderate approach involves combining roughly one-quarter to one-half of a lime with 250-300 ml of lukewarm water. An addition is optional. Add a bit of unprocessed honey. Or add a couple of slices of ginger. Consume it following tooth-brushing and swallowing a small amount of plain water to prevent upsetting your stomach. Ensure the concoction isn’t too strong but well-diluted. For those with delicate stomachs, try having this beverage post a slight snack or simply opt for some warmed ginger-infused water instead.

It's crucial to keep in mind that lime juice is merely a component of the broader nutritional picture, with nutrition being just one aspect of an overall healthy way of life. Thus, the advantages of consuming lime juice shouldn't be exaggerated.

Apart from mornings, lime juice can be enjoyed at various other times as well. Consuming it approximately half an hour post-meal may assist with digestion and decrease bloating. It’s also beneficial when you’re feeling dehydrated or tired for hydration restoration. Drinking it around 15 minutes prior to a lighter meal could enhance your stomach acid production. Furthermore, mixing lime with ginger and honey might alleviate symptoms of coughs or sore throats.

Dr. Phan Thai Tan

Nutrition consultant, Homefit Weight Reduction Plan