The intake of lemon and water as a detoxing and weight loss method amongst women is rapidly growing, with many blogs and websites encouraging the usage of the drink.

But, does it really work?

“The combination of lemon juice and water as a form of detox is credible as lemons contain flavonoids which are full of antioxidant properties, meaning they have the ability to cleanse, detoxify and clear the palate and gut when eaten or taken with water,” said Dietitian Julie Peacock, adding that lemon juice has the ability to act as a diuretic, causing increased passing of urine, meaning it cleanses the body system and aids in the detoxification process.

Most women said the drink only works partly the way they are told it would. It only helps them with detoxifying their systems and has to be backed up by a healthy diet if they are determined to lose weight.

Lemons are high in pectin fibre, which plays a valuable part in contributing to effective weight loss. When a person eats enough fibre (roughage), they feel fuller for longer, thereby delaying hunger and preventing unnecessary snacking. “This is by no means the only determinant for effective weight loss though,” said Peacock.

Lemon juice and water does not necessarily shed weight, but does support weight loss as it helps keep a steady and healthy gastrointestinal system. There are disadvantages though when it comes to high intake of the drink, since citric acid in lemon juice could erode tooth enamel and make teeth sensitive to hot and cold. A very acidic PH in the mouth could potentially be the start of erosion and decay. To avoid the possibility of this happening, one should take into consideration the consumption of the equivalent: plain water!

“Plain water is the first choice for hydration and detoxing. Research has shown that people who drink lots of water are better quenched of their thirst and tend to drink less sugary beverages, which are all high in energy and sugar,” said Peacock.

Season change also plays a vital role in weight loss, as dietary practices tend to differ depending on which season it is.

Peacock said spring and summer tend to point towards lighter meals, better intake of water and an overall improved consciousness of people’s figures and health. This points towards better chances of one losing weight since, psychologically, they are as positive about the environment around them as they are to their physical well-being and health.

During these two seasons, exercise features more strongly and people enjoy being outside in the warm weather, absorbing lots of vitamin D from the sun which is important for the regulation of calcium and phosphorus absorption.

There is seemingly a lot of complacence and lethargy brought about by cold seasons. People tend not to focus on their physique as much, since more layers of clothing are often worn, covering the body.

Peacock explains, “Autumn and winter always seems to show a decline in attention to people’s health, often with less exercise, less attention to adequate water drinking and often a higher intake of energy dense, fatty foods. Salads and vegetables are often eaten in smaller quantities compared to the warmer months, and sickness (flu and bronchial problems) often puts a dampener on people’s efforts to exercise as regularly. These are all pertinent changes that I personally have noticed in my practice when dealing with patients.”

Here are some ways in which you can keep in shape:

• Balance your intake of good, healthy food with an adequate amount of exercise each day.
• If you are eating more energy (food and alcohol) than you are burning (with exercise), you will have a greater tendency to gain weight.
• Be cautious of food portion sizes. “Eat to live”, rather than “live to eat”.
• Keep well hydrated with adequate water and herbal teas and ensure that you also get sufficient sleep and plenty of sunshine.

The ideal health state for women and teenage girls from a dietary perspective is to have adequate fiber in the diet (plenty of fruits, vegetables, wholegrains and legumes), iron-rich foods (lean red meat, pork, poultry, dark green, leafy vegetables and iron-fortified cereals), adequate sleep, plenty of water and daily exercise.

However, when all is said and done, it’s what’s on the inside that counts. “Ultimately, your character shines through and is what is attractive,” said Psychologist, Kirsten van Heerden. “I am sure we have all met someone that has either become more attractive as we have got to know them or on the other hand, has become less attractive once their character is revealed.” This however does not mean that one must not stay healthy.

– Siyabonga Nkosi

Pictured: Lemon water, which is used my many people as a weight loss aid or simply a delicious thirst quencher. 

Photo credit: www.healthyfoodhouse.com.