Lemon UP!
Every morning, first thing on an empty stomach, I drink hot, fresh lemon water. It tastes great and makes me feel good. It's like a morning cleanse for my digestive system. Additionally, I take five of my daily supplements on an empty stomach, so I can check that off my routine at the same time.
In case you're interested, these particular supplements are:
- Protease (before my daily protein smoothie, helping me to better absorb proteins in my diet)
- Probiotic (balancing my microbiome)
- Curcumin (for inflammation)
- AHCC (to boost immunity)
- A hair growth supplement
Years ago, my homeopathic doctor suggested that I decrease acidic foods in my diet and increase my intake of alkaline foods. She explained that when the body becomes too acidic, it can lead to inflammation and a higher risk of various diseases and disorders. An alkalizing diet helps balance your pH levels, reducing acidity. With a more alkaline environment, your body can function optimally.
You probably think, as I did, that lemons are acidic, so wouldn't they have the opposite effect? I was surprised to learn that while lemon is acidic before it's ingested (like when it gets into an open cut!), it has an alkalizing effect once processed by the body. Go figure!
Too much acid-forming food, such as sugar and processed foods, can cause the body to be out of balance. The alkalizing effects of warm lemon water can help to neutralize that.
My dentist isn't a big fan of lemon water as it's not great for your teeth, but if diluted in water and consumed just once a day, it should be okay. "If it isn’t one thing, it’s another!"
If you want to test your pH levels to see whether they’re acidic or alkaline, pick up some test strips at any drugstore or on-line. They’re the same that we used in chemistry class. Stick a strip in your mouth when you wake up in the morning and a colored chart will explain the details. Also, after years of experimenting with several lemon-squeeze solutions, I need to give a shout out to the Kitchen Aid Citrus Squeezer. It’s a game changer!