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Disadvantages of Drinking Lemon Water Daily: What Ayurveda Says
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Published on 06/10/25
(Updated on 07/25/25)
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Disadvantages of Drinking Lemon Water Daily: What Ayurveda Says

Written by
Dr. Anirudh Deshmukh
Government Ayurvedic College, Nagpur University (2011)
I am Dr Anurag Sharma, done with BAMS and also PGDHCM from IMS BHU, which honestly shaped a lot of how I approach things now in clinic. Working as a physician and also as an anorectal surgeon, I’ve got around 2 to 3 years of solid experience—tho like, every day still teaches me something new. I mainly focus on anorectal care (like piles, fissure, fistula stuff), plus I work with chronic pain cases too. Pain management is something I feel really invested in—seeing someone walk in barely managing and then leave with actual relief, that hits different. I’m not really the fancy talk type, but I try to keep my patients super informed, not just hand out meds n move on. Each case needs a bit of thinking—some need Ksharasutra or minor para surgical stuff, while others are just lifestyle tweaks and herbal meds. I like mixing the Ayurved principles with modern insights when I can, coz both sides got value really. It’s like—knowing when to go gentle and when to be precise. Right now I’m working hard on getting even better with surgical skills, but also want to help people get to me before surgery's the only option. Had few complicated cases where patience n consistency paid off—no shortcuts but yeah, worth it. The whole point for me is to actually listen first, like proper listen. People talk about symptoms but also say what they feel—and that helps in understanding more than any lab report sometimes. I just want to stay grounded in my work, and keep growing while doing what I can to make someone's pain bit less every day.
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Lemon water — it’s everywhere. Your favorite influencer swears by it, your coworker can’t start their day without it, and every wellness blog seems to sing its praises. But here’s the twist: drinking lemon water daily isn't always the holy grail it’s hyped up to be. While it does offer some benefits, like aiding digestion or giving a quick vitamin C boost, the disadvantages of drinking lemon water daily are often swept under the rug.

Especially when it comes to long-term use, Ayurveda and modern health experts alike have started highlighting some surprising side effects. From mild digestive disruptions to more serious concerns like tooth enamel erosion or even kidney irritation, there's more to this citrusy habit than meets the eye. And if you’re drinking lemon water on an empty stomach every morning? Yeah, we need to talk.

Let’s dig deep — into the myths, side effects, and what Ayurveda has to say about your daily lemon water ritual.

Why Lemon Water Is Popular and When It Turns Harmful

Common Myths About Drinking Lemon Water Every Day

Most people start drinking lemon water because it feels clean. It’s often associated with detoxing, fat burning, and better skin. But a lot of these claims are rooted more in social media hype than science.

For instance, one common myth? That drinking lemon water will drastically "alkalize" your body. In reality, your body regulates its pH balance on its own — whether or not you’re tossing lemons into your water. So while it might feel refreshing, this doesn’t mean it's transforming your health at the cellular level. And more importantly, that daily habit could actually come with some unwanted baggage.

People rarely talk about lemon water side effects until they’re dealing with them: tooth sensitivity, weird stomach issues, or feeling oddly dehydrated. That’s because lemon is acidic, and when you dose your system with acid every single day — especially on an empty stomach — there can be consequences.

Salted Lemon Water and Its Potential Drawbacks

Adding salt to lemon water is a growing trend, promoted for "electrolyte balance." But when done too often, salted lemon water can backfire.

For one, if you're using regular table salt (not pink Himalayan or sea salt), you're increasing your sodium intake — and most people are already getting too much sodium daily. This can lead to bloating, water retention, or even raised blood pressure over time.

Plus, combining high acidity with salt can be rough on your stomach lining, especially for people with acid reflux or ulcers. Lemon salt water side effects aren’t usually discussed until problems arise, but they're worth noting for anyone making this a daily thing.

disadvantages of drinking lemon water daily

Side Effects of Daily Lemon Water Consumption

Impact on Kidneys, Digestion, and Acidity

You’d think something as natural as lemon would be gentle on your insides, right? Not always. Some studies and Ayurvedic teachings suggest that overdoing lemon water may mess with your kidneys.

See, lemon contains oxalates — compounds that, in high doses, may contribute to kidney stones in sensitive people. While the lemon water side effects on kidney function might not be immediate, they can sneak up if you’re predisposed to stone formation.

Also, drinking lemon water daily can throw off your digestive balance. The acid can irritate the stomach, especially if you already deal with gastritis or acid reflux. You might notice more heartburn, burping, or that sour-taste-in-the-back-of-your-throat feeling. It’s not fun.

It’s also a bit ironic: many folks start this habit to reduce bloating or improve digestion, but end up feeling worse due to the cumulative effect of acidity.

Gender-Specific Concerns: Female and Male Side Effects

When it comes to the side effects of lemon water for female drinkers, there are some lesser-known concerns worth addressing. For example, regular intake of acidic drinks like lemon water may interfere with hormonal balance — especially if consumed in excess. While scientific evidence here is still growing, some women report increased sensitivity around their menstrual cycle, or more frequent UTI-like symptoms. That may be due to the citrus irritating the bladder lining in those who are already prone to issues.

Also, women with conditions like PCOS or hormonal acne sometimes notice worsened symptoms when they lean heavily on acidic foods or drinks. It’s not that lemons are to blame directly, but in Ayurveda, overconsumption of sour-tasting foods is said to aggravate Pitta dosha, which can increase inflammation and hormonal imbalance.

On the flip side, the side effects of lemon for male consumers often go unnoticed — until dental problems arise. Men, especially those who work out regularly and pair lemon water with protein-rich diets, may unknowingly wear down their tooth enamel faster due to the combo of acidity and dehydration. This can lead to sensitivity or increased risk of cavities, especially if brushing right after drinking lemon water (a big no-no).

And here's something kinda weird — some men report feeling more anxious or “jittery” when drinking lemon water daily. That could be coincidence, or maybe tied to how acidic foods influence the nervous system in certain individuals. Still, worth keeping in mind.

side effects of lemon water for female

When and How Lemon Water Can Be Unsafe

Drinking Lemon Water on an Empty Stomach

This is a biggie. A lot of folks start their day with a warm glass of lemon water, believing it "kickstarts" metabolism or digestion. But here’s where Ayurveda and some nutritionists start to disagree with the trend.

First, drinking lemon water on an empty stomach can trigger acidity or reflux in people who are sensitive. You might not feel it right away — especially if you're in your twenties and your digestive system is still pretty resilient. But over time? That regular splash of citrus acid can gradually weaken the stomach lining or increase the chance of ulcers.

So yes, there are real disadvantages of drinking lemon water in empty stomach situations. Especially if you’ve had a history of gastritis, ulcers, or GERD. It might be better to pair lemon water with a small snack, or wait until mid-morning when your system is more buffered by food.

Also — and not enough people talk about this — drinking lemon water first thing may cause blood sugar spikes in certain individuals. While lemon has a low glycemic index, drinking it alone can still affect how your body handles glucose if you're not balancing it with protein or fiber.

Who Should Avoid Lemon Water and Why

Not everyone needs to steer clear of lemon water — but there are some who should definitely approach with caution.

People with kidney issues — especially those with a history of stones — might be advised to limit or avoid lemon water altogether. That’s because of the oxalates found in lemon, which can contribute to stone formation in sensitive kidneys. If you’ve ever had a stone, you know — it’s not something you want to repeat.

Also, if you’re on certain medications, especially those that affect potassium levels or blood pressure, lemon water might interfere subtly. Lemons can sometimes enhance the effects of diuretics or ACE inhibitors, which could cause imbalances if you're not watching closely.

Another overlooked group? People with dental concerns. Daily exposure to lemon’s acid wears away enamel slowly but surely, especially if you're sipping throughout the day. It’s better to drink it quickly, use a straw, and rinse with plain water after.

Conclusion

So, where does all of this leave us?

Lemon water isn’t the villain here — it has its place. But the glowingly positive health halo around it needs some balancing. The truth is, drinking lemon water daily, especially on an empty stomach or in large quantities, can come with a handful of issues you probably weren’t told about.

From the side effects of lemon water on kidney health, to its possible effect on digestion, enamel, hormones, and hydration — the downsides are real, even if they’re not immediate. Ayurveda has long cautioned against overuse of acidic foods, especially for people with a dominant Pitta constitution. It emphasizes balance, and that includes how much lemon you introduce to your body regularly.

And here’s the kicker — most people think because it’s “just lemon,” it’s harmless. But even natural things, when taken out of balance, can tip your internal ecosystem in the wrong direction. Ayurveda teaches us to listen to our body, not blindly follow trends.

So before you squeeze another lemon into your glass tomorrow morning, maybe pause and ask: Is this actually helping me? Or just a habit I never questioned?

FAQs

Is lemon good or bad for the kidneys?
It depends. In moderation, lemon may help reduce kidney stone risk in some people due to its citrate content. But for those prone to oxalate-based stones, or with existing kidney issues, daily lemon water could make things worse. If you’ve had kidney trouble, talk to a doctor before making lemon water a daily thing.

Are there hormonal risks of daily lemon water for women?
There’s no strong scientific consensus yet, but anecdotal reports and Ayurvedic guidance suggest excessive citrus (especially daily) could aggravate hormonal imbalances in sensitive individuals. It may also trigger UTIs or increased inflammation around menstruation for some women. Always observe how your body reacts and consult a healthcare provider if in doubt.

 

This article is checked by the current qualified Dr Sujal Patil and can be considered a reliable source of information for users of the site.

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Questions from users
What are some alternatives to lemon water that provide similar health benefits without the risks?
Anna
43 days ago
If you're looking for alternatives to lemon water, try warm water with ginger or a pinch of cumin. Ginger can support digestion and cumin helps with bloating, without the acidity. Herbal teas like chamomile are good too. Just be mindful of your dosha balance when picking. Keep it simple, work with nature, ya know?
Could drinking lemon water daily really lead to kidney stones for someone with a sensitive stomach?
Jackson
37 days ago
Drinking lemon water daily might increase the risk of kidney stones, more so if you have a sensitive stomach and tend to form stones easily. But, it's not a one-size-fits-all situation. Monitor how your body reacts. Maybe balancing lemon water with other alkaline foods or alternative ways to support digestion could reduce risks. Always listen to your body!
Could daily lemon water really hurt my digestive system if I'm sensitive to acidic foods?
Hudson
32 days ago
If you're sensitive to acidic foods, yes, daily lemon water could irritate your digestive system, possibly causing acidity or discomfort. Everyone's different, so it's important to listen to your body. If you notice issues, consider reducing frequency or drinking it less concentrated. Mixing it with warm water rather than cold might be gentler on your agni (digestive fire).
What are some alternatives to lemon water for hydration that won't irritate the stomach?
Leo
27 days ago
If lemon water bothers your stomach, try coconut water or aloe vera juice. They're gentle, hydrating, and won't irritate like lemon might. Herbal teas like chamomile or mint are great too, soothingly hydrating. Listen to how your body reacts; it's about finding what works for your dosha and agni.
How can I protect my enamel if I enjoy drinking lemon water every day?
David
22 days ago
To enjoy your lemon water and protect your enamel, try sipping through a straw to minimize direct contact with your teeth. Also, rinse your mouth with water after drinking or wait about 30 minutes and then brush your teeth to avoid brushing softened enamel. Balance is key, so consider limiting to just one cup a day.
What are some signs that lemon water might be affecting my kidney health negatively?
Mia
17 days ago
If you feel a bit of pain or discomfort in your back or lower sides, changes in urine color, or frequent urination, it might be worth checking in with a doc. High acidity could also possibly irritate kidneys if overdone. Everyone’s body is different, so balance is key and listening to how you feel is super important. 🍋
Can drinking lemon water really cause blood sugar spikes, or is that more of an isolated case?
Isaac
7 days ago
Dr. Anirudh Deshmukh
5 days ago
Usually, drinking lemon water itself doesn't cause a spike in blood sugar. It's actually low in sugar! But everyone reacts differently, ya know? For some, it might be an isolated case, like if you have a specific condition or are super sensitive to changes in glucose levels. If worried, maybe check with a healthcare pro. 🌿💧
Is it safe to drink lemon water every morning, or could that harm my teeth over time?
Brooklyn
12 days ago
You’re right to wonder about lemon water and teeth! The acidity can wear enamel over time. To be safe, try drinking through a straw, rinsing your mouth after, or drinking it less often. Listen to your body and if worried, chat with a dentist too. Keep balance in mind; not all of our bodies handle it the same way.
What are some signs that lemon water might be harming my digestion or dental health?
Joshua
2 days ago
Dr. Anirudh Deshmukh
18 hours ago
If lemon water is harming your digestion or dental health, you might notice signs like heartburn, stomach discomfort or acid reflux. For your teeth, sensitivity could be a clue, or any kind of persistent irritation. Ayurveda would say too much acidity can unbalance your agni (digestive fire) or vitiate your prakriti — keep an eye on how you're feeling! 😊
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