Disadvantages of Drinking Lemon Water Daily: What You Should Know
Medically Reviewed By
Dr. Mayanka Lodha Seth
Written By Sheena Mehta
on Aug 12, 2025
Last Edit Made By Sheena Mehta
on Aug 12, 2025
Lemon water is often discussed as a natural detox and a good morning habit for your health.
Lemon water has many benefits. It can provide more vitamin C, help you digest food better, and keep you hydrated.
Did you know?
If you drink lemon water daily, especially a lot of it, you could be hurting yourself without even knowing it. There are also lemon water disadvantages. You may not realize that drinking lemon water first thing in the morning might be unhealthy, especially if you do it on an empty stomach.
In this blog, we will explore the side effects of drinking lemon water daily. We'll share what doctors say and real health concerns.
Side Effects of Lemon Water Daily You Should Know
Lemon water has many benefits, but drinking it daily may cause unexpected side effects that can impact dental, digestive, and overall health.
1. Dental Health Problems
Lemons are super acidic, with a pH of around 2 to 3. Eating them every day, especially if your stomach is
empty, it can gradually erode the enamel that protects your teeth.
Symptoms of Enamel Erosion
The common symptoms of enamel erosion include:
- Tooth sensitivity
- Discoloration or yellowing
- Transparent edges on teeth
- Increased risk of cavities
Tip: Always rinse your mouth with water after drinking lemon water. Using a straw can also help reduce direct acid contact.
2. Risk of acid reflux or heartburn
Lemon water can increase stomach acidity and loosen the valve between your stomach and throat. It could cause acid reflux or heartburn, especially if you're prone to it or have GERD.
Symptoms of Acid Reflux or Heartburn
Drinking lemon water daily may cause:
- Burning sensation in the chest
- Sour taste in the mouth
- Burping or bloating
- Sour or bitter taste in the mouth
- Dry cough
Tip: Limit the consumption of acidic drinks like lemon water if you already have gastroesophageal reflux. Seek medical assistance immediately if needed.
3. Potential Dehydration
Drinking lemon water daily might lead to frequent urination because it is a mild diuretic. If you're constantly running to the bathroom, you could get dehydrated if you don't drink enough plain water to compensate.
Symptoms of Possible Dehydration and Frequent Urination
These may include:
- Thirst/ Dry mouth
- Dark or concentrated urine
- Fatigue
- Reduced skin elasticity
- Dizziness
Tip: Drink enough plain water or get tested for an underlying medical condition.
4. Increased Skin Sensitivity to Sunlight
Lemon juice contains psoralens that can make your skin burn more easily in the sun. So, if you use lemon juice on your skin, you might get a sunburn or spots from the sun.
Symptoms of Sun Sensitivity
Sun sensitivity is also known as photo sensitivity, and may lead to:
- Burning or stinging sensation
- Blistering or peeling after minimal sun exposure
- Itchy, inflamed patches of skin
- Dark spots or discoloration
Tip: Protect your skin with broad-spectrum sun protection (SPF or higher). Also, a vitamin B12 or ANA profile test should be considered to rule out underlying conditions.
5. Possible Irritation with Medications
Lemons and grapefruits can interfere with how some medicines work. Drinking lemon water daily while on certain drugs may affect liver enzymes that break down drugs. Lemons aren't as strong as grapefruits in this way, but eating many of them daily could still cause problems.
Symptoms of medication interference
If you are on medications, you may experience:
- Drowsiness
- Dizziness
- Nausea
- Stomach pain
- Hives
Tip: Limit your lemon intake and consult your doctor about the ideal use of lemon water to avoid complications.
6. May Lower Potassium Levels
Lemon water can act like a natural diuretic, helping you eliminate extra sodium. It can also flush out potassium, a really important mineral. You need potassium for your muscles to work right, your heart to beat normally, and your nerves to send signals.
Symptoms of low potassium
Low potassium levels (hypokalemia) can lead to:
- Fatigue
- Muscle weakness
- Irregular heartbeat
- Muscle cramps
- Constipation
Tip: If you notice these symptoms, check your electrolyte levels with a Potassium Test or Electrolyte Panel.
7. Risk of Citrus Allergies or Sensitivities
Although rare, you may have allergic reactions to citrus fruits, including lemons. Drinking lemon water daily might cause this, especially if you have food allergies or a sensitive immune system.
Symptoms of Citrus Allergy
Symptoms of citrus allergy may include:
- Itching or tingling sensation around the mouth, lips, or throat
- Skin rashes or hives
- Swelling of the face, lips, or tongue
- Stomach pain, nausea, or diarrhea
- Difficulty breathing or wheezing
Tip: Avoid citrus products if you suspect you are allergic to lemons. Also, consult an allergist for a food sensitivity panel or allergy test to help identify the trigger.
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Conclusion
Lemon water can be refreshing and provide vitamin C, but the disadvantages of drinking lemon water daily might include teeth wearing down, heartburn, feeling dehydrated, and other health issues.
It's best to consume in moderation, avoid prolonged contact with your teeth, and ask a doctor if you start feeling symptoms increase or if you are on medications.
FAQs
1. Can I drink lemon water daily?
Yes, but in moderation. The side effects of drinking daily may include tooth erosion, acidity, electrolyte imbalances, or even digestive problems in some people.
2. Is lemon water bad for the kidneys?
Lemon water is good for the kidneys in moderation, but too much daily, especially with sugar, may pressurize kidney function over time.
3. When should you avoid lemon water?
Lemon water should be avoided if you have acid reflux (GERD), mouth ulcers, sensitive teeth, or citrus allergies.
4. How much lemon water should I drink every day?
Drinking 1-2 glasses of diluted lemon water daily is safe for most people, so you can try it.
5. Does lemon water eliminate toxins from the body?
No, not exactly. The liver and kidneys naturally detoxify the body. Drinking lemon water daily may support hydration and digestion.
6. Is lemon water bad for you every day?
Yes, if consumed in excess. While it's good for you in some ways, having it daily might cause complications. Remember, moderation is key.
