Are there any negatives to drinking lemon water?

November 18, 2025 •

3 min read

According to a 2015 study, citric acid, the main component of lemons, may lead to the erosion of tooth enamel over the long term. This is one of several potential downsides to drinking lemon water, a trendy beverage often hailed for its health benefits.

Quick Summary

Excessive lemon water intake can harm dental health by eroding enamel and trigger or worsen acid reflux due to high acidity. Some may also experience digestive discomfort, increased urination leading to dehydration, or potential drug interactions.

Key Points

Dental Erosion: The high acidity in lemons can soften and erode tooth enamel, leading to sensitivity and an increased risk of cavities.
Aggravated Acid Reflux: For those with GERD or sensitive stomachs, lemon water can worsen heartburn and other acid reflux symptoms.
Digestive Discomfort: Excessive intake, especially on an empty stomach, can cause stomach irritation, cramps, bloating, or nausea in some individuals.
Mild Diuretic Effect: The vitamin C in lemons can act as a natural diuretic, which might lead to increased urination and potential dehydration if intake is not properly managed.
Potential for Dehydration: The mild diuretic effect can, in cases of excessive intake, potentially lead to dehydration or electrolyte imbalance if not enough plain water is also consumed.
Phytophotodermatitis Risk: Direct contact of lemon juice with skin, followed by sun exposure, can cause painful skin irritation and sunburn-like rashes.

Dental Health: The Primary Risk

One of the most well-documented and significant drawbacks to drinking lemon water is its effect on dental health. Lemons are highly acidic, and the citric acid they contain can, over time, soften and wear away tooth enamel. Since enamel is the protective outer layer of the teeth, its erosion can lead to several problems.

Increased Sensitivity: As the enamel wears thin, the underlying dentin, which is connected to the tooth's nerves, becomes exposed. This can cause increased sensitivity to hot, cold, and sweet foods.
Higher Risk of Cavities: Softened enamel makes teeth more vulnerable to decay and cavities.
Discoloration: The yellow-tinted dentin can become more visible as enamel thins, giving teeth a darker or more yellow appearance.

How to mitigate dental risks

To enjoy lemon water while protecting your teeth, dental experts recommend a few simple precautions:

Drink with a straw: This minimizes the liquid's contact with your teeth.
Rinse with plain water: Swish your mouth with fresh water immediately after drinking to help neutralize the acid.
Avoid brushing immediately: Wait at least 30 to 60 minutes before brushing your teeth, as the enamel is in a temporarily softened state and can be abraded more easily.

Digestive System Irritation

While some people find that lemon water aids digestion, its high acidity can be a double-edged sword, especially for those with pre-existing digestive conditions.

Acid reflux and heartburn

For people who are prone to acid reflux or GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease), regularly consuming lemon water can exacerbate symptoms. The acidity can irritate the stomach lining and esophagus, leading to a burning sensation. Some experts note that lemon juice can relax the lower esophageal sphincter, allowing stomach acid to flow back up.

Stomach upset

Daily or excessive consumption of lemon water, particularly on an empty stomach, may irritate the stomach lining in sensitive individuals. This could lead to symptoms such as bloating, cramping, nausea, or general stomach discomfort.

Other Potential Side Effects

Beyond dental and digestive issues, excessive intake of lemon water can carry other lesser-known risks.

Frequent urination and dehydration

Lemons are a source of vitamin C (ascorbic acid), which is a natural diuretic. For most people, this effect is mild and helps flush out toxins. However, in cases of very heavy consumption, particularly if not balanced with enough plain water, it can lead to more frequent urination and potentially result in dehydration or electrolyte imbalance.

Medication interactions

Rarely, lemon juice may affect how the body absorbs certain medications. Compounds in lemons can potentially influence liver enzymes that are responsible for metabolizing drugs. Individuals on prescription medications for conditions like blood pressure, diabetes, or thyroid issues should consult a doctor before making daily lemon water a habit.

Skin sensitivity to sunlight

Lemon juice contains compounds called psoralens. When this liquid comes into direct contact with the skin and is then exposed to sunlight, it can cause a condition known as phytophotodermatitis, resulting in redness, irritation, or severe burns. While drinking lemon water poses less risk, proper hygiene after handling lemons is still advisable.

Risks vs. Benefits: A Comparison Table


Potential Negative	Potential Positive
Tooth enamel erosion due to high acidity.	Provides Vitamin C to boost immune health and promote healthy skin.
Heartburn/Acid reflux aggravated by acidic content.	Promotes hydration due to its refreshing flavor.
Stomach irritation or digestive upset from overconsumption.	Aids digestion by stimulating gastric acid production.
Mild diuretic effect potentially leading to dehydration.	May help prevent kidney stones by increasing urine citrate levels.
Potential medication interactions for certain drugs.	Offers an alternative to sugary drinks, aiding weight management.

Conclusion: Moderation is Key

Drinking lemon water in moderation can offer health benefits, such as increased hydration and a vitamin C boost. However, excessive consumption, especially if you have sensitive teeth or a history of acid reflux, can lead to significant negative consequences. By being mindful of your intake and taking preventive measures, like drinking through a straw and rinsing your mouth, you can enjoy this refreshing beverage without jeopardizing your health. If you experience persistent symptoms, it is always best to consult a healthcare professional. For more in-depth nutritional information, authoritative health resources can provide guidance on balancing your diet effectively.

Your Health, Your Choice

The decision to incorporate lemon water into your routine should be based on your personal health profile and tolerance. There is no one-size-fits-all approach, and listening to your body's signals is paramount. While the popular trend extols the benefits, being aware of the negatives ensures a balanced perspective and safer practice.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, due to its high acidity, regular and prolonged consumption of lemon water can lead to the erosion of tooth enamel, making teeth more susceptible to sensitivity and cavities.

For individuals with acid reflux or sensitive digestive systems, the high acidity of lemon water can irritate the esophagus and stomach lining, potentially triggering or worsening heartburn symptoms.

To minimize harm, drink lemon water through a straw to limit contact with your teeth. Also, rinse your mouth with plain water afterward and wait at least 30 minutes before brushing your teeth.

For some, particularly those with sensitive stomachs, drinking lemon water on an empty stomach can lead to digestive irritation, cramping, or nausea.

While unlikely with moderate intake, excessive consumption can cause a mild diuretic effect due to vitamin C, potentially leading to dehydration if not properly balanced with plain water.

Lemon juice can potentially interfere with certain medications metabolized by the liver. It's best to consult a doctor, especially if you are on medication for blood pressure or thyroid issues.

You can stay hydrated with plain water or other low-calorie options like adding cucumber, mint, or other fruits to your water. Herbal teas are another excellent choice.

Most experts recommend sticking to one or two glasses per day, using about a half-lemon's juice per glass, to enjoy the benefits without excessive risk.