The Disadvantages of Drinking Lemon Water First Thing in the Morning

January 8, 2026 •

4 min read

According to a survey from August 2025 by The Times of India, many people believe that drinking lemon water first thing in the morning is a universally beneficial habit, but for some, it can lead to health issues. While a glass of lemon water is often touted as a natural detoxifier, its high acidity can pose several disadvantages, especially when consumed on an empty stomach.

Quick Summary

The acidity of lemon water can erode tooth enamel and trigger or worsen acid reflux and heartburn for some individuals. Excessive consumption may also lead to frequent urination, potentially causing dehydration if not properly managed with water intake. Additionally, it can irritate sensitive stomachs and, in rare cases, interfere with certain medications.

Key Points

Enamel Erosion: The high acidity of lemon juice can weaken and erode tooth enamel over time, leading to sensitivity and decay.
Aggravated Acid Reflux: For individuals with GERD or sensitive stomachs, drinking lemon water first thing in the morning can trigger or worsen heartburn and digestive issues.
Potential Dehydration: The diuretic effect from the high vitamin C content can increase urination, and excessive intake without balancing with plain water can lead to fluid loss.
Medication Interference: Lemon compounds can potentially affect the absorption of certain medications, making medical consultation necessary if you take regular prescriptions.
Increased Sun Sensitivity: Psoralens in lemons can cause photosensitivity, increasing the risk of sunburn and rashes with sun exposure.
Allergic Reactions: Though uncommon, individuals with citrus sensitivities may experience allergic reactions, including skin rashes or swelling.

The morning ritual of a glass of lemon water has been widely popularized for its purported health benefits, from boosting immunity to aiding weight loss. However, the daily consumption of this acidic beverage, particularly on an empty stomach, is not without its drawbacks. While anecdotal evidence supports many of the benefits, scientific consensus points to several potential downsides that a mindful consumer should be aware of.

The Impact of Acidity on Dental Health

One of the most well-documented disadvantages of drinking lemon water is its effect on tooth enamel. Lemon juice has a low pH, making it highly acidic. Daily, direct contact with this acid can gradually weaken and erode the protective enamel layer on teeth. This can lead to increased tooth sensitivity to hot and cold foods, and over time, may contribute to discoloration and a higher risk of cavities.

To minimize this risk, dental professionals recommend several precautions:

Use a straw when drinking lemon water to limit contact with your teeth.
Rinse your mouth with plain water immediately after consuming to help neutralize the acid.
Wait at least an hour before brushing your teeth, as brushing weakened enamel can cause further damage.

Digestive Discomfort

For individuals with sensitive stomachs or pre-existing conditions like acid reflux or gastritis, drinking lemon water first thing in the morning can be a significant irritant. The high level of citric acid can increase stomach acid production, leading to or worsening symptoms of heartburn, bloating, and indigestion. Some people may even experience nausea or cramps. The effect of lemon water on acid reflux is not universal, with some individuals reporting relief and others experiencing exacerbated symptoms. It is crucial to listen to your body and moderate or cease consumption if digestive issues arise.

Potential for Dehydration

It may seem counterintuitive, but excessive lemon water intake can sometimes lead to dehydration. Lemons contain a notable amount of vitamin C, which acts as a natural diuretic. While this can promote urine production and waste removal, overconsumption, especially without balancing with plain water, can lead to frequent urination and potential fluid loss. In extreme cases, this could lead to electrolyte imbalances.

Comparison of Drinking Lemon Water vs. Plain Water


Feature	Lemon Water (Excessive Morning Intake)	Plain Water (Consistent Intake)
Effect on Tooth Enamel	High risk of erosion due to acidity.	No risk of erosion; helps maintain oral health.
Digestive Impact	Can trigger or worsen acid reflux, heartburn, and bloating in some individuals.	Generally soothing for the digestive system and promotes regularity.
Diuretic Effect	Mild diuretic effect can increase urination, potentially leading to dehydration.	Aids hydration without causing excessive fluid loss.
Vitamin C Intake	Good source of Vitamin C, but large doses are not necessary and can be obtained from other foods.	Does not provide Vitamin C, but is the most effective way to hydrate the body.
Hydration Quality	Can be hydrating, but potential diuretic effect can complicate true hydration status if not balanced.	The gold standard for effective and consistent hydration.

Medication Interactions and Other Considerations

For those on certain medications, particularly for blood pressure, thyroid issues, or diabetes, the high concentration of citric acid and other compounds in lemon juice can interfere with how the body absorbs these drugs. It is always advisable to consult a doctor if you take regular medication and are considering making lemon water a daily habit. While rare, citrus allergies or sensitivities can also be triggered or worsened by daily consumption, with symptoms including skin rashes, itching, or swelling. The compounds psoralens in lemons can also increase skin sensitivity to sunlight in some individuals, leading to a higher risk of sunburn or rashes.

Conclusion: Finding the Right Balance

While lemon water offers certain benefits, the key to enjoying them without encountering the disadvantages lies in moderation and mindful consumption. It is not a one-size-fits-all solution for everyone's health needs, and daily intake on an empty stomach can be particularly problematic for dental and digestive health. Listen to your body and its response. If you experience negative side effects, consider reducing your intake, drinking it with or after a meal, or switching to plain water. Ultimately, proper hydration is vital, and plain, filtered water remains the safest and most effective choice for daily fluid intake. If you have ongoing health conditions, discussing your routine with a healthcare professional is the best course of action.

For more detailed information on balancing dietary habits with medication, consult reliable medical resources such as the National Institutes of Health (NIH), which offers extensive studies on food and drug interactions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, drinking lemon water on an empty stomach is particularly risky for your teeth. The acid can wear away tooth enamel. To mitigate this, use a straw and rinse your mouth with plain water afterwards.

For many people, the high acidity of lemon juice can trigger or worsen symptoms of acid reflux and heartburn, especially when consumed on an empty stomach. However, individual reactions can vary.

Yes, lemon water has a mild diuretic effect due to its vitamin C content, which can increase urination. If you drink it excessively without consuming enough regular water, it can lead to dehydration.

If you are on regular medication, you should consult your doctor before making lemon water a daily habit. The compounds in lemons can interfere with the absorption and effectiveness of some drugs.

If you experience bloating, cramps, or other stomach irritation after drinking lemon water, especially in the morning, it is a sign that your stomach may be too sensitive to the acid. You should reduce your intake or stop drinking it.

To minimize side effects, dilute your lemon juice heavily, use a straw to protect your teeth, and rinse your mouth with plain water after drinking. Avoid consuming it on an empty stomach if you have digestive sensitivities.

Yes, plain, filtered water is the most effective and safe way to hydrate in the morning. For flavor, consider adding slices of cucumber, mint, or non-citrus fruits like berries.