What are the negatives of lemon water?

November 6, 2025 •

3 min read

While often praised for its health benefits, the acidic nature of lemon juice can cause significant drawbacks for some individuals. A surprising number of people experience adverse effects from consuming lemon water daily. What are the negatives of lemon water that you should be aware of before making it a regular habit?

Quick Summary

Lemon water can cause dental enamel erosion, worsen acid reflux symptoms, and trigger heartburn. Overconsumption may also lead to digestive upset, frequent urination, and increased skin sensitivity in some individuals.

Key Points

Enamel Erosion: The high acidity of lemon juice can wear down tooth enamel over time, leading to sensitivity and an increased risk of cavities.
Acid Reflux and Heartburn: For some individuals, the acid can worsen symptoms of acid reflux and GERD by relaxing the lower esophageal sphincter.
Digestive Issues: Drinking lemon water, especially on an empty stomach, can irritate the stomach lining and cause bloating, cramps, or nausea.
Diuretic Effect: The vitamin C in lemons can increase urine production, which may lead to dehydration if adequate plain water is not also consumed.
Photosensitivity: Psoralen compounds in lemons can make skin more sensitive to sunlight, increasing the risk of sunburn and discoloration.
Medication Interference: In rare cases, lemon water could interact with certain medications, particularly those processed by the liver.

Dental Damage: The Sour Truth about Enamel Erosion

One of the most significant downsides of regular lemon water consumption is its potential impact on dental health. The high concentration of citric acid in lemon juice, with a pH as low as 2, can erode tooth enamel. Enamel is the protective outer layer of your teeth, and its erosion can lead to several problems.

How does acid affect your teeth?

Increased Sensitivity: Thinning enamel exposes the underlying dentin, resulting in sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet stimuli.
Discoloration: As enamel wears away, the yellowish dentin becomes more prominent, potentially causing teeth to appear dull or discolored.
Higher Risk of Cavities: Damaged enamel leaves teeth more vulnerable to decay and cavities.

To mitigate these risks, dental professionals often suggest using a straw to minimize tooth contact and rinsing your mouth with plain water immediately after drinking lemon water. It is also advisable to avoid brushing your teeth right after consuming acidic drinks, as enamel is temporarily softened and more prone to abrasion.

Digestive Discomfort and Acid Reflux

For individuals with sensitive digestive systems or conditions like GERD, the acidity of lemon water can be problematic. Some may find it aids digestion, while others experience negative effects like heartburn, GERD symptoms, stomach upset, or worsened canker sores {Link: Times of India https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/life-style/health-fitness/health-news/lemon-water-is-not-for-everyone-signs-when-this-healthy-drink-backfires/articleshow/122545729.cms}.

Dehydration and Frequent Urination

Lemon juice contains vitamin C, which is a natural diuretic. Excessive consumption without adequate hydration might potentially lead to dehydration.

Comparison of Lemon Water Negatives vs. Benefits


Aspect	Negatives	Benefits
Dental Health	Causes enamel erosion, leading to sensitivity and increased risk of cavities.	Can freshen breath due to its antibacterial properties.
Digestive System	May cause heartburn, GERD, and stomach upset, especially on an empty stomach.	Can aid digestion by stimulating gastric juices for some individuals.
Hydration	Potential for dehydration due to diuretic effects if consumed excessively.	Helps increase overall water intake and hydration.
Skin	Increases photosensitivity, leading to increased risk of sunburns and dark spots.	Provides Vitamin C, which is essential for collagen production and skin health.

Other Considerations and Medication Interactions

Lemon juice may contain compounds that could potentially interact with certain medications, particularly those metabolized by the liver {Link: Times of India https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/life-style/health-fitness/health-news/lemon-water-is-not-for-everyone-signs-when-this-healthy-drink-backfires/articleshow/122545729.cms}. Individuals taking certain medications should consult their doctor before regularly consuming lemon water. Some people also have citrus allergies.

How to reduce potential risks

Dilute More: Increase the water-to-lemon juice ratio to lower acidity.
Use a Straw: Helps minimize contact between the acidic liquid and tooth enamel.
Rinse After: Swish with plain water after drinking to help neutralize residual acid.
Moderation is Key: Limit intake to one or two glasses daily.
Timing: Avoid consuming on an empty stomach, especially if you have digestive sensitivities or acid reflux.

Conclusion

While lemon water is often promoted for its health benefits, it's important to be aware of the potential negatives. The high acidity poses a risk to dental enamel and can worsen digestive issues like heartburn and GERD in susceptible individuals. The diuretic effect and potential for medication interactions are also factors to consider. Understanding what are the negatives of lemon water allows for an informed decision about its place in your routine. If you experience adverse symptoms, it's best to reduce or stop consumption and listen to your body. {Link: International Foundation for Gastrointestinal Disorders https://www.iffgd.org/gi-disorders/acid-reflux/}

Sources

Times of India: Stop drinking lemon water daily: 7 side effects you can’t ignore
NDTV: What Are The Side Effects Of Drinking Lemon Water? Safety Tips You Must Follow
Redcliffe Labs: Disadvantages of Drinking Lemon Water Daily - Redcliffe Labs
Fitwell Hub: Top 12 Lemon Water Benefits, Myths & Risks | Complete Guide
Care Health Insurance: Surprising Side Effects Of Drinking Lemon Water Daily
Times of India: Lemon water is not for everyone: Signs when this 'healthy' drink backfires
GlacierFresh: What Are the Disadvantages of Drinking Lemon Water Daily

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not medical advice. {Link: Times of India https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/life-style/health-fitness/health-news/lemon-water-is-not-for-everyone-signs-when-this-healthy-drink-backfires/articleshow/122545729.cms}

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, lemon water can be bad for your teeth due to its high acidity. The citric acid can erode tooth enamel, leading to increased sensitivity and a higher risk of cavities over time.

For individuals prone to acid reflux or GERD, lemon water can worsen symptoms. The acidity can relax the lower esophageal sphincter, allowing stomach acid to enter the esophagus and cause heartburn.

No, it is not recommended to drink lemon water on an empty stomach, especially for those with sensitive digestive systems. The acidity can irritate the stomach lining and cause discomfort or nausea.

Yes, lemon water can have a mild diuretic effect because of its vitamin C content, which may lead to more frequent urination. If not balanced with plain water, this could potentially lead to mild dehydration.

Though not as prominent as grapefruit, lemons can interfere with how certain medications are metabolized by the liver. It is best to consult a doctor if you take daily medication and wish to consume lemon water regularly.

Yes, lemon juice contains compounds called psoralens that can increase your skin's sensitivity to sunlight. This can lead to a condition called phytophotodermatitis, resulting in rashes, blistering, or discoloration when exposed to the sun.

To minimize negative effects, you can drink lemon water through a straw to protect your teeth, rinse your mouth with plain water afterward, dilute it more, and avoid drinking it on an empty stomach.