What Are the Side Effects of Lime and Lemon?

November 2, 2025 •

4 min read

According to the National Institutes of Health, consuming excessive amounts of vitamin C from sources like citrus can cause gastrointestinal distress. While limes and lemons offer nutritional benefits, their high acidity means potential side effects of lime and lemon must be considered, especially with frequent consumption.

Quick Summary

Excessive consumption of lime and lemon can cause dental enamel erosion, worsen acid reflux symptoms, and potentially trigger rare allergic reactions or skin sensitivity to sunlight. Moderation is key.

Key Points

Dental Erosion is a Major Risk: High acidity in lemons and limes can wear down tooth enamel, leading to sensitivity and cavities over time.
Trigger for Acid Reflux: For individuals with GERD, the citric acid can relax the lower esophageal sphincter and worsen symptoms of heartburn.
Beware of Skin Reactions: The juice can cause phytophotodermatitis, a condition where skin becomes sensitive to sunlight and can develop blisters or rashes.
Allergies are Possible: Though uncommon, citrus can trigger allergic reactions, with symptoms ranging from mild mouth itching to severe anaphylaxis.
Mitigate with Moderation: Diluting juice, using a straw, and rinsing your mouth with plain water after consumption can significantly reduce the risk of side effects.
Listen to Your Body: If you experience stomach upset or discomfort, reduce or stop consuming high amounts of citrus.

Understanding the Risks of Citrus

While celebrated for their vitamin C content and flavor, limes and lemons can pose risks when consumed in high quantities. The primary culprit is their high concentration of citric acid, which can interact negatively with the body, particularly for individuals with pre-existing health conditions or sensitivities. Knowing the potential side effects of lime and lemon is crucial for incorporating these fruits safely into your diet.

Dental Damage: Enamel Erosion

The high acidity of lemons and limes is a significant threat to dental health. Tooth enamel, the hard, protective outer layer of your teeth, can be eroded by frequent exposure to acid.

Increased Sensitivity: As enamel wears down, the underlying dentin becomes exposed, leading to increased sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures.
Cavity Risk: A weakened enamel layer is more susceptible to bacterial invasion, increasing the risk of cavities and decay.
Discoloration: Enamel erosion can also contribute to the yellowing of teeth over time as the yellowish dentin shows through. Sipping lemon or lime water throughout the day, in particular, can be more damaging than consuming it all at once, as it keeps your teeth bathed in acid for prolonged periods.

Gastrointestinal Upset

For many, consuming citrus in moderation is perfectly safe. However, for those with sensitive digestive systems, the acid can cause or worsen gastrointestinal issues.

Acid Reflux and Heartburn: The acidity can relax the lower esophageal sphincter, allowing stomach acid to flow back into the esophagus and causing or aggravating symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
Stomach Upset and Cramps: Excessive intake of citric acid can lead to stomach cramps, nausea, or general discomfort, especially on an empty stomach.
Diarrhea: In some cases, a high dose of vitamin C and fiber from excessive citrus can lead to diarrhea.

Allergic Reactions and Skin Sensitivity

Though less common, some people may experience allergic reactions to citrus fruits, or their skin may react to external contact with the juice.

Citrus Allergy: Symptoms can range from tingling and itching in the mouth and throat to hives, swelling, and, in rare cases, anaphylaxis. Cross-reactivity between different citrus fruits is also possible.
Phytophotodermatitis: This is a skin reaction caused by a compound in citrus peels and juice (furocoumarins) that makes the skin highly sensitive to ultraviolet light. Contact with the juice followed by sun exposure can cause painful, blistering rashes or dark patches on the skin.

Other Potential Side Effects

Can Worsen Canker Sores: The high acid content can irritate and prolong the healing of mouth ulcers and canker sores.
Potential for Kidney Stones: While often used as a home remedy for preventing kidney stones, excessive citrus intake in dehydrated individuals can, paradoxically, increase the risk for some types of kidney stones.
Increased Iron Absorption: Vitamin C significantly boosts the body's absorption of iron. For people with hemochromatosis (a condition of iron overload), this can be problematic.

Mitigating the Risks

Fortunately, you can enjoy the benefits of limes and lemons while minimizing the negative side effects. Here are some simple strategies:

Dilute, Dilute, Dilute: Always dilute concentrated lemon or lime juice with plenty of water. This significantly lowers the acidity and protects both your teeth and stomach.
Use a Straw: Drinking citrus beverages through a straw minimizes contact between the acidic liquid and your tooth enamel.
Rinse Your Mouth: After consuming citrus, rinse your mouth with plain water to help neutralize the acid. Wait at least 30 minutes before brushing, as brushing immediately after can damage softened enamel.
Listen to Your Body: If you experience acid reflux or digestive discomfort, consider reducing your intake or avoiding citrus altogether. Moderation is always key.

Comparison of Lime and Lemon Side Effects


Feature	Limes	Lemons
Dental Erosion	High acidity poses a significant risk to tooth enamel, increasing sensitivity and cavity risk.	High acidity poses a significant risk to tooth enamel, increasing sensitivity and cavity risk.
Gastrointestinal Issues	Can trigger or worsen GERD, heartburn, and stomach upset due to high acidity.	Can trigger or worsen GERD, heartburn, and stomach upset due to high acidity.
Allergic Reactions	Rare, but can cause oral symptoms or contact dermatitis for sensitive individuals.	Rare, but can cause oral symptoms or contact dermatitis for sensitive individuals.
Skin Photosensitivity	Causes phytophotodermatitis, a skin reaction to sunlight, if juice touches the skin.	Can also cause phytophotodermatitis if juice touches the skin and is exposed to the sun.
Mouth Ulcers	Can irritate and cause stinging pain in open sores.	Can irritate and cause stinging pain in open sores.

Conclusion

While limes and lemons are beneficial in moderation, it is important to be aware of the potential side effects, especially with frequent consumption. The risks of dental enamel erosion, worsening of acid reflux, and rare allergic reactions are primarily due to their high citric acid content. By practicing moderation and using simple techniques like dilution and rinsing, most individuals can enjoy the flavor and nutritional benefits without adverse effects. Individuals with pre-existing conditions like GERD or sensitive teeth should consult with a healthcare professional before significantly increasing their citrus intake. For more detailed information on vitamin C intake and potential risks, the NIH Office of Dietary Supplements provides comprehensive guidelines: NIH Office of Dietary Supplements.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, frequent consumption of lemon or lime water can erode tooth enamel due to its high acid content. Using a straw and rinsing your mouth with plain water afterward can help minimize this risk.

Yes, for individuals prone to acid reflux or GERD, the high acidity of citrus fruits can trigger or worsen symptoms by irritating the esophagus and relaxing the esophageal sphincter.

Phytophotodermatitis is a skin reaction that occurs when skin, contaminated with a compound found in citrus juice, is exposed to sunlight. It can cause inflammation, rashes, and blistering.

Citrus allergies are relatively rare, but they can occur. Symptoms include tingling or itching in the mouth, hives, and swelling. If you suspect an allergy, consult a doctor.

There is no set amount, as it varies by individual tolerance. Generally, excessive intake refers to consuming large quantities of undiluted juice or constantly sipping on acidic drinks throughout the day. Moderation is key.

Yes, the acidity in limes and lemons can irritate and cause a stinging sensation on mouth ulcers, cuts, or canker sores.

The side effects are very similar for both limes and lemons, as they have comparable nutritional and acidic properties. Both pose risks to dental and gastrointestinal health if consumed excessively.