Order Ice Water with Lemon

Have you ever wondered why most restaurants serve you a glass of ice cold water with a slice or wedge of lemon? It is actually for your benefit. Fresh lemon and lemon oil are actually a great natural digestive aid because of their vast beneficial properties.

For starters, lemon can actually help to minimize acid in the stomach. This may seem strange because lemon is very acidic in nature, but once metabolized, lemon has an alkalizing effect, especially since it contains calcium, magnesium, and potassium. (See how these minerals help to reduce acid by reading Understanding pH)

Lemon is a natural cleanser both on your skin and in your digestive tract. This is due to its antiseptic, antibacterial, and Anti-fungal properties. These are immune boosting properties because they fight infections, and the vitamin and flavanoid (antioxidant) content also helps boost the immune system.

For anyone who suffers from digestive disorders, the best thing about lemon is its carminative property. This means that it can actually relieve and prevent flatulence. Lemon accomplishes this in two ways: 1.) lemon suppresses the formation of gas, and 2.) lemon acts as an expectorant to expel gas from the digestive tract. This helps to also relieve and prevent bloating, cramping, and discomfort. These benefits go a long way to minimize damage to the stomach and minimize the acid that fuels heartburn, acid reflux, GERD, and Barrett’s Esophagus.

Using lemon to combat acid is very simple. If you have fresh lemons in your kitchen, squeeze a half of a lemon into an 8 oz. glass of lukewarm water (lukewarm is best). Drink this either before a meal or after you feel heartburn and/or indigestion. One drop of lemon essential oil in 8 oz. of water is equally beneficial. Lemon oil is expressed from the peel of a fresh lemon and can be purchased at any health food store that sells essential oils. Be sure to verify the quality of the oil and that it is meant for consumption. Some lemon oils are strictly for topical use.