Being an excellent source of vitamin C, lemons can be a great immune system booster. Its vitamin C content improves the function of “natural killer cells,” which help to eliminate infection, and aid in antimicrobial activity; helps the body’s cells resist oxidative damage; and helps the body’s own helper cells such as lymphocytes. From preventing common cold and acne to regulating blood pressure and decreasing the risk of cardiovascular diseases and strokes, vitamin C has many important functions. According to the US Department of Agriculture, one lemon provides 8.6 mg of vitamin C. The daily vitamin C requirement of an adult is 70 to 90 mg.
Moreover, lemons also possess high amounts of potassium and folate that keep our bodies healthy. In addition to its antiviral and antibacterial properties, lemons have natural phytonutrients and gut-healing properties that add an extra boost to our immune system.
One way of enjoying lemon’s immune-boosting powers is by consuming lemon water.
How To Make Lemon Water
Making lemon water is simply easy. This recipe makes for 8 cups of water at a time, perfect for parties, or for storing in the refrigerator and sipping on all day long.
- Thinly slice a lemon and place it in the bottom of a large pitcher.
- Lightly mash the lemon using a wooden spoon. Doing this releases its juices.
- Add 8 cups cold water and refrigerate at least 1 hour before serving.
Optionally, we can also add 1 tsp each of freshly grated ginger and honey to help our liver properly purge toxins and rebuild its glucose reserves. Adding 1 tsp of cayenne pepper may also enhance its immune-boosting capabilities.
When Is The Best Time To Drink Lemon Water?
Lemon water can do wonders for our health if we consume it on an empty stomach first thing in the morning. Doing this will enable beneficial nutrients from the lemon to be easily absorbed by the cells and tissues. Aside from this, it will also jump-start our digestive system and purge the liver of toxins it collected during the night and flushes it out of the body.
