The advice has been circulating for years on the internet and in numerous books. When we wake up, it would be good for our health to swallow a glass of lemon juice or cider vinegar. Regularly, the latter is highlighted in best-selling books, or by naturopaths or other practitioners in so-called complementary medicine. It would improve the digestionwould reduce the blood sugar or would do losing weight. So what is it really?
Lemon juice has benefits, but it does not “lose weight”
“ No scientific study has really demonstrated the benefit of taking this type of drink upon waking up. If we expect miracles with this kind of advice, we risk disappointment. “, emphasizes the Dr Laurent Chevallier, nutritionist. Regarding lemon juice, it may offer some benefits, but not the one to lose weight. ” It is a fruit rich in vitamin C. So an anti-fatigue ally, and a good antioxidant. There is no doubt that this contribution is interesting. But lemon is not the only one. There are other fruits with the same properties », continues Dr Chevalier. Another virtue that we attribute to this morning juice: the fact of facilitate intestinal transit. ” The same effect is obtained with a large glass of water. “, tempers the specialist.
Be careful if you have intestinal problems
For the cider vinegar, caution is also required. “The question is often addressed in scientific studies, but until now there is no tangible and irrefutable evidence. Only hypotheses that sometimes contradict each other “says the doctor. In any case, great caution must be observed with regard to this advice, even if it is given everywhere. These drinks stay acids and for people with problems digestive or intestinal, this is not the best idea. This can result in stomach upset and sometimes even ulcers if we are very fragile.
Furthermore, pure lemon juice is not recommended for dental health. It can indeed attack their enamel and demineralize them, which opens the way to the appearance of cavities and a more pronounced sensitivity to hot and cold.
If you really want to drink this beverage when you wake up, it is better not to consume it pure but diluted in water, then rinse your mouth afterwards to eliminate any risk of acid attack on the teeth. You can also use a straw to counteract the negative effects. As for cider vinegar before each meal to lower the glycemic index as recommended by a number of bestsellers, you can also give it up because there are other ways to achieve the same effect. For example, start your meals with raw vegetables seasoned with vinaigrette. A much more pleasant and easier habit than a spoonful of vinegar alone!
Thanks to Doctor Laurent Chevallier, nutritionist
