Fact Check: Can Drinking Lemon Water Boost Immune System?

Claim

In a Pinterest post, it is claimed that Drinking Lemon Water can Boost the Immune System. The post is titled "Health Benefits Of Drinking Lemon Water" The user in the post writes that Lemon is a natural energizer; it hydrates and oxygenates the body so it feels revitalized and refreshed! There are various health claims made in the post by the user Dora Oloblial which include that lemon Balances pH, Flush out unwanted materials, Decrease wrinkles and blemishes, Relieve tooth pain, Relieves respiratory problems, Cures Throat Infections, Excellent for Weight Loss, Reduces Fever and Blood purifier. Amongst all these claims the user also claims that drinking lemon water can Boost your immune system.

The post can be accessed here.

Fact Check

The claim by Pinterest user that Drinking Lemon Water can Boost the Immune System is Mostly True. Lemon water provides vitamin C, which supports immune health, but its overall impact is moderate.

What are the Health Benefits Of Lemon?

Lemons (Citrus limon) are a rich source of Vitamin C, an essential nutrient that supports immune system function and helps the body fight infections. They are also packed with antioxidants, which combat oxidative stress and inflammation, promoting heart health by improving cholesterol levels and reducing blood pressure. The citric acid in lemons aids digestion by stimulating gastric juices, and their alkalizing effect on the body helps balance pH levels. Additionally, lemons are known for their ability to enhance skin health due to their vitamin C content, which supports collagen production and reduces skin aging.

Ms Edwina Raj, Head of Services - Clinical Nutrition & Dietetics, Aster CMI Hospital, Bangalore explained, "Lemon water offers a multitude of health benefits that can enhance overall well-being. Firstly, it serves as an excellent source of vitamin C, which is essential for boosting your immune system, enhancing the absorption of plant-based iron and promoting skin health. Staying hydrated with lemon water can help to promote a feeling of fullness and reduce cravings. Lastly, the refreshing taste of lemon water through fruit-infused water encourages increased fluid intake, which is vital for maintaining optimal hydration levels throughout the day."

What is the role of the immune system in the body?

The immune system is defined as a complex network of cells, tissues, organs, and the substances they produce that work together to protect the body against infections and other diseases. It includes white blood cells, as well as organs and tissues of the lymphatic system such as the thymus, spleen, tonsils, lymph nodes, lymph vessels, and bone marrow.

The immune system plays a crucial role in safeguarding your body from harmful substances, germs, and cellular changes that can lead to illness. It consists of different organs, cells, and proteins. When the immune system functions effectively, it is typically not noticed. However, if it becomes compromised due to weakness or an inability to combat particularly aggressive germs make people fall ill. New or unfamiliar germs are also more likely to cause illness. Certain germs, such as those responsible for childhood diseases like chickenpox, often only make you sick upon your first exposure.

Can Drinking Lemon Water Boost the Immune System?

Lemons are abundant in Vitamin C, which may enhance immune defense by aiding various cellular activities in both the innate and adaptive immune systems. Although vitamin C contributes to immune support, drinking lemon water by itself does not provide a boost to the immune system. Its effect is modest, and a well-rounded diet with a variety of vitamins and minerals is more effective for maintaining strong immune health.

Being a potent source of vitamin C, lemons help strengthen the immune system. According to a study published in Food Science and Nutrition, lemons, like other citrus fruits, are abundant in vitamin C, an essential nutrient that enhances immune cell function and supports the body's defense against infections. Vitamin C promotes the production of B and T cells, crucial white blood cells that fight infections, and acts as an antioxidant, protecting the immune system from damage by free radicals.

Another study from a journal of Unani Medicine which was conducted by Dr. Arshi Anjum et. al. found that lemon aids in several functions of neutrophils, which are crucial immune cells, by enhancing chemotaxis, increasing particle ingestion, and promoting non-oxidative killing facilitated by lysozyme. Additionally, vitamin C helps defend against the harmful effects of superoxide anion radicals, suppresses the halide-peroxide-myeloperoxidase system without significantly impacting bacteria, and activates the hexose monophosphate pathway. Together, these functions may contribute to a strong and effective immune response.

P. Kandasamy et al. reported that lemons contain a high level of D-limonene, which contributes to immune system support. The study emphasizes that lemons' antioxidants may help safeguard the eyes from age-related problems, like macular degeneration, and aid in the prevention of diseases, including cancer and heart ailments.

Scientific evidence indicates that lemons, known for their high vitamin C content, may support immune health. They are also a good source of D-limonene, which plays a role in supporting the immune system. However, it is important to understand that consuming lemons alone is unlikely to produce rapid enhancement in immunity.

The Medical Dialogues Fact Check Team spoke with Dr Edwina Raj, Head of Services - Clinical Nutrition & Dietetics, Aster CMI Hospital, Bangalore. She said, "The potential benefits of consuming lemon water about enhancing the immune system have garnered considerable attention. Lemon water, which is simply water infused with the juice of fresh lemons, is rich in vitamin C, a nutrient known for its role in supporting immune function. The antioxidants present in lemons may also contribute to reducing inflammation and combating oxidative stress, which can further bolster the body's defenses against infections. Additionally, staying well-hydrated is crucial for overall health, as it aids in the efficient functioning of bodily systems, including the immune response. Therefore, incorporating lemon water into one's daily routine may serve as a simple yet effective strategy to promote immune health. But not recommended to consume it in empty stomach or in large quantity."

Medical Dialogues Final Take

The claim that drinking lemon water can boost the immune system is mostly true as lemon water provides vitamin C, an essential nutrient known to support immune function. Vitamin C helps maintain the health of the skin and acts as an antioxidant, contributing to the body's defense mechanisms. However, while vitamin C plays a role in supporting overall immune health, drinking lemon water alone does not offer an immediate boost to the immune system. The impact is moderate, and a balanced diet rich in various vitamins and minerals is more effective for robust immune health.

Hence, the claim by Pinterest user is Mostly true.