What are the risks of drinking water infused with lemon slices?
Sep 13, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yu Yongchao
Introduction
Improper consumption of lemon slice-infused water may potentially cause harm, including dental damage, gastrointestinal irritation, exacerbation of stomach conditions, induction of skin photosensitive reactions, and interference with medication effectiveness. When consuming lemon slice-infused water, it is recommended to control the concentration and amount ingested, avoid drinking it on an empty stomach, and rinse the mouth promptly after consumption. Additionally, during medication treatment, it is best to separate the timing of medication intake from the consumption of lemon slice-infused water.
Generally, if lemon slices infused in water are consumed improperly, potential risks may include damage to teeth, gastrointestinal irritation, exacerbation of stomach conditions, induction of skin photosensitivity reactions, and interference with medication efficacy. A detailed analysis is as follows:
1. Damage to teeth: Lemon slices infused in water have a high acidity level, and the citric acid they contain can erode the enamel on the tooth surface. Failure to rinse the mouth promptly after long-term or excessive consumption may damage the enamel, leading to tooth sensitivity and pain when exposed to hot, cold, sour, or sweet foods, and increasing the risk of dental caries.
2. Gastrointestinal irritation: Drinking lemon water on an empty stomach or consuming excessive amounts at one time may strongly irritate the gastric mucosa due to its acidic components. This may cause gastrointestinal discomfort, manifesting as stomach pain, bloating, acid reflux, heartburn, and other symptoms. The irritation is particularly evident in individuals with weaker gastrointestinal function.
3. Worsening of gastric diseases: Individuals with gastric conditions such as gastritis, peptic ulcer, or gastroesophageal reflux disease already have damaged or dysfunctional gastric mucosa. The acidity of lemon water may further irritate the affected areas, worsening existing symptoms, such as increased frequency of stomach pain and more pronounced acid reflux, which is detrimental to recovery.
4. Induction of skin photosensitivity reactions: Lemons contain furocoumarins, which are photosensitive substances. After consuming large amounts of lemon water, prolonged exposure to strong sunlight may increase the skin's sensitivity to ultraviolet radiation, making it prone to sunburn, redness, and the development of pigmentation spots.
5. Interference with medication effectiveness: Lemon water may interact with certain medications, affecting drug absorption and therapeutic effects. For example, when taken with antihypertensive drugs, lipid-lowering drugs, or certain antibiotics, it may interfere with the metabolic process of the drugs in the body, reducing efficacy or increasing the likelihood of adverse reactions.
When drinking lemon water, it is recommended to control the concentration and amount consumed, avoid drinking on an empty stomach, and rinse the mouth promptly afterward. Additionally, during medication use, it is best to separate the timing of lemon water consumption to minimize potential interactions.
