9 Side Effects of Lemon Water on an Empty Stomach & What To Do

By Alex Assoune Jul 25, 2025

Drinking lemon water on an empty stomach has become a popular morning ritual for many. From aiding digestion to boosting immunity, this simple mix of water and lemon juice is often praised as a health tonic. However, like most health trends, lemon water isn’t one-size-fits-all—and drinking it first thing in the morning may not be beneficial for everyone.

This article explores the potential side effects of drinking lemon water on an empty stomach, based on science, expert opinions, and individual health conditions.

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What Is Lemon Water?

Lemon water is a simple drink made by squeezing fresh lemon juice into water, typically served warm or at room temperature. Some people add ingredients like honey, ginger, or cayenne pepper, but the base is always lemon and water.

A standard glass contains:

Juice of ½ a lemon (~1 tablespoon or 15 ml)
8 to 10 oz of warm or room temperature water

Lemons are rich in vitamin C, flavonoids, and citric acid, making this beverage a source of hydration and antioxidants. But what happens when you drink it first thing in the morning on an empty stomach?

Common Beliefs About Morning Lemon Water

Before diving into the side effects, let’s quickly look at the popular health claims associated with drinking lemon water on an empty stomach:

Boosts metabolism
Aids digestion and detox
Promotes weight loss
Enhances immunity
Clears skin
Balances body pH

While many of these claims have some merit, others are exaggerated or based on anecdotal evidence. More importantly, they often ignore how lemon water affects different individuals—especially when consumed on an empty stomach.

1. Can Trigger Acid Reflux or Heartburn

Why it happens:

Lemons are acidic, with a pH between 2 and 3. When consumed on an empty stomach, this acidity can irritate the lining of the esophagus and relax the lower esophageal sphincter (LES)—the valve that keeps stomach contents from flowing backward.

Who's affected:

People with GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease)
Those prone to acid reflux, heartburn, or indigestion
Anyone with a sensitive stomach lining

Symptoms:

Burning in the chest or throat
Sour taste in the mouth
Bloating or burping
Nausea or stomach discomfort

Tip:

If you love lemon water but suffer from reflux, try diluting it more, or drink it after breakfast instead of before.

2. May Irritate the Stomach Lining

Why it happens:

Lemon juice’s citric acid can be too harsh for an empty, unbuffered stomach, especially if you already suffer from gastritis, ulcers, or a sensitive digestive tract.

Risks:

Stomach cramps or burning
Increased acidity that may lead to inflammation
Worsening of pre-existing ulcers

Clinical Insight:

Some gastroenterologists caution against drinking any acidic liquids (like lemon or orange juice) first thing in the morning, especially for patients with stomach issues.

3. Can Lead to Tooth Enamel Erosion

Why it happens:

The high acidity in lemon juice can soften tooth enamel. Over time, especially with daily consumption, this can lead to:

Tooth sensitivity
Erosion of enamel
Increased risk of cavities

It’s worse on an empty stomach because:

Saliva production is low in the morning, offering less natural protection
Brushing teeth immediately after lemon water can cause more enamel wear

Prevention tips:

Use a straw to minimize contact with teeth
Rinse your mouth with plain water afterward
Wait at least 30 minutes before brushing your teeth

4. May Aggravate Mouth or Throat Irritation

Lemon water’s acidity can irritate the mucous membranes of the mouth and throat, particularly when consumed frequently and without food.

Possible effects:

Sore throat
Dry mouth
Hoarseness
Minor mouth ulcers

Those with chronic throat sensitivity, vocal strain, or oral ulcers may find lemon water uncomfortable, especially first thing in the morning.

5. Could Cause Frequent Urination and Dehydration

Lemon water acts as a mild natural diuretic, especially in higher doses. It may increase urine production due to:

The body's reaction to citric acid
The flushing effect of vitamin C
Increased water intake itself

When problematic:

If you're not compensating with additional fluids during the day
If it leads to mild electrolyte imbalance or dehydration symptoms like dizziness, fatigue, or dry mouth

Note: This effect is usually mild but may be amplified if you're drinking large quantities of lemon water in the morning.

6. May Affect People with Citrus Allergies or Sensitivities

Although rare, citrus allergies or intolerances can cause side effects when drinking lemon water, particularly on an empty stomach when the body is more reactive.

Symptoms:

Nausea
Abdominal pain
Rashes or itchiness
Swelling in the lips or tongue

If you suspect a citrus sensitivity, consult with your healthcare provider before drinking lemon water regularly.

7. Can Lower Blood Sugar Too Much (In Rare Cases)

Some research shows that lemon may improve insulin sensitivity or reduce post-meal blood sugar spikes. While this is generally positive, those taking blood sugar–lowering medications or managing diabetes should monitor closely.

Risk:

On an empty stomach, in combination with certain meds or fasting, lemon water may contribute to:

Light-headedness
Shakiness
Low energy

This is not common but is worth noting for people with blood sugar issues.

8. Potential Impact on People with Kidney Conditions

Lemons are rich in potassium and citric acid, both of which are normally healthy. However, in people with kidney dysfunction, consuming too much potassium or citrus could strain the kidneys.

When to be cautious:

If you’re on a potassium-restricted diet
If you have chronic kidney disease
If you’re advised to avoid high-acid foods

Always check with your doctor before adding citrus-heavy drinks to your diet if you have any form of kidney disease.

9. May Interact with Certain Medications

Lemon and other citrus fruits (especially grapefruit) can interfere with drug metabolism in the liver. While lemons are not as potent as grapefruit in this regard, caution is advised.

Drugs that may be affected:

Some blood pressure medications
Cholesterol-lowering drugs (statins)
Antidepressants
Anti-anxiety drugs

While the risk is small, drinking lemon water daily on an empty stomach could increase the chance of side effects or reduced drug effectiveness. Always consult your doctor if you’re on long-term medications.

How to Minimize Side Effects

If you enjoy lemon water in the morning but want to avoid the downsides, here are some science-backed tips:

Tip	Why It Helps
Dilute with more water	Reduces acidity and protects stomach lining
Use a straw	Minimizes tooth exposure to acid
Rinse your mouth	Washes away acid, protects enamel
Wait before brushing teeth	Avoids brushing softened enamel
Avoid if you have reflux or ulcers	Prevents irritation
Start with small amounts	Helps your body adjust gradually
Eat something shortly afterward	Buffers the acidity

Who Should Avoid Lemon Water on an Empty Stomach?

You may want to avoid this practice if you:

Have acid reflux, GERD, or ulcers
Have high tooth sensitivity or enamel erosion
Suffer from throat or mouth irritation
Are prone to frequent urination or dehydration
Have a citrus allergy or sensitivity
Are managing kidney issues or certain medications

For these individuals, lemon water after breakfast or diluted throughout the day may be a safer choice.

Final Thoughts: Should You Drink Lemon Water on an Empty Stomach?

Drinking lemon water on an empty stomach can offer health benefits like hydration, a vitamin C boost, and digestive support. But it’s not without its risks—particularly if you have a sensitive stomach, dental concerns, or certain health conditions.

Summary of Key Side Effects:

Acid reflux or heartburn
Tooth enamel erosion
Stomach irritation or ulcers
Throat discomfort
Citrus allergies or interactions with medications

Verdict:

If you tolerate lemon water well and find it helpful, there’s no need to stop. But listen to your body. If you experience discomfort, consider adjusting:

The amount of lemon juice
The time of day you drink it
How diluted it is

Lemon water is not a cure-all, but when used wisely, it can be part of a balanced wellness routine.

References

Fass, R., et al. (2005). “Pathophysiology of GERD.” Alimentary Pharmacology & Therapeutics.
Touyz, R.M. (2004). "Potassium intake and kidney health." Clinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology.
American Dental Association (ADA). “Acidic Beverages and Tooth Erosion.”
Mayo Clinic. (2023). “Citrus and Medication Interactions.”
National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK).

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About the Author: Alex Assoune

Alex Assoune (MS) is a global health and environmental advocate. He founded Panaprium to inspire others with conscious living, ethical, and sustainable fashion. Alex has worked in many countries to address social and environmental issues. He speaks three languages and holds two Master of Science degrees in Engineering from SIGMA and IFPEN schools.

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