What does lemon water with cayenne pepper do?

Drinking lemon water with cayenne pepper has become a popular health trend, with claims that it can help with weight loss, metabolism, digestion, and more. But what does the science say? Here, we’ll explore the potential benefits and downsides of this tangy, spicy drink.

The Potential Benefits

There are a few key ingredients in lemon water with cayenne pepper that may offer health perks:

Lemons

Lemons are high in vitamin C, an important antioxidant. Some research shows that getting enough vitamin C is linked to:

– Strengthened immune system
– Lower blood pressure
– Reduced stroke risk
– Improved skin appearance

Lemons also contain small amounts of potassium, folate, flavonoids, and antioxidants. These may provide benefits like:

• Lowering blood pressure
• Reducing inflammation
• Supporting heart health

Additionally, some studies find that the citric acid in lemon juice can help break down kidney stones, preventing stone formation.

Cayenne Pepper

Cayenne pepper gets its heat from a compound called capsaicin. According to research, capsaicin may:

• Boost metabolism and fat burning
• Reduce hunger and calorie intake
• Support heart health
• Relieve pain by reducing substance P, a neurotransmitter involved in pain signaling

One study had participants take cayenne pepper for breakfast and found it reduced hunger and increased the calories burned after a meal.

However, more research is still needed to determine optimal dosing.

Potential Digestive Benefits

Proponents claim that lemon water with cayenne can stimulate digestion in the following ways:

• Improving production of digestive fluids like saliva, bile, and stomach acid.
• Boosting gut motility (contractions that move food through the system).
• Supporting growth of healthy gut bacteria.

The high vitamin C content of lemons may also help absorption of iron from foods.

While these effects seem plausible, human studies are needed before strong conclusions can be made.

Possible Downsides and Precautions

Lemon water with cayenne is likely safe for most people when consumed in moderation. However, there are some potential downsides to keep in mind:

• Can irritate the esophagus and stomach. The acidity of lemon juice and heat of cayenne may not suit those with reflux, ulcers, or other gastrointestinal issues.
• May interact with certain medications, including blood thinners and diabetes drugs. Those taking medications should consult their healthcare provider before trying this combo drink.
• Not enough research in children, pregnant women, and breastfeeding moms. These groups should exercise caution until more studies are conducted.
• May cause a burning sensation when going to the bathroom. This side effect is temporary but still uncomfortable.
• Skin irritation if handled improperly when preparing. Both lemons and cayenne can cause rashes, burns, or irritation if gotten on skin.

It’s also important not to overdo it on the cayenne pepper. Consuming very spicy foods on a regular basis may increase risks for gastrointestinal issues like ulcers, acid reflux, and IBS.

How to Drink Lemon Water with Cayenne Pepper

If you’d like to give this drink a try, here are some preparation tips:

Ingredients

• 1 cup warm or hot water
• Juice from 1/2 a lemon
• 1/8 to 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• Optional: 1 teaspoon maple syrup or raw honey to taste

Instructions

1. Add the cayenne and lemon juice to your cup first.
2. Pour in the warm water.
3. Stir thoroughly until well combined.
4. Add sweetener if desired, and adjust lemon and cayenne to taste.
5. Drink immediately or let cool slightly if too hot.

Some tips:

• Always use fresh lemon juice rather than bottled juice for maximum benefits.
• Start with just a dash of cayenne and work up slowly to assess your tolerance.
• Drink through a straw to minimize contact with teeth. Citric acid can erode tooth enamel over time.

You can drink this concoction first thing in the morning, between meals, or before bedtime. Many advise drinking it on an empty stomach about 30 minutes before eating for optimal digestion and metabolism stimulation.

Suggested Dosages and Timing

There is no standardized dosage for lemon water with cayenne pepper. Most recommendations suggest the following general guidelines:

When	Lemon Juice	Cayenne Pepper
Morning	Juice of 1/2 lemon	1/8 teaspoon
Mid-Afternoon	Juice of 1/2 lemon	1/8 to 1/4 teaspoon
Before Bed	Juice of 1 lemon	1/8 teaspoon

Start on the lower end of cayenne and adjust up based on your preferences and tolerance. It’s best to consume this drink no more than 2-3 times per day.

It’s also smart to avoid drinking it right after intense exercise, as the acidity may irritate the esophagus when excessive panting occurs.

Does It Really Work for Weight Loss?

Some research indicates that capsaicin, the active compound in cayenne pepper, may have metabolism and fat-burning properties. However, most existing studies use concentrated capsaicin supplements rather than cayenne pepper itself.

While the capsaicin in cayenne and lemon water may provide a small metabolism boost, it’s unlikely to produce significant weight loss on its own.

That said, swapping out higher calorie beverages like juice or soda with lemon water can help reduce excess calorie intake and promote weight loss over time.

The Bottom Line

Lemon water with cayenne pepper is generally safe to consume and may offer some digestive, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant benefits.

However, its effects on metabolism, weight loss, and digestion require more scientific backup before strong conclusions can be made.

This drink is not a magic bullet for health and should be enjoyed in moderation as part of an overall healthy lifestyle.

Those with gastrointestinal issues may want to avoid it or consult their healthcare practitioner first. But otherwise, incorporating this tangy and spicy drink into your routine a few times per week can be a refreshing way to add variation and potential perks.