A new combination is trending in the drinks world: coffee with lemon. Health benefits are expected from it, beyond those provided by both ingredients separately.
And although it is not written anywhere that these products cannot be mixed, it remains to be seen what happens with the benefits that their consumption promises.
Coffee with lemon
The exact formula to prepare it is to add the juice of one lemon to 240 millilitres of coffee. And although for some people it may seem like an unusual combination, for others it has become a promise of positive health effects.
Almost certainly many think that lemon is the best companion for a cup of tea. But traditionally, this mixture was already drunk in some specific regions as a refreshing drink to combat the heat.
To begin to shed a little light on its use and usefulness in terms of health, it is best to review the benefits that these two ingredients provide separately.
The benefits of coffee
To prepare coffee, dry and crushed beans are mixed with very hot water. A simple process for one of the most consumed beverages around the world According to data from the British Coffee Association, around 2 billion cups are drunk a day.
Over time, its consumption has enjoyed good and bad fame. For this reason, science has made it one of its focuses of attention. It is known for being a stimulating food, capable of improving some aspects such as memory, concentration and fatigue.
Coffee intake has been investigated for different health parameters. However as the authors of an important summary of existing studies point out, many of them are observational, so we must be cautious with our conclusions.
The positive associations between coffee and liver diseases (cirrhosis, non-alcoholic fatty liver or liver fibrosis) are among the most consistent. There also appears to be a lower chance of developing liver cancer.
Similarly, the authors noted a lower risk of death from any cause among coffee drinkers than non-coffee drinkers. and a lower incidence of cardiovascular disease and metabolic problems such as type 2 diabetes.
The optimal consumption threshold appears to be 3 cups a day. While a higher intake doesn’t seem dangerous, it doesn’t provide more benefits either.
There is no indication of harmful effects with continued use of the drink, except for the recommendation not to consume it during pregnancy and in women who are at high risk of fractures.
What does lemon provide to the body?
Citrus fruits are grown around the world and are known to be one of the most consumed fruits. Their contributions to vitamins and other phytochemicals have made them products used for therapeutic purposes.
Its most prominent nutrient is vitamin C. It plays key functions in the body, such as helping bone development, healing wounds, and maintaining healthy gums.
Furthermore, at a metabolic level, it allows the activation of group B vitamins, the conversion of cholesterol into bile acids and the transformation of tryptophan into serotonin.
This important micronutrient acts in synergy with other elements, such as flavonoids, carotenes, alkaloids and essential oils. Thanks to these, science has been able to relate them to some positive health effects:
- Antioxidant: allows you to counteract free radicals. The presence of these plays a critical role in aging, inflammation and heart disease.
- Increased consumption of citrus fruits is related to lower mortality and morbidity due to cardiovascular problems.
- Vitamin C protects the immune system, reducing the severity of allergic reactions and helping to fight basic infections, such as the cold.
Popular beliefs about the benefits of coffee with lemon
Beyond the positive effects that both have individually, there are some claims about health improvements associated with drinking coffee with lemon. This promise about this drink.
Loss of body fat
One of the most tempting promises is this. However, neither coffee nor lemons have been shown to be foods that are capable of causing lipid accumulation from the body. Some studies have looked at caffeine’s ability to increase metabolism and thereby burn calories. However, it has no effect on weight loss and fat loss.
Therefore, it seems that science is clear and the veracity of this belief cannot be demonstrated at the moment. In any case, coffee helps reduce the feeling of hunger.
Headache control
The second popular claim about this mixture is also not supported by scientific data. There may even be some contradiction, since in some cases coffee consumption has been related to migraines.
Although it is known that combining caffeine with medication can amplify the effects of the drugs, lemon has no benefit in this regard.
Coffee with lemon promotes healthier skin
Increasing fruit and vegetable intake can help to improve the health of your skin. However, the exact component causing it is unknown at this time.
For this reason, it is usually a good idea to follow the standard guideline to eat three pieces of fruit each day. Additionally, the addition of vitamin C promotes the synthesis of collagen if the fruit is a lemon or other citrus fruit. This protein supports the dermis’s strength and suppleness.
Diarrhea relief
This is the last of the popular beliefs about this drink and it does not seem to be supported by the data obtained so far. Quite the opposite, since caffeine increases colon movements and accelerates the urge to go to the bathroom.
Coffee intake is not indicated in an episode of diarrhea, since its diuretic effect can worsen the fluid loss that occurs with increased bowel movements.
Does mixing coffee with lemon enhance its benefits?
Eating coffee and lemon has positive effects on health, as long as they are consumed within the framework of a healthy diet and healthy lifestyle habits. Now, at the moment the same cannot be said about the result of their mixture.
Does this mean that it is a bad option to drink your usual coffee with a splash of lemon juice? Not at all. This can be one of the morning choices to wake up, but no magical effects should be expected. Thanks to the lemon, the coffee gains freshness and its bitter flavour is softened.
The latest trend in drinks does not have the promised effects
Many people usually drink hot water with lemon or coffee in the morning. Each of them can be beneficial, although the sum of both does not seem to have more positive effects.
In any case, it has not been proven that it improves headaches or helps reduce body fat. Nor is it a drink of choice in case of diarrhea.
So it is possible to choose the best companion for black tea to refresh a good coffee. As long as its taste is pleasant and its consumption does not produce adverse side effects.
Ingesting moderate doses of each of them or the mixture appears to be safe. But we must not forget that more quantity is not always synonymous with more benefits. Abusing them could have harmful effects.
FAQ
1. Is it strange to add lemon to coffee?
Adding lemon to coffee might seem unusual to some, but it’s actually a practice with historical roots in certain cultures. In places like Italy and parts of the Middle East, a shot of lemon is sometimes added to espresso to enhance its flavour or cut its bitterness. While it may not be common everywhere, experimenting with flavours in coffee is a personal preference, so feel free to give it a try if you’re curious!
2. What does adding lemon do to the taste of coffee?
The addition of lemon to coffee can impart a subtle citrusy brightness to the brew. Lemon’s acidity can balance out the bitterness of coffee, providing a refreshing twist to the flavour profile. It can also enhance the aroma, giving your coffee a fragrant and invigorating quality. However, the impact on taste can vary depending on factors like the type of coffee beans used and the brewing method employed.
3. How can I make coffee with lemon at home?
Making coffee with lemon at home is quite simple. Start by brewing your preferred style of coffee – whether it’s espresso, drip, or French press. Once brewed, squeeze a fresh lemon wedge into your coffee, adjusting the amount to your taste preferences. Stir well to ensure the lemon juice is evenly distributed. For added complexity, you can also experiment with lemon zest or lemon peel infusion. Enjoy your unique twist on a classic beverage!
Final Thought: Coffee with Lamon
Coffee with lemon offers a refreshing twist to your daily brew. With just a squeeze of lemon, you can enhance the flavour of your coffee, adding a subtle citrusy brightness that balances out its bitterness. It’s a simple yet delightful way to elevate your coffee experience and awaken your senses.