Which is better for the digestive system, immune system and overall health, lemon water or apple cider vinegar? Both have numerous health benefits and several drawbacks to consider when making the best choice for you. Check out all the best information from pulled from scientific studies on lemon water vs. apple cider vinegar.
Table of Contents
Benefits: Comparing the Benefits of Lemon Water vs. Apple Cider Vinegar
The benefits of lemon water and apple cider vinegar (ACV) do overlap some. Both contain acetic acid at varying levels which is responsible for many of the health benefits. Despite the overlap, there are certain differences between them.
Lemon water can help with hydration by increasing fluid intake and maintaining hydration levels. It is also believed to improve skin health by boosting collagen synthesis and reducing oxidative stress. The lemon pulp has lots of these benefits so consider using it in your water or recipes.
There are also a lot of health benefits of apple cider vinegar, it can regulate your blood sugar level and improve insulin sensitivity to aid in weight loss by reducing appetite and promoting fat burning. It may also improve heart health by decreasing cholesterol levels and reducing high blood pressure.
Tooth Enamel: Comparing the Effects of Lemon Water vs. Apple Cider Vinegar on Tooth Enamel
Both apple cider vinegar (ACV) and lemon water can pose a potential harm to tooth enamel due to their acidic nature. However, ACV is generally more acidic than lemon juice, meaning that it may have a greater likelihood to erode tooth enamel.
ACV typically has a pH ranging from 2.8 to 3.0, while the pH of lemon juice ranges from 2.0 to 2.6. Since the pH scale is logarithmic, each incremental decrease in pH represents a tenfold increase in acidity. Thus, ACV is approximately ten times more acidic than lemon juice. When acidic beverages come into contact with tooth enamel, they can soften and weaken it, making it susceptible to erosion over time.
To avoid or reduce the risk of tooth enamel erosion, it’s recommended to consume acidic drinks like ACV and lemon water in moderation, avoid swishing or retaining them in the mouth for prolonged periods, drink them through a straw to lessen contact with teeth, rinse the mouth with water after consuming them, and maintain proper oral hygiene practices such as frequent brushing and flossing.
Empty Stomach: Comparing Lemon Water vs. Apple Cider Vinegar consumption on an empty stomach
Due to the acidic content of both drinks there doesn’t appear to be any benefit over ACV or lemon water on an empty stomach.
There are some still individuals who believe that drinking ACV or lemon water first thing in the morning without eating anything can aid in digestion and enhance energy levels. However, these claims currently lack sufficient scientific evidence, and further research must be conducted to validate them.
On the flip side, consuming acidic beverages such as lemon water or ACV on an empty stomach can heighten the chances of tooth enamel erosion and stomach problems. This is because without food, these acidic drinks can come into direct contact with the stomach lining, which may cause irritation, inflammation or ulcers for certain individuals.
Furthermore, it’s important to keep in mind that everybody’s body responds differently to various foods and drinks. What may help one person may not necessarily have the same effect on another. If you’re contemplating drinking ACV or lemon water on an empty stomach, it’s recommended to start with a small amount and slowly increase dosage over time to monitor its effects on your body. Additionally, it’s crucial to consult with a healthcare professional before implementing any significant modifications to your diet or daily routine, particularly if you have any underlying health conditions.
Free Radicals: Comparing Lemon Water vs. Apple Cider Vinegar(s) ability to fight free radicals.
ACV and lemon water both contain antioxidants that can fight free radicals, but the quantity and types of antioxidants they offer do differ.
ACV includes polyphenols, a type of antioxidant with potential health benefits, such as lowering the risk of chronic diseases, including heart disease. However, the quantity of polyphenols ACV contains may vary based on the brand, age and production method.
Lemons are a rich source of vitamin C, which is an influential antioxidant that can defend cells from oxidative stress and inflammation. Vitamin C is also responsible for wound healing, collagen synthesis, and immune function.
While both ACV and lemon water may provide some antioxidant benefits, their effectiveness in this area will depend on various factors, including the type of antioxidant, concentration, and bioavailability.
Kidney Stones: Comparing Lemon Water vs. Apple Cider Vinegar(s) ability to fight kidney stones
The scientific evidence on the effectiveness of both apple cider vinegar (ACV) and lemon water in preventing or treating kidney stones is fairly limited. Some animal and in vitro studies suggest that citric acid found in lemons and lemon juice may increase urine volume and urinary citrate levels, reducing the concentration of stone-forming substances in urine. However, further research is required to confirm these findings in humans.
Some initial research also indicates that ACV’s acetic acid content may help dissolve kidney stones. However, there is currently isn’t enough evidence to support using ACV as a treatment for kidney stones.
It’s important to note that kidney stones are a complicated ailment with various causes, and treatment and prevention plans should be customizable based on individual requirements and medical history. If you have concerns about kidney stones or any other health issue, it’s important to discuss them with a healthcare professional for tailored advice.
Nutritional Composition: Comparing the Nutritional Benefit of both Apple Cider Vinegar and Lemon Water
| Nutrient | Apple Cider Vinegar (1 tbsp or 15 mL) | Lemon Juice (1 medium lemon or 58 g) |
| Calories | 3 | 17 |
| Carbohydrates | Negligible | 5 g |
| Fiber | Negligible | 1.5 g |
| Sugar | Negligible | 1 g |
| Vitamin C | Negligible | 30.7 mg |
| Vitamin B6 | Negligible | 0.1 mg |
| Potassium | Negligible | 80.8 mg |
| Folate | Negligible | 5.5 mcg |
| Acetic Acid | About 5-6% of the total volume | Negligible |
| Other Organic Acids | Yes | Negligible |
| Antioxidants | Polyphenols, beneficial bacteria | Citric acid, flavonoids |
Negative Side Effects: Comparing the Negative Side Effects of Apple Cider Vinegar and Lemon Water
- Tooth enamel erosion can occur over time with frequent consumption of both ACV and lemon water due to their acidic nature. However, lemon juice has a higher potential for erosion on the enamel of your teeth as it is more acidic than ACV. Digestive discomfort such as bloating, gas, or acid reflux can be caused by both drinks, but studies suggest that ACV is more likely to cause these side effects.
- Digestive discomfort such as bloating, gas, or acid reflux can be caused by both drinks, but studies suggest that ACV is more likely to cause these side effects.
- Medication interactions may occur differently with ACV and lemon juice, as ACV can interfere with the absorption of antibiotics and diuretics, while lemon juice may interact with blood thinners and cholesterol-lowering drugs.
- Skin irritation can be caused by undiluted or excessive use of ACV and lemon juice, although ACV is generally more likely to cause irritation due to its lower pH.
- Consuming large amounts of ACV may lead to low potassium levels in the body, which is potentially dangerous for those with certain health conditions, but moderate consumption of ACV or lemon water is generally not a concern.
Consuming: Comparing how to consume Apple Cider Vinegar and Lemon Water
Apple cider vinegar and lemon water can both be a part of a healthy diet. It is important to think about how you consume them but the most popular way is to simply add it to a large glass of water.
Both can be used in salad dressings, marinades, tea’s and added too recipes for sautéed vegetables. You can use them to pickle vegetables as well or even make a smoothie.
The best way to consume it is truly the way you enjoy it the most. Another great way I use lemon is in warm water in the morning or smoothies. I love using apple cider vinegar in an easy cucumber dressing with salt, pepper and a tiny bit of raw honey.
Easy Lemon Water Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 medium-sized lemon or 1 TBS fresh lemon juice
- 1-2 cups of water (depending on your preference)
Instructions:
- Cut the lemon in half and squeeze the juice into a glass or pitcher.
- Add water to the lemon juice and stir well.
- You can drink the lemon water immediately, or let it sit for a few minutes to infuse the water with lemon flavor.
Notes: Some variations you can try include adding a pinch of salt or a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup to enhance the flavor. You can also experiment with adding other ingredients like herbs (such as mint or basil), spices (like ginger or turmeric), or fruits (such as strawberries or cucumbers) to customize the taste and nutritional benefits of your lemon water.
You can also try warm lemon water but of course test the temperature and add the lemon juice after heating.
Easy Apple Cider Vinegar Drink Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar
- 8-12 ounces of water
- 1-2 teaspoons raw honey or maple syrup (optional)
Instructions:
- Pour 8-12 ounces of water into a glass.
- Add 1-2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar to the water and stir to combine.
- If desired, add 1-2 teaspoons of honey or maple syrup to sweeten the drink.
- Drink the apple cider vinegar water before meals or as a daily health tonic.
You can also customize this recipe by adding other ingredients such as ginger, turmeric, or lemon juice for added flavor and health benefits.
Notes: You can use cold water or warm water if you want.
Let me know what way you plan on using lemon water and apple cider vinegar! For me I use them both regularly in different ways. I make sure that I mix up the ways in which I consume them to mitigate some of the negative effects such as consumption on an empty stomach and tooth enamel erosion.
Looking for other comparisons, check this article out!
Peer reviewed scientific studies referenced to gather the factual information for this article.
- Effects of apple cider vinegar supplementation on lipid profiles and oxidative stress biomarkers in high-fat-fed rats. (https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jff.2015.01.039) Journal of functional foods
- Apple cider vinegar modulates serum lipid profile, erythrocyte, kidney, and liver membrane oxidative stress in ovariectomized mice fed high cholesterol. (https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jff.2018.04.019)
- Apple cider vinegar attenuates lipid profile in normal and diabetic rats. (https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jff.2015.11.004)
- Apple cider vinegar attenuates oxidative stress and liver damage in high cholesterol-fed rats. (https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jff.2017.09.007)
- Ferraro, P. M., Taylor, E. N., Gambaro, G., & Curhan, G. C. (2016). Soda and other beverages and the risk of kidney stones. Clinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology, 11(10), 1624-1632. (https://doi: 10.2215/CJN.01380216)
- Haleblian, G. E., Leitao, V. A., Pierre, S. A., Robinson, M. R., & Albala, D. M. (2009). Evaluation of citrus fruit-derived flavonoids as potential inhibitors of phosphodiesterase-4D. Journal of Endourology, 23(4), 555-560. (https://doi: 10.1089/end.2008.0436)
- Park, S., & Pearle, M. S. (2008). Pathophysiology and management of calcium stones. Urologic Clinics of North America, 35(3), 393-406. (https://doi: 10.1016/j.ucl.2008.04.004)
- Rodrigo, L., & Gil, F. (2018). How do we diagnose and treat uric acid stones? International Urology and Nephrology, 50(3), 439-446. (https://doi: 10.1007/s11255-017-1738-7)
- Shavit, L., Ferraro, P. M., & Gambaro, G. (2015). Potassium citrate and kidney stone recurrence in children. Journal of Urology, 193(4), 1419-1425. (https://doi: 10.1016/j.juro.2014.10.121)
- Wong, J. M., Ebbeling, C. B., Robinson, L., Feldman, H. A., & Ludwig, D. S. (2019). Effects of Advice to Drink 8 Cups of Water per Day in Adolescents With Overweight or Obesity: A Randomized Clinical Trial. JAMA Pediatrics, 173(5), 439–446. https://doi.org/10.1001/jamapediatrics.2019.0074
- Koufman, J. A., Johnston, N., Wei, Z., & Fennerty, M. B. (2012). Potential benefits of pH 8.8 alkaline drinking water as an adjunct in the treatment of reflux disease. Annals of Otology, Rhinology & Laryngology, 121(7), 431-434. https://doi.org/10.1177/000348941212100702
- Haidari, F., Shahi, M. M., Zarei, M., Rafieian-Kopaei, M., & Keshavarz, S. A. (2015). Antioxidant activity and hepatoprotective potential of lemon (Citrus limonum) peel extract in rats treated with lipopolysaccharide. Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, 63(1), 238-243. https://doi.org/10.1021/jf505059t