Coffee with lemon for weight loss (Science revealed)
Wondering how to drink coffee with lemon to lose weight? This guide has all of the info you need to make the switch!
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Coffee is the morning’s call, the kick of the noon, and the evening peace. It is one of the most consumed beverages in the world.
Most of us consume coffee for the sheer burst of energy it gives. Electric!
However, recently, the world is going gaga behind its many variations. The coffee with a lemony twist is one such example.
The world believes that coffee with lemon leads to leanness and weight loss. How truthful is it at its core? And if it is, what is the right way to take it?
Let’s understand what it does, how it works, and the science behind it.
Let’s go brewing it out.
Coffee with Lemon – The Science Behind
Both coffee and lemon are celebrities around the world for their plentiful benefits. Talk of antioxidants; they have it. Talk of vitamins; they have it. And the kick and freshness that both these give? Immeasurable.
Now, how does this combo lead to weight loss?
Coffee and metabolism
Metabolism is our bodies’ ability to convert food into energy. The better this ability is, the healthier we stay and the leaner we leap. This is because high metabolism leads to better calorie burn. This prevents fat from accumulating under our skin.
Coffee affects metabolism. How?
When we consume coffee, caffeine (a bitter alkaloid present in coffee) stimulates the central nervous system (CNS) and pushes a chain of changes. The most common changes come in the form of enhanced mood, energy, and alertness. [1]
When the CNS is stimulated to be alert and focused, it increases our heartbeat, blood flow, and rate of calorie burning. Why? Because we have evolved like this. It is a fight-or-flight response.
Apart from its effect on CNS, coffee works in other ways too. We’ll discuss these later.
But what about lemon? How does it help in weight loss?
Does lemon lead to weight loss?
Lemon contains vitamin C in great amounts.
Vitamin C, alike coffee, leads to an enhanced metabolic state. Furthermore, it is known to synthesize carnitine. This compound is crucial for utilizing fat as an energy source when we work out. [2][3][4]
One study showed a direct relation between lemon polyphenols and their impact on obesity. The study concluded that lemon polyphenols suppressed body weight gain, reduced fat accumulation, and improved insulin resistance. [5]
And now, let’s talk about the coffee with lemon combo, if it works or not.
Coffee with lemon for weight loss – does it work?
When speaking of them individually, both these beverages are quite capable of firing off the fat and providing one a leaner shape.
When taken together, they support each other and their impact on weight loss gets magnified.
Coffee, apart from enhancing metabolism and the rate of burning calories, also boosts adrenaline. This hormone facilitates exercise and alertness. Also, coffee contains chlorogenic acid. This acid may reduce the absorption of carbohydrates and regulate blood sugar levels. The result? Fantastic fat loss. [6]
Lemon’s vitamin C aids in fat oxidation during this process maximises the fat-burning potential. Also, it becomes a super refreshing drink.
As we see, this duo is wonderfully capable of enhancing weight loss. This drink becomes a potent antioxidant-rich elixir. However, no scientific research has been done yet to prove the potency of this combo.
But for weight loss to happen, one must take them in the right way.
How to take coffee with lemon for weight loss?
To get the max out of your lemony coffee, you must take it in the right way and amount. Here is a brief on your cup –
- Always brew fresh coffee – Under the scarcity of time, most of us go for instant coffee. Please don’t do it. Coffee offers its maximum benefits when brewed freshly. Go for ground coffee. The benefit of this is that you may choose your own roast level, grind size, and quality. What more fascinating could a thing be?
- Choose high-quality beans – Coffee comes in varieties. Once you dive into this brown see, you’ll start noticing it. High-quality beans grown in the right conditions not only taste brilliant but they offer max benefits as well.
- Don’t squeeze your lemon in boiling coffee – Take a fresh lemon and squeeze it only when the temperature comes to a drinkable limit. This will prevent your enamel from its acidic harm.
- Add flavours as you like – Some of you might smack your tongue here and there. Coffee is perfect for this. Try adding cinnamon, orange zest, etc. These things will offer you their own set of benefits too.
- Cherish – Sip by sip.
Perfect right? Maybe not until you know the side effects and precautions to take while consuming it.
Coffee and Lemon – Precautions and Side Effects
You might not want the benefits of your coffee with lemon to be surpassed by their side effects. The wisdom lies in knowing how to drink and when to drink.
The right time to drink coffee – Yes! There is a right time to drink coffee. Because coffee leads to alertness, never drink it in the evening. Stop consuming it at least 5 hours before your bedtime. Otherwise, you’ll not get your dose of deep sleep.
Also, studies show that having a cup of coffee just after you wake up is pointless and counterproductive. It is because our bodies naturally elevate cortisol levels. Just wait for an hour or two before you brew. [7]
Also, coffee should be avoided right after a meal. Experts suggest that it slows down the digestion and reduces the iron absorption rate. [8]
Right limit to drink coffee – Caffeine works when in limit. Drinking over the limit can start working negatively on your body.
FDA suggests not consuming more than 400 mg of caffeine per day [9]
To put it with clarity, a normal cup of freshly brewed coffee contains around 75-100mg of caffeine.
Taking it more than this will make you dependent on it. You’ll have to drink more and more of it to get the same old kick. This is called caffeine tolerance. The right way to deal with it is to give yourself a few caffeine-free days in between your normal consumption days.
Coffee and dental health – Both coffee and lemon contain acid. This acid may erode your enamel. Try not to drink them too hot. Also, as soon as you are done drinking, rinse your mouth with water.
Gastrointestinal sensitivity – Some people might find coffee to be a nuisance to their stomachs. If you face any discomfort, consult a doctor.
Interaction with other medications – Coffee is a diuretic, which means that it leads to blood thinning and more urination. If you are taking some medicines, consult your doctor for this.
Focus on diet – Surely, coffee with lemon is a good weight loss recipe. However, you should not depend on it alone. Try having a diverse diet with lots of fruits, vegetables, nuts, and protein.
Conclusion
Coffee is cherished around the world for the sort of kick and energy it gives. But recently, coffee has been going through many health trends. Coffee with lemon is one such combination that is being lauded around for its weight-loss properties.
Both coffee and lemon have been well-studied and proven for their impact on weight loss. Where caffeine enhances metabolism and leads to more calorie burn, vitamin C present in lemon synthesizes carnitine, a compound that uses fat as an energy source. Drinking both coffee and lemon together can have a multiplier effect on weight loss.
However, while taking these together, ensure you do not drink them too hot. Also, drink under limits and avoid at least 5 hours before bedtime.
Remember, when life gives you lemons, squeeze them into your coffee for a wonderful weight loss journey.
FAQs
Does adding lemon juice to coffee contribute to weight loss?
The combination of lemon juice and coffee can aid in weight loss. However, weight loss is a complex process influenced by various factors such as diet, exercise, and overall lifestyle.
It’s essential to maintain a balanced and healthy diet while considering lemon-infused coffee as just one element of your overall weight management strategy.
How to Lose Weight Faster?
Losing weight faster involves a combination of healthy lifestyle choices. Consider the following tips:
• Adopt a balanced diet with a focus on whole foods.
• Consult with a healthcare professional or a registered dietitian for personalized advice.
• Engage in regular physical activity, including both cardiovascular exercises and strength training.
• Get sufficient sleep as inadequate sleep may hinder weight loss efforts.
• Manage stress through relaxation techniques such as meditation or yoga.
• Remember, sustainable weight loss is a gradual process that requires patience and consistency.
• Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day.
Does Lemon Help in Weight Loss?
Lemon is often praised for its potential health benefits, including being a good source of vitamin C and antioxidants. The compounds in lemons may help with weight loss, by promoting feelings of fullness or supporting metabolism.
However, this does not mean, that we can replace a healthy diet and lifestyle with lemon for weight loss. Incorporating lemon into a balanced diet as part of an overall healthy lifestyle may contribute to your well-being, but it’s crucial to approach weight loss holistically.
Does Coffee Reduce Weight?
Coffee contains caffeine, which is known to have a mild stimulating effect on metabolism. This can lead to a temporary increase in calorie burning.
Additionally, caffeine may help enhance physical performance, potentially supporting weight loss efforts. However, relying solely on coffee for weight reduction is not recommended.
To achieve meaningful and sustainable weight loss, it’s crucial to combine a well-balanced diet with regular exercise and other healthy lifestyle practices. Excessive coffee consumption may have adverse effects, so it is important to be mindful of the consumption.
