The secret to looking younger than your actual age could be as simple as adding one thing to your usual drink
A doctor says drinking a glass of water with a slice of fruit in it every day could help trick people into thinking you are younger than you actually are. Saurabh Sethi, a gastroenterologist who graduated from Harvard University, said that drinking lemon water daily might help wipe away signs of ageing.
He shared his experience and knowledge with his 505,000 followers on TikTok (@doctorsethimd). He previously issued an urgent warning to people using plastic water bottles and heating up leftovers in takeaway containers, as the material is showing up in our brains, reports What’s The Jam.
Now, the 42-year-old has shared what happens to the body if lemon water is consumed for 30 days straight. He suggests that it could be the secret to looking younger.
In the clip, he said: “Lemons are packed with 30 different beneficial plant compounds. Freshly squeezed lemon juice is the best, as it has not gone through pasteurisation so it retains more nutrients.”
Dr Sethi explains that the natural acidity can help the body absorb minerals more efficiently, especially iron. He added: “They are also a great source of vitamin C, which supports collagen production, and is essential for healthy skin, joints and connective tissue.”
Although consuming lemon water won’t provide a miraculous source of youth, it can aid in achieving a healthier and more glowing complexion, possibly giving you a more youthful appearance. Lemon water may assist in collagen production, minimise free radical damage, and support liver function, all of which can influence skin health.
Some experts suggest that lemon water may help cleanse the liver, which plays a role in overall skin health and detoxification. By promoting healthy liver function, the body can better eliminate toxins that might contribute to skin problems, according to the Chennai Liver Foundation.
The doctor says it is simple to add lemon into your diet – simply squeeze a full lemon into a glass of water daily and enjoy. Grabbing a fresh lemon doesn’t have to be expensive either, Aldi sells ‘wonky’ versions of the fruit in a 79p pack of four, which works out at just under 20p per lemon.
Is lemon safe for everyone to consume?
Lemon is generally safe for most people to consume in moderate amounts. However, some might experience negative effects such as allergies. Dr Sethi included a warning in his video for people with acid reflux. He said: “Lemon water might actually make your symptoms worse because it is an acid so best to avoid having it daily, or only use a small amount.”
The high acidity of lemons can also wear away tooth enamel over time, especially with frequent or large consumption, which can lead to sensitivity and damage. If you have any concerns about drinking lemon water, especially if you have existing health conditions, consult a doctor.