Introducing the 30 day Lemon Water Detox Challenge – The easiest detox you’ll ever do.
Early in my nutrition and training career, I learned that lemon water is one of the best drinks for weight loss and health. That very same day I bought a big bag of lemons and have been drinking lemon water ever since.
Lemon water not only quenches thirst better than any other beverage, but it also nourishes the body with vitamins, minerals and trace elements, that are essential for health and metabolic function.
This is why celebrities drink it daily to help them look and feel their best…
That’s also why I recommend it to my clients, mention it in my programs, and talk about it on social media.
Because when something SO easy works SO well, you can’t stop talking about it…
The Lemon Water Detox
I created my lemon water challenge to help my clients get the most benefits quickly.
That’s why I’m challenging you to start drinking lemon water daily, too.
Those who’ve followed my challenge have reported noticeable results including:
- Reduced bloating
- Reduced inflammation, aches, and pains
- Saw brighter, clearer skin
- Better mood
- Saw digestive issues improve
- Didn’t feel as sore after exercise
I find that when people know how they’ll benefit, it makes it easier for them to stick with it.
So before I get into the Challenge details, I’ll explain how lemon water is going to help you lose weight and feel great.
How Lemon Water Helps you Detox, Get Fit, and Healthy
Here are 6 ways lemon water can help weight loss and health.
Lemon Water Helps Detox the Liver
The liver metabolizes fat and carbs and helps remove toxins from the body. But your liver can’t burn fat and carbs effectively when it’s overly loaded with toxins. The liver uses enzymes to help it break down toxic substances to eliminate them.
The liver produces more enzymes from lemon water than from any other food. Lemon juice can help stimulate the liver to release toxins, making it easier to metabolize fat and carbs. For more tips on how to detox your liver, check out this article I wrote for Consumer Health Digest.
Lemon Water Helps you Hydrate Better
Lemons contain a good amount of electrolytes such as potassium, calcium, and magnesium. By adding lemon to the water you drink during and after your workouts, you’ll hydrate better, plus you’ll get a nutritional boost of essential nutrients.
Lemon Water helps Stop Sugar Cravings
One of the best ways to kill a sugar craving is to counteract it with a sour taste. Lemon juice is borderline intolerably sour on its own. Diluting it in water makes an unsweetened “lemonade” that can help reduce sugar cravings quickly. Learn more about how to stop sugar and carb cravings here.
Lemon Water Can Boost Energy
Lemon with water can be considered the best natural energy booster. When we wake up in the morning, our bodily tissues are dehydrated and are in need of water to push out toxins and rejuvenate the cells. That’s why it’s a key ingredient in my Natural Energy Drink recipe.
Lemon Water Helps you Recover Faster After Exercise
Water is alkalizing and can help dilute uric acid, the built-up acid that can cause joint pain. It also helps dilute the lactic acid in your muscles post-workout, so you can recover faster after exercise. Lemon water can also help reduce inflammation and give you relief from aches and pains.
Lemon Water Helps you Digest Better
Water alone can help relieve constipation. But lemon juice contains citric acid. This acid interacts with other digestive enzymes and acids within your digestive system, which can help improve digestion and regulate bowel movements. With all of that waste flowing you faster, you’ll be able to absorb nutrients better, too.
Ready to soak up these amazing benefits and show your liver some love?
30 Day Lemon Water Detox Challenge Instructions
- Drink at least one glass of lemon water every day, for 30 days. Bonus points if you drink more than 1 glass. Double bonus points if you drink nothing but lemon water for the full 30 days.
- Add 2 teaspoons to 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice into 8 oz of water. Tip: Half a fresh lemon at home, then quarter the halves, to get your lemon wedges. 1 to 2 wedges will do for each glass of water.
- I recommend using filtered water. Temperature doesn’t matter. Bonus if you drink lemon water made with room temperature water first thing in the morning, 30 minutes before you eat or drink anything.
- TIP:: It’s easy to rock the lemon water challenge at restaurants! Ask for extra lemon and squeeze the wedges into your water.
Are you going to rock this challenge? Leave me a comment and let me know.
Share the Lemon Water Challenge with others so they can to do it with you, too.
If you’ve done this challenge, please inspire others by sharing your results in the comments.
Big Love
Your Coach and Biggest Cheerleader
xxoo
**Originally posted December 7th, 2017**
Sources::
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30087544
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/8373143
https://www.consumerhealthdigest.com/colon-health-center/liver-detox-effective-steps
Pin this post to Pinterest so you’ll have it forever.
I’m in. I already have lemons.
Thank you Christina – I am so addicted to sugar an carbs. You increased my faith to know that I can get off my diabetic meds and get healthier. I have been so discouraged because I could not stop eating junk. I plan to start the lemon water today, and pick up some string beans as well. I hope I can stay on track.
I feel like I can do this and get the weight off. I have managed to get my A1C down. God bless you!
You’re so welcome! If you need help with cravings make sure you check out this post:: https://www.christinacarlyle.com/how-to-stop-sugar-cravings/
Christina,
I am going to start the lemon water daily but actually love limes. Do limes work as well or does it need to be lemons?
Lemons are recommended
Why do i need to keep drinking lemon water, like its not quenching my thirst? As soon as i have some i need some more. Its like it makes me thirsty
That’s not normal… it’s also indicative of a mineral imbalance, electrolyte imbalance, or more serious underlying health conditions. Drinking more (even though you’re adequately hydrated) can also cause serious health issues/death if you over-drink to the point of diluting your body’s own electrolytes. If I were you I’d see a doctor. But if you think you’re ok I’d suggest a QUALITY multivitamin. Specifically this one, https://christinacarlyle.metagenics.com/phytomulti
I am as soon as I finish my first two lemons. I always read about it with lemon water and I also love lemons but never just lemon water. But I do have my blood clot disorder to where I actually have to be more forced to eat healthier now where my blood is just not flowing and my cholesterol is high due to genes as to what my doctor says and my sugars are normal so I will try this. I know I need to do something. I agree with this post. Good job!! It is healthy. It is natural. People should be aware of it and just try it. It’s better than really bad creamer and other things as to why they get migraines. I know I love cookies. But we all want to feel good. This will help. Thank you!
you’re welcome
Hi Christina!. I find your article really helpful and an interesting read. (When do I get to claim my bonus points?.😁).
I am on a journey to living a health lifestyle, loosing fat and building glute and thigh muscles. I look forward to receiving more of such interesting reads.
Awesome!! Welcome Anita. Make sure you sign up for my free Kickstarter Workout plan below. That’ll add you to my VIP list and I’ll email you 3 new trainings every Thursday. xo
I love this article and have tried lemon water but recently I’ve noticed major stomach pains and had to stop. but prior to that I never felt better!! All the benefits you mentioned I experienced. Do you know what could have been the cause of my stomach cramps after drinking lemon water?
Hi! I’m not sure what could have caused your stomach pains or if it could have been caused by lemon water. Did the pain start when you started drinking it and end after you stopped? If so, avoid this challenge. If not, it could be caused by something else. Rotating foods can help you pinpoint the root cause of your stomach pain. I hope you feel better. xo
Thanks for answering. It started after but I am trying it again after eliminating it. I love your blog. Thanks for your great advice
I’ve drank warm lemon water in the morning for years combined with a moderate workout. Friends and family complimented me on my look. Recently, during pre-menapause and a new relationship I dont have the energy to workout or the motivation to drink water. Any tips for a woman that has lost her way.
Hi! Yes! My Reset Cleanse would be perfect for you. You can lose up to 10 pounds in a week, too.
Here’s the link to learn more about it & get started: https://www.christinacarlyle.com/reset-cleanse/
You may also enjoy my Metabolic Quiz & Training about how food affects you. Here’s a link to learn more about that: https://www.christinacarlyle.com/weight-loss-training/
Started 2 days ago and feel better already
Awesome!! Thanks so much for your testimony! xo
@Victoriya your stomach pain is probably caused by stomach acid which is caused by lemon acidity. Try to google acid reflux
Doing it. Starting today
Awesome!! xo
Today I am starting the lemon water challenge I have a lemon tree in my backyard I will let you know how it went in 30 days!! I will definitely share this challenge with family and friends?
Awesome, Vanessa! I can’t wait to hear how it goes. xo CC
Do you have precautions for a 30 day lemon water cleanse? Have you personally done this?
Thanks
I drink lemon water all the time. No precautions.
Lemon water is great! You really do see results with your skin & less sugar cravings. Thank you so much for reminding me☺???
Can you use pre-squeezed lemon juice from a bottle or does it have to be fresh lemon juice?
Fresh please 🙂
Can you use limes instead of lemons 🍋? Thx
I recommend lemons for a reason…
This was really interesting 🙂 I also looked up a few things about the effect of fake sugar on the liver so, hmm, need to cut down there as much as possible 🙂 I’ve been eating a lot of peppermint lozenges because I quit nicotine. If ur interested: http://www.kolozzeum.com/forum/showthread.php?t=225779
Thankyou for this blogg by the way, it is always inspiring 🙂 xo Marya Pallin
I drink lemon water quite frequently but will be more mindful now of how much I’m drinking.
Awesome!! It helped me be more aware of my intake, too. : )
Lemon does contain citrus. I have noticed sometimes it burns more when having a bowel movement.
Yesssss I have OFFICIALLY STARTED ? day 1 : July 9 , 2018 I will keep it up for 30 days
I can do this! Will be hitting up the farmers market to get a WHOLE BUNCH of lemons. I will start on Sunday morning!
Woo! I’m so happy to hear you’re giving this a try. It’s super easy. Keep us posted on your progress. xoxo CC
I did this challenge and drank lemon water nonstop for 4 weeks. I’ve noticed a huge difference in my skin and bloating! I lost 4 pounds too. Thanks for being a great coach and cheerleader Christina! I love your stuff!! It always works wonders for me.
Awwwwww yay!! Thanks so much Kristie. I’m so happy to have you in my fit family 🙂 xxoo
I have been drinking lemon water for the past 5 years 8 glasses usually continuously all day. The only thing it has done for me is it tastes good better than drinking plain water. However, your statement of reducing bloating and skin feeling better and looking better, etc. Is totally BS.
Hi Barbara! Good point! Thanks for the opportunity to clarify!
For this ‘mini-detox’ challenge, the lemon water helps the liver purge toxins. The lemon juice helps to alkalize and boost vitamin C (anti-oxidant) intake. The lemon water isn’t detoxing… the vitamin C & other nutrients in the juice is helping your cells purge toxins and helping the liver do its 500+ functions better.
But, if you’re exposed to other things that impair liver function and affect gut health and hormones or consumables (like processed foods, booze, meds) that affect gut health and hormones and that are toxin-heavy… yeah this isn’t going to ‘cure you’ since the benefits are being undone with other things. There are literally dozens of things that can affect your skin and cause bloat… so drinking lemon water alone isn’t going to help much if you’re still exposed to things that contribute to bloat and breakouts.
A true detox boosts your liver’s natural excretory functions and helps flush out more toxins and when that happens sometimes the skin will breakout… In that case, breaking out it’s a ‘good’ thing because it means the detox is working. It also indicates the need for a lot of extra liver support. But, bloat is trickier. That could be caused by a TON of things… For example, you can eat and exercise perfectly, drink lemon water, and have a liver that’s 100% healthy… but if you’re stressed you can get bloated.
Hormones, food, sleep, elimination habits, microbiome imbalance, coping skills/mindset, inflammation, allergies, carb intake, sodium intake, alcohol consumption, and many many other factors can contribute to bloating.
If you’re bloated all the time that’s a big red flag… because you’re not supposed to be. And if you have something bigger going on… lemon water can help but won’t cause much of a difference unless the root cause of your symptoms is addressed.
I’d recommend my Reset Cleanse. It helps resolve root causes and can help resolve inflammatory digestive issues and clear up your skin in 7 days. You can also lose up to 10 pounds in 7 days.
https://www.christinacarlyle.com/programs/ If you’re still bloated after that, go seek medical attention.
Good Evening,
Is this cleanse suppose to be for 30 days strictly lemon water?
Hi! Have lemon juice for 30 days… not necessarily nothing else BUT it is a good idea to avoid consuming toxins during a detox. Skipping alcohol, bottled drinks, juices, coffee, processed teas, etc. is ideal.
Thanks for the reminder . I used to drink
Lemon water and stopped for a while now, but will definitely restart this drink.
Awesome 🙂
Christina, i always like reading your blogs! They keep me inspired when I feel down for not seeing the results I want. I will do this lemon challenge for 30 days but, what is the best meal plan that we should follow while doing this?
That you Alma. I always recommend my meal plans. They work! I have 2 different kinds at the link below. My program style quiz also on this link will help you choose the plan that’s perfect for you and your goals. https://www.christinacarlyle.com/programs
Can I leave the lemon wedge in my glass and keep refilling it?
You can… but that would dilute the juice. And if they’re not organic lemons the pesticides and residues from the out shell will end up in your water. It’s best to use fresh juice every time and only squeeze the juice into the water… not throw the wedge into the water. Make sense?
Got it! Thank you!
Ive started drinking lemon with a tea spoon of honey with boiled water for my cold .not only is it relieving my cold but im not as bloated so it must do something for your health .plus ive only done it for 3 days so im going to drink it every day now.
I have pcos and I want to do the lemon water without food . Can I
You don’t have to eat when you drink 🙂
Hey Christina,
Does this affect the enamel on your teeth ?
Nope. The water dilutes the lemon juice and you’re swallowing it quickly so it shouldn’t have any negative impact on your teeth… Letting pure lemon juice sit on your teeth would be a different story. BUT if you have an pre-existing enamel issue and/or your dentist has told you not to consume lemon juice at all… I’d check with them first before starting the challenge to be safe. CC
I have read to boil water, let cool slightly then add halved lemons and let soak. That a lot of the nutrients are in the rind and pulp. You say to just squeeze the juice into the water and not to drop in the wedge. It’s so confusing, do this, don’t do that. Then conflicting information. Which is best?
I’d never boil lemons. Heating any produce kills the nutrients, which are in the pulp. Lemons (if not organic) shouldn’t be boiled because you’ll be drinking toxins from the rind. That’s why the rind shouldn’t be in the liquid, too. But boiling is for making citrus potpourri. Not a detox. Warm water is ok. Crazy hot? No.
Hi Christina!!
I really enjoyed reading your information on Pinterest!! For almost 3 months, I’m up to 80-100 ozs of filtered water!!????
I accept your Lemon Water Challenge!! I will be getting a big bag of lemons today!!????
Also, I’ll definitely share with my family & friends so we can do it together!!
Thanks so much for your research, tips & advice in your article!! Hope you have a fantastic day!! God Bless!!????????
Awwww thank you Rhonda! You just made my day <3 Thank you for your kind words and sharing this with family and friends. I can't wait to hear about your results on the Challenge. xo CC
Can you use bottled lemon juice?
Hi! You can but it’s not ideal because it’s not real lemon juice and doesn’t have the nutrients needed to get benefits. For the best results, fresh lemon juice is what’s recommended. xo CC
I’ve been doing this for 3 weeks and really feel amazing. Thanks Christina! You’re the best!!
I have been drinking lemon water but now feel like I have acid reflux. Could the lemon water be the cause??
Yep! That’s a sign that your stomach acid is low. If so, I’d suggest HCL tabs… antiacids will make it worse. (lemon isn’t acidic… it’s alkaline in the body!)
I did your challenge and got so many benefits. I feel a LOT better! My energy is up and my skin is glowing. I’m going to keep drinking lemon water til the day I die. ha! Thanks for sharing.
Thank you for your feedback xoxo
Could I make a full gallon pitcher of lemon water and store in the refrigerator? Or do you recommend making by glass?.
Yes 🙂 That’s ok xo CC
Wife drinks lemon water so I tried
I love it
I drink 6-9 glasses a day
Stopped the sugary soda
Luv the lemon
Awesome! 🙂
I don’t have a comment but a question does it make difference when to drink lemon water cause l do after supper and l add honey will that help me?
Time of day doesn’t matter but it’s best to have it consistently throughout the day. I also recommend skipping the honey.
HELLO, I AM 66 YRS OLD, MARRIED 50 YRS, HAVE 17 GRANDKIDS, AND TAKE CARE OF MY HUSBAN17D 100%. BUT I HAVE GAINED ALOT OF WEIGHT IN THE LAST 5 MONTHS. I AM 5’1 AND NOW WEIGH 180 AS OF YESTERDAY, (april 17, 2022) PLEASE HELP ME. I WANT TO DO ALL OF THE LEMON DIETS YOU HAVE AVAILABLE. LEMON CUCUMBER ETC. PLEAE HELP ME. I NEED TO LOSE 55 – 60 LBS.
This detox isn’t going to do much in terms of weight loss. I’d recommend a meal plan and/or workouts. Here’s a link to a quiz to find the program that’s perfect for you. https://www.christinacarlyle.com/program-quiz/
So excited to try this ! I’m a little confused all the photos have the whole lemon slices/ wedges left in the water but then I saw in a comment reply you said to squeeze out the juice- should I put the whole wedge/slice in my water bottle and leave it throughout the day or should I squeeze the wedge juice into my water bottle? I hope this question makes sense… thank you 🙂
Organic lemons are fine in water. Inorganic lemons have chemicals on the rind. Squeeze the lemon into your water if your lemons aren’t organic.