Is drinking alcohol with lemon good or bad?

Answered by Matthew Yawn

Drinking with lemon can have both positive and negative effects on the body. Let's explore the different aspects.

1. Positive effects:
– Assimilation of alcohol: Lemon, with its organic acids, can help in the assimilation of alcohol in the body. When consumed before the alcohol is absorbed into the bloodstream, the acids in lemon can aid in breaking down the alcohol molecules, preventing it from causing harm.
– Hangover remedy: Lemon or its is a popular home remedy for hangovers. It is believed that the citric acid in lemon helps in detoxifying the body and alleviating symptoms like nausea and headache. Many people swear by drinking lemon or adding lemon juice to their alcoholic beverages to reduce the severity of hangovers.

2. Negative effects:
– Dental health: The acidity of lemon can be detrimental to dental health when consumed in excess. The citric acid can erode tooth enamel, leading to tooth sensitivity and cavities. It is important to drink alcohol with lemon in moderation and rinse your mouth with water afterward to minimize the potential damage to your teeth.
– Increased alcohol consumption: Adding lemon to alcoholic beverages may make them more appealing and easier to consume. This can lead to an increased intake of alcohol, which can have negative effects on the body, including liver damage, impaired judgment, and increased risk of accidents or alcohol-related diseases. It is crucial to drink alcohol responsibly and in moderation, regardless of whether lemon is added or not.

Personal experience: As a sommelier and brewer, I have often encountered customers who enjoy adding lemon to their alcoholic beverages. Some enjoy the refreshing taste it brings, while others believe it helps them handle the alcohol better. However, it is important to note that personal experiences can vary, and what works for one person may not work for another.

Drinking alcohol with lemon can have both positive and negative effects. While lemon can aid in the assimilation of alcohol and provide relief from hangovers, the acidity of lemon can be harmful to dental health, and excessive alcohol consumption should be avoided. It is always recommended to drink alcohol responsibly and in moderation, whether or not lemon is added.