6 Major Effects of Eating Too Many Lemons on Your Body

Lemon is an evergreen citrus fruit of the lemon tree. They are used in the form of juice, pulp, pickles, and as well as a cleansing agent. Lemons provide many health and beauty benefits as they are rich in vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, phytonutrients, and dietary fibers, etc. However, there are some side effects of eating too many lemons.

# Can Give Rise To Tooth Erosion

Vitamin C in lemons protects against scurvy and reduces the risk of bleeding and swollen gums. However, lemons are acidic and in excessive quantity, citric acid in lemon may harm the enamel of the teeth and give rise to teeth erosion.

The antimicrobial properties of lemons protect our teeth and gums from bacterias, viruses, and other infections, and help in maintaining oral health. But, tooth erosion ( due to citric acid) makes our teeth vulnerable to infections and other oral problems such as the sensitivity of teeth.

Damage to teeth enamel can’t be reversed and it is better to avoid drinking too much lemon juice. Using a straw to drink lemon juice is also good as it minimizes contact of acids with the teeth, and reduces the risk of teeth erosion.

# May Cause And Worsen Heartburn

In large doses, citric acid in lemons may trigger improper functioning of the esophageal sphincter and increase the risk of heartburn.

The esophageal sphincter is a bundle of muscles that separates the esophagus and stomach. It ensures that the acid in the stomach doesn’t go upwards into the esophagus region.

The citric acid in lemons causes improper functioning of the esophageal muscle and prevents it from working properly. It may cause the stomach acid to go upward into the esophagus and cause heartburn ( burning sensation around the chest).

# May Cause Frequent Urination & Dehydration

Lemons are an excellent source of vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant that protects against cancer, and provide many other benefits such as strengthening the immune system, improving cardiovascular health, improving respiratory health, and so on.

Vitamin C is a natural diuretic and increases urination frequency in the body.This helps to flush out toxins, impurities, and excess mineral salts from the body.

# Are Highly Contaminated With Pesticides

Often, lemon slices are used as a garnish on the rim of the glass and some people also put an entire lemon wedge in their health drinks.This may look esthetically pleasing but is not always healthy.

Lemons are often coated with wax to protect them from damage during shipping and inspection. This wax coating is usually prepared by toxic jelly, ethyl alcohol, and ethanol.

By dipping lemon wedges in our drink, we may contaminate our drinks.To prevent this, wash lemons thoroughly before using them.

# Increases Risk of Ulcers and GERD

Because of its high citric acid levels, overconsuming lemons may cause nausea, vomiting, and heartburn.Acids in lemon may even break down our esophageal and stomach lining and could increase the risk of ulcers and Gastroesophageal Reflux disease.

# Can Increases Risk of Kidney Stones And Gallbladder Stones

Vitamin C and other antioxidants in lemon protect our vital organs like the liver and kidneys from free radical damage.Dietary fibers in lemon promote detoxification and reduce the detoxification burden from kidneys.

However, in large doses lemons are bad for kidneys.In large doses, oxalates in lemon may bind with minerals such as calcium and potassium, and increase the risk of kidney stones and gall bladder stones.