In the era of overconsumption, a return to nature is needed. Moreover, natural alternatives are more and more trendy and help to cure the ills of everyday life more healthily. However, do not abuse natural remedies because these, if taken in excess, can lead to serious side effects, even dangerous as the doctors call back.
Among the foods traditionally used for natural remedies and other detox treatments, we find lemon. The latter is known for its vitamin C and citric acid content. It is also given antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antiseptic and appetite suppressant properties, making it an ally for digestion, energy and the prevention of certain diseases. However, consumed in excess, it can be dangerous and cause more inconvenience. Here are 6 situations where the lemon does more harm than good:
1. Lemon can damage tooth enamel
Excessive and regular consumption of lemon can affect tooth enamel. Indeed, a study has shown that lemon juice can be as dangerous as soft drinks and can cause tooth erosion. Several dentists from the British Dental Association also alerted about the dangers of lukewarm water intake each morning. In addition to the acidity of the lemon, the high temperature of the water increases this phenomenon of erosion. Also, it is possible to see spots on the teeth. To limit these effects, it is advisable to drink with a straw and rinse your mouth with plain water directly after consuming lemon.
2. Lemon can aggravate certain digestive disorders
In case of heartburn and ulcers, lemon is contraindicated. Although it can improve digestion, it can also aggravate already existing symptoms. In excess, lemon can be responsible for acid reflux, nausea, vomiting and digestive pain. So be sure to use it occasionally and above all, in reasonable quantities.
3. Lemon can irritate the bladder
While it is true that lemon can reduce some bladder and kidney symptoms, it may also make them worse. In case of urinary infections, incontinence, kidney stones (more than 15mm), lemon is not recommended because it irritates the bladder, increases urination and can cause dehydration.
4. It can cause migraines
Although there is little research on this subject, it seems that lemon is not recommended in case of sensitivity to migraines. It could trigger these and is therefore not recommended in cases of chronic migraines by the Delaware Biotechnology Institute.
5. Lemon can cause sunburn
The cutaneous application of lemon is not recommended before exposure to the sun because the latter is photosensitizing. It can be responsible for severe sunburn as well as brown spots. Moreover, excessive ingestion of lemon is associated with an increased risk of developing melanoma, a form of skin cancer, as an article from Brown University explains.
6. Lemon can interfere with certain medications
Citrus fruits such as lemon, grapefruit and orange, increase the side effects of anti-inflammatories and aspirin, including heartburn. In addition, a study on lemon juice and blood pressure showed that lemon could interfere with drugs that regulate blood pressure.
In general, it is advisable to take the advice of your doctor before choosing a natural alternative. Concerning the lemon and the other foods present in the natural remedies, it is also a question of moderation and respect of the indicated doses.
