High blood pressure is often called a silent killer because it often progresses slowly without any obvious symptoms. Over time, it can affect the heart, kidneys, and blood vessels. Therefore, ignoring high blood pressure can be dangerous.

Similarly, many home remedies for controlling blood pressure are going viral on social media these days. Lemon water is a frequent topic of discussion. Many posts claim that drinking a glass of lemon water on an empty stomach in the morning helps control blood pressure. Therefore, many people start trying this remedy without thinking twice.

But how true is this claim? Can drinking lemon water alone control blood pressure? Or is it just a myth? Dr. Swarup Swaraj Pal, senior consultant cardiovascular and thoracic surgeon and heart disease specialist at Gleneagles Hospital, Parel, provides the necessary information to Hindustan Times.

Discussing blood pressure and lemon water,
Dr. Pal said that lemons contain antioxidant components called vitamin C and citrus flavonoids. These components are considered beneficial for the body. They can especially help maintain good blood vessel health. Additionally, drinking lemon water provides the body with plenty of water. Staying hydrated helps maintain proper blood circulation and heart function.

However, this doesn't mean that lemon water directly lowers blood pressure. While maintaining adequate hydration is beneficial for health, it has little effect on blood pressure. Therefore, lemon water can only be part of a healthy lifestyle, not a treatment option.

Does lemon water really lower blood pressure?

To this question, Dr. Pal clearly states that, based on current scientific research, there's no conclusive evidence that lemon water lowers blood pressure or treats high blood pressure. Lemon water can help keep the body hydrated, but mistaking it for medicine would be a grave mistake. Therefore, if someone has high blood pressure, stopping medication or avoiding doctor's advice and drinking only lemon water could be dangerous.

Is it okay to drink lemon water every day?

Although lemon water is good for health, Dr. Pal advises that one should avoid drinking it in excess.

Lemons contain natural acids. Therefore, drinking lemon water daily or in large quantities can erode tooth enamel. Additionally, it may increase acidity, heartburn, acid reflux, or stomach upset in some people.

What exactly should be done to keep blood pressure under control?

According to Dr. Pal, there are no shortcuts to controlling blood pressure. It requires balance in daily habits and proper medical treatment.

Keep salt in your diet low

Exercise regularly

Avoid smoking and alcohol

Control stress

Take your doctor's prescribed medicines regularly

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