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| - Last Updated on January 24, 2025 by Dr Priyamvada
Quick Take
A social media post claims that lemon water detoxifies the body. We did the fact check to term this claim as false.
The Claim
A viral Instagram post suggests that lemon water can detoxify the body and remove toxins. It also claims that other foods, such as sweet potatoes, turmeric, and lentils, can treat specific conditions like low energy, joint pain, and anaemia.
Fact Check
Does lemon water detoxify the body?
No, it does not. Lemon water does not detoxify the body. The body has its own efficient detoxification systems (liver and kidneys). While staying hydrated by drinking water, including lemon water, is important for overall health, it doesn’t have special “detoxifying” properties. The whole concept of “detox” drinks is a marketing myth, not a scientifically backed idea.
Lemon water does, however, contain vitamin C, which supports the immune system and skin health. It can also improve the taste of water, encouraging people to drink more fluids. While it is beneficial for hydration and overall health, it is not a magical detox solution.
We reached out to Dr Almas Fatma, MBBS, Diploma in Family Medicine, PG in Digital Health, and General Physician from Navi Mumbai, for her expert take on lemon water for body detox. She clarifies, “Lemon water can be a refreshing and healthy drink, but it doesn’t ‘detoxify’ the body in the way some claims suggest. Your body already has natural detox systems, like the liver and kidneys, that work to remove toxins. Drinking lemon water may help with hydration and provide vitamin C, which supports overall health, but it’s not a miracle cure for detoxification.
On a related note, there are posts which claim that lemon ginger tea can make your hair long and strong, but this is not entirely true.
Can sweet potatoes cure low energy?
It may, but not always. Sweet potatoes are a great source of complex carbohydrates and vitamin A, which provide sustained energy. However, low energy levels can result from numerous factors, such as anaemia, poor sleep, or underlying medical conditions like hypothyroidism. Sweet potatoes can contribute to a balanced diet but cannot “cure” low energy caused by such issues. Persistent fatigue should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.
Does dark chocolate eliminate brain fog?
Partially. Dark chocolate contains flavonoids that may temporarily boost focus by improving blood flow to the brain. However, brain fog often stems from underlying issues such as stress, poor sleep, hormonal imbalances, or nutrient deficiencies. While dark chocolate can offer a short-term benefit, most of its flavonoids are lost during processing. To consume an amount equivalent to flavonoid supplements, you’d need to eat around 700 calories of dark chocolate daily, which is neither practical nor healthy. Relying on dark chocolate is not a solution for brain fog and cannot replace addressing its root causes.
Can papaya ease indigestion?
Partly true. Papaya contains an enzyme called papain, which can help in digestion and reduce mild bloating. However, indigestion can result from various factors, including overeating, stress, or conditions like GERD or peptic ulcers. Studies have also shown that papaya leaves, roots, and seeds can treat ulcers in rats as well as humans. While papaya may offer temporary relief, it is not a cure for chronic or severe digestive problems and should not replace proper medical treatment.
Does ginger tea treat cold symptoms?
It may, to an extent. Ginger tea is often used as a home remedy for colds because of its anti-inflammatory and warming properties. It can help soothe a sore throat and may reduce mild cold symptoms. However, colds are caused by viruses, and there is no cure. Rest, hydration, and over-the-counter medications remain the primary treatments for managing cold symptoms. Similarly, people often recommend ginger and turmeric for curing colds quickly, but they may not work as fast as claimed, and their effectiveness varies from person to person.
Can turmeric relieve joint pain?
Not directly. Turmeric contains curcumin, a compound with anti-inflammatory properties that may help relieve mild joint pain over time. However, the effects are gradual and depend on consistent intake, often in higher doses than what is found in food. For severe joint pain, such as that caused by arthritis, medical treatment is essential. While turmeric can complement treatment, it is not a standalone solution.
Do lentils treat anaemia?
Not on their own. Lentils are a good source of plant-based iron, which can help prevent or manage iron-deficiency anaemia when included in a balanced diet. However, anaemia has multiple causes, including vitamin B12 deficiency, chronic diseases, or blood loss. Lentils cannot address these causes, and severe cases of anaemia often require medical intervention, such as supplements or specific treatments.
For expert opinion we spoke with Dr Swati Dave, PhD in Food and Nutrition, to learn whether lentils can treat anaemia. She explains, “Lentils are a good source of iron, which is essential for treating anaemia. However, the type of iron in lentils (non-heme iron) is not as easily absorbed by the body as the iron found in meat. To help your body absorb more iron from lentils, it’s important to pair them with foods rich in vitamin C, like citrus fruits or tomatoes. While lentils can be part of a healthy diet to manage anaemia, they may not be enough on their own, and additional iron-rich foods or supplements might be needed for effective treatment.”
THIP Media Take
The claim that lemon water detoxifies the body is false. The liver and kidneys naturally perform detoxification, and no specific food or drink can enhance this process. While lemon water is hydrating and provides vitamin C, its effects are limited to general health benefits, not detoxification. Other claims in the post, such as sweet potatoes curing low energy or turmeric relieving joint pain, are also exaggerated or oversimplified.
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