Home Blog Home and Wellness Disadvantages of Drinking Hot Water with Honey and Lemon

Disadvantages of Drinking Hot Water with Honey and Lemon

by Dr. Jonathan Doyle - Updated September 25, 2025
In Canada, there are many who prefer to start the day off with a hot glass of water with honey and lemon. It's generally thought of as a healthy habit, designed to assist with digestion, boost immunity, and provide a lively pick-me-up. But whereas the liquid does have a few positives, there are also a few cons of hot water with honey and lemon that aren't so well thought of.
This article looks at the potential cons, answers common questions Canadians might have, and provides practical advice on how to use honey-lemon water without any danger. We will also discuss why pure water is essential for any health plan, and why efficient filtering systems like Waterdrop water filters can be of assistance.

What Are the Negative Effects of Drinking Hot Water with Honey and Lemon?

Even though combining honey, lemon, and hot water is invigorating, there are a few potential downsides to keep in mind:

Tooth Enamel Erosion

The juice of lemons is acidic in nature, and constant contact can make tooth enamel soft and susceptible to cavities and sensitivity.
digestive system

Digestive Issues

There are those Canadians who have acid reflux , stomach irritation, or bloating after drinking lemon water, especially on an empty stomach.

Sugar Intake from Honey

Honey is natural, but it is still a type of sugar. Over-consumption can contribute to excess weight, higher blood sugars, and a greater risk of type 2 diabetes.

Burn Risk

Hot water consumption can be damaging to the soft tissues of the mouth and of the esophagus.

Interactions with Health Conditions

Those with citrus allergies, sensitive stomachs, or untamed diabetes might not find honey-lemon water tolerable.

Health-related Questions People Ask

Will Drinking Hot Water with Honey and Lemon Harm Your Teeth?

Yes. Lemon is highly acidic, and it has a pH of around 2. This acid destroys tooth enamel over time. Tooth enamel, once gone cannot be replenished. Canadians who drink honey-lemon water every day should:
  • Use a straw to drink to reduce contact with teeth
  • Wash with plain water afterwards
  • Let at least 30 minutes pass before brushing to prevent enamel wear
lemon water

Is Honey in Hot Water Bad for Your Blood Sugar?

Honey is also sometimes a healthier alternative to refined sugar, but it still has glucose and fructose. There are approximately 17 grams of sugar in a tablespoon of honey.
For Canadians with diabetes or prediabetes , honey can cause blood sugar spikes if it is consumed frequently. Blending honey and lemon may soften the spike a little but not eliminate it. In moderation, it's best—have in moderation.

Can Drinking Honey and Lemon Water Cause Stomach Issues?

For others, yes. Lemon's acidity could exacerbate ailments such as acid reflux, gastritis, or stomach ulcers. Lemon water consumption on an empty stomach may contribute to:
  • Burning sensations in the chest
  • Indigestion
  • Nausea or bloating
In case you feel a sensation of being uneasy, it would be best to consume plain warm water or lemons with food.

Can Drinking Too Much Lemon and Honey Water Harm Kidneys?

Excessive lemon juice increases citrate and oxalate intake, and this can precipitate stone formation in the kidneys and others. Excessive intake of sugars from honey can also put a strain on the kidneys in the long term, especially among diabetics.
Moderation is called for—plain filtered water consumed throughout the day is considerably less risky for the kidneys.
a woman holding a glass of lemon water

Are There Other Substitutes for Lemon and Honey Water?

Yes. If your goal is to be healthy and hydrated, clean and safe reverse osmosis filtered water is always the healthiest option. Zero-added-sugar herbal teas are a tasty and healthy option. Cucumber, berry, or mint-infused water provides the option for variety without the danger of acidity and sugars.

Does Honey and Lemon Help with Weight Loss?

This is a popular myth, but there isn't much evidence. Lemon water and honey can keep you full and replace higher-calorie drinks such as soda or juice. But honey does add to the calorie total, so eating too much will hinder weight loss.
A healthier option for Canadians who are looking to lose weight is to be mindful of drinking with pure, calorie-free water throughout the day.

Can Drinking Hot Lemon and Honey Water Harm Your Skin?

Surprisingly, yes. While others claim it improves skin, others say:
  • Increased dryness due to acidity
  • Honey skin irritation from elevated blood sugars linked to honey eating
  • Citrus breakouts among citrus-sensitives
Every person's body responds differently, but it's essential to keep in mind that diet and fluids impact skin health in multifaceted ways.
honey and lemon water

Does Canadian Water Quality Affect this Drink?

Canada has pure water, but the quality of tap water also varies in provinces and cities . Some of the most frequent are:
  • Chlorine and disinfection byproducts
  • Lead in older plumbing
  • PFAS (forever chemicals) detected in certain regions
  • Off-flavors and off-odors owing to metallic
If you are using tap water as the basis of your honey-lemon infusion, water quality does matter. Impurities can impact flavor, negate health benefits, and make you less likely to drink enough fluids.

Why Should Canadians Consider Water Filters?

In order to get the most from your honey-lemon water—or just regular drinking water—you may find a water filtration system useful. Waterdrop reverse osmosis systems are a reliable choice for homes in Canada. Benefits include:
  • Advanced Filtration – Reduces chlorine, lead, PFAS, and other harmful impurities from drinking water.
  • Excellent Taste – Clean water pairs well with lemon and honey to make it enjoyable.
  • Promotes Hydration – Tastier water ensures that you will drink more.
  • Cost-Effective and Ecologically Friendly – Saves you money on bottled water and reduces plastic waste.
For Canadians who want to balance staying hydrated and healthy, a Waterdrop water filter ensures the water you ingest every day is healthy, fresh, and pure.

Final Thoughts

Lemon and honey water can be included in a healthy diet, but it's no panacea. Its cons are erosion of tooth enamel, a higher number of sugars being ingested, stomach upset, and danger if overused.
For Canadians, it's a matter of moderation and ensuring your base of the drink—the water—is good and of high quality. A Waterdrop reverse osmosis filter ensures your water is pure, fresh, and contaminant-free, and it makes every glass of water a healthier option.
Lastly, the final habit to adopt is consuming plenty of fresh water throughout the day. Lemon and honey are a treat, but water should be your first option for a drink to hydrate.

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Contaminants Detected in  Fruitland Water Special Service District
30
Contaminants
EXCEED EWG HEALTH GUIDELINES

30  Total Contaminants in Your Water

Water Provider

Fruitland Water Special Service District

Population Affected

120,000

Water Source

Ground water
Exceeds Guidelines

Others Detected

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