21 Day Morning Detox Routine | littlegreendot.com

This week I taught a workshop on how to Detoxify Your Skin. It’s always fun – we show you tons of recipes to make your own natural skincare – but one of my favorite beauty recipes is actually not something that you put onto your skin, but rather into your body!  It’s a routine that I love doing and I really want to encourage you to join me! It’s going to help you detoxify your body and glow!

UPDATE: I’ve put everything I know about simple, healthy natural skincare into a BRAND NEW three-week online workshop called:

“SIMPLIFY Skin: Natural, effortless, whole food skincare”

You’ll learn to toss out the toxins, and surround yourself with beautiful skincare that you confidently make yourself!

Check it out here: littlegreendot.com/simplify-skin

Here’s what you do: Right when you wake up, before you eat anything – drink a big glass of warm water with a squeeze of lemon. There are a lot of health reasons why, but I’m most excited about the change of perspective that this routine offers.

Here’s the thing: when it comes to our culture of beauty, think about how many products we use on our skin everyday. The average consumer uses – are you ready for this: 16! If you start to count, there’s your lotion, every bit of make-up, night-cream, eye cream, wrinkle cream, face wash, toner… the list goes on.

We use all of these beauty products, exposing our skin to so many different chemicals and the really irritating part is that  a lot of them don’t even work. If you really want to look your best – it’s about changing your perspective, from focusing on achieving “beauty” to achieving health. Instead of looking to products to solve your beauty concerns, look at healthy foods, which can really can improve your skin at a cellular level!

When you start doing this morning detox routine, you feel and see results – a lot of your skin concerns may clear up and you’ll realize that you never needed all the products and creams! When you feed your body what it needs and help it to detoxify, you’ll see:

  • reduction in eye circles
  • clearer skin
  • glowing skin
  • anti-ageing effects
  • increased energy
  • weight control

Morning Detox Lemon Water - 21 Day Morning Detox Routine | littlegreendot.com

So that’s where the water and lemons help! Hydrated skin is supple, less prone to wrinkling and flushes your body of toxins. I’m convinced that a lot of people looking for anti-aging creams are actually just dehydrated! With the lemons, you’re going to get an extra boost of Vitamin C which helps to build collagen and keep your skin taut and firm! It also helps to boost your digestion and metabolism, to help you burn calories through out the day. Tell me, what product can promise all that! So stay out of the beauty aisles, save your money, and use it for something really useful!

Are you ready to try it? Here’s what you do:

Morning Detox Routine

  • 1/2 lemon
  • 2-4 cups warm water
  1. squeeze the lemon into your warm water
  2. drink this first thing in the morning, before breakfast, then eat as normal. Though, you may find that by starting your day with this healthy intention, it really changes the way you think about what kind of foods you want to eat the rest of the day!
  3. If your mornings are rushed, just drink your lemon water as you get dressed.
  4. do this every single morning for 21 days, then report back and tell us what changes you’ve noticed!

p.s. set yourself up for success! This routine is easy, but you need to set your mind to creating a healthy habit…

  • Go to the store today and buy 4 lemons, so you’re set for the week.
  • To help you track and keep your habits, I love the app Coach.me – it has a really fun swiping motion to check off your list of goals as you tackle them throughout the day. Plus you can invite friends to cheer you on and keep you accountable to achieving the things that you want for yourself.

Go get those lemons, and join me tomorrow morning for the 21 Day Morning Detox Routine!

UPDATE: I’ve put everything I know about simple, healthy natural skincare into a BRAND NEW three-week online workshop called:

“SIMPLIFY Skin: Natural, effortless, whole food skincare”

You’ll learn to toss out the toxins, and surround yourself with beautiful skincare that you confidently make yourself!

Check it out here: littlegreendot.com/simplify-skin

224 responses to “Natural Beauty – Morning Detox Routine”

  1. This is awesome. Your mail actually came at the time I made a mental note to start a detox but didn’t really know how to go about it. Thank you. I’ll be sure to start immediately. Happy detox 🙂

  2. Love it! Another step I’ve been adding to my morning routine is “coconut pulling” – you swill coconut oil in your mouth (can do in the shower for about 5-10 minutes) and it’s supposed to drag out the toxins as well as whiten your teeth. There are tons of articles if you search “coconut pulling”. Many thanks for the great tips – I love your blog!

  3. love your article … it says 21-day detox program

    once this is over, do I just continue? or do I stop for awhile, and do it again … how long is awhile?

    • Hi Li Leng! I think 21 days is a good start to see results – but ideally it becomes an everyday habit. Even just a glass of warm water on its own is a good way to start your digestion before breakfast. And, if you stop for a while, that’s ok – just start up again 🙂

  4. Yes!! I started this detox treatment 2 weeks ago, after just 4 days I felt the difference. Not just on surface (my face etc) but I felt great inside as well. Fantastic!!

  5. Heys! Thanks for the post! Quick qn about the ‘recipe’ though…it’s 1/2 lemon for 2-4 cups of water. Are we supposed to drink these 2-4 cups at one go? Lol, I ask cos I drink probably a glass of water only before breakfast (tsk!) so 2-4 cups sound like a lot. I tried 1/2 lemon in my one glass of water & it wasnt too sour so wondering if this will work too? Thanks again!

    • Hi Tam! I would say drink what your comfortable with now. Just by forming the habit alone of doing something positive first thing in the morning – it’s going to have a great impact 🙂 let us know how you get on!

  6. Thanks for inspiring me to start this habit again. i used to have lemon + water+ honey every morning and along the way few moths ago I had stopped doing that and felt lazy to get back onto doing this.

    I read this, went and bought some lemons ( I admit this is criticial & I am more likely to have it if I have lemons at home all week long) & have been having it daily without fail till now. I started at the time of this post. I feel achy and old if I skip a day.

  7. I love drinking lemon infused water! To make it easier for me, I invested in a Citrus Zinger, keep it in the fridge and drink it the whole day…sometimes I add a little ACV into it… After I am done with the lemon, I throw it into my dish detergent bowl and it helps to cut grease, or rub it on the basins or stove or even rub it on some dark spots on my skin, it helps to lighten them…

    • Hi Magdalene – awesome tips! Lemons are great for cleaning the house – I like to infuse my vinegar with peels too and use it to make my household cleaning products

    • Hiya! Limes, lemons and oranges are all good options – they are acidic to taste, but alkaline forming in the body.

      Limes don’t have quite as much vit C as lemons or oranges, but if you prefer limes – go for it! Even a small effort, done often, will have great effects!

  8. Do the lemons or oranges have any effect on teeth because they are acidic? Could one just do orange infused water and just drink that during the day instead of plain water?

    • I haven’t had an issue with my teeth, but some, their teeth may be sensitive. One reader’s tip was to use a straw, which is actually how I drink it and may also be why I’ve never had problems with it! I think orange infused water sounds great – the idea of the lemon water first thing is really about kickstarting your body just after waking up. Let us know how you get on!

  9. my breakfast has to include coffee and bread, so is it okie after lemon drink? and can I keep the other half lemon for the next day, and how to store? tks

    • Hi! That’s totally fine. I usually drink a green shake after, but sometimes I like to eat toast with avocado too! I store my other half of the lemon in the fridge – I don’t even bother covering it, but you can store it in a container…

      • I have stored lemons two different ways to preserve the juice so they don’t dry out:

        1. This is my preferred option: Place the cut lemon in a plastic storage bag, sandwich bag or even wrapped tightly in plastic wrap. Be sure to squeeze out as much air as possible to keep it fresh for the next day/use.

        2. In a pinch, I have used this method: Place cut side down in a container that is as close to the size of your lemon and cover. Try to be sure your container lid goes on easy so you don’t smash the lemon pulp. Keeping the pulp from bursting ensures the juice will be fresh and yummy for the the next day/use.

  10. Lemon is such a superb cleaner even down to the cellular level. Part of the lemon juice fast, it is amazing what the lemon does.

    In “cleaning out the filters”, always job one in healing, cleaning the colon first is greatly desired so that a main elimination route is “open for business” so’s to speak. Then one can move to liver and kidney. Many times, cleaning the filters, puts the body into the position and ability to heal itself and it was created to do in the first place. I would love to see a colon cleanse that truly works with the chronically constipated..

    Love this list!
    Bb

    • Hi Tim! Room temperature water is meant to be absorbed by the body easier. If you prefer it cold, you’ll still be getting the benefits from it – so go for it! :))

  11. I recently read an article by a doctor that drinking lemon in water right before you eat carbs helps balance blood sugar better & insulin resistance.

  12. *Don’t yell at me*
    Can I use lemon juice concentrate? The squeeze stuff from the bottle? I would like to try this, but lemons are extremely expensive here and I have a whole bottle of the stuff in my fridge. I know it won’t have nearly as many health benefits, but would it be beneficial to do it that way than not at all? Thanks!

    • Hi Brittany – haha, I wouldn’t yell at you… no 🙂 I think the drink is about starting your day with something detoxifying, natural and the bottled stuff is full of chemicals and preservatives. Hope it’s easy for you to get a hold of some fresh lemons! 🙂

  13. Hi! I would love to try this routine… After 21 days, do we stop… or continue as we like?
    My little girls are 9yo & 6yo… are they too young for this?

    • Hi Fern! Awesome – it’s a great way to start your day. See how you feel, and if it’s working with you, sure it can be something that you carry on! I think if your girls are curious to taste what you’re drinking, it’s totally fine that they try it, but I wouldn’t necessarily have them follow a detox program… but that’s just my opinion, its something that you could talk to a doctor about. Let us know how you get on 🙂

  14. I used to drink my selfmade sirup from ginger & lemon with water in the morning & love it. I will try it tomorrow with warm water 😉
    Thank you for your posts!

  15. Hey Melitza! Quick question: May I use 100% lemon juice from concentrate (with added ingredients- sodium bisulfite (preservative) & sodium benzoate (preservative), lemon oil)?? instead of actual lemons?

    • Hi Natalie! I would stick with real lemons, we want to start the day with something detoxifying, fresh and natural. Hope it’s easy enough for you to get a hold of lemons where you are! 🙂

  16. I was really hoping she (or someone) would answer some of these questions as I would also like to know why the water has to be warm (yuck) and how warm? As well as using bottled juice or essential oil????

    • Hi! Sorry – honestly I’ve been blown away by the response! Warm or room temperature water is meant to be easier for the body to absorb, but if that grosses you out – then drink it cold. You’ll still get the benefits. I would only use real lemons though. Let us know how you get on! 🙂

  17. I would love to try this but I commute. It’s about an hour from the time I wake up until I am in the office. I don’t think I could hold that much water for that long. Sounds great to at least do on the weekend..thanks for the tip!

    • Hi James – taking it with you is a great tip, but even if you only do it on the weekends, I think the act of starting a healthy habit alone will be great!

  18. Hi Brittany

    The Lemons must be in their raw state in order to work as a naturally occurring medicine. Like with the lemon juice fast, concentrate will not work as it has been “killed” by pasteurization and does not contain life. I tested this once and quickly saw a dramatic result between live lemon and concentrate. Natural medicine is harder work, BUT it works far better than pharma “medicine” AND won’t actually kill you with side effects (imo). A short squeeze session for the day really isn’t that much work for the benefits yielded. As the “average” turnover for cells in the body is 30 days, going beyond 21 days could be beneficial through-out the body. Also this should (in general) alter ph terrain in the body to a more alkali system which is HUGELY beneficial in the prevention and treatment of disease. In the end, lemon is very GOOD.

  19. Started doing this a few weeks ago and I did notice my skin improving. For about a week there were a few mornings I forgot to drink it. My skin went back to being red again. I need to start remembering again because I really liked seeing the improvements!!!!
    Thank you!!!!

    • Hi Claire! So great to hear that! I know what you mean about forgetting to drink it – it’s hard to start a new habit. But, when you see how well the body responds, its a great motivation to keep it up! :))

  20. Hi, as soon as I wake up I am taking levothyroxine for my hypothyroidism. So I need to wait one hour to take this water and followed by breakfast. Is that ok or do I need to drink water on an empty stomach too.

  21. Always wanted to try this but never had the discipline to, and also I hate sour stuff!! 🙂 but immensely inspired by your post, think I LL give it a shot tomorrow onwards!!!

  22. Instead of using lemons I have heard that a few tablespoons of active culture apple cider vinegar will accomplish the same desired effect. I often have the lemon water but was considering switching to the acv for the probiotics contained there. Have you heard similarly?

    • Hi Rene! Yes, that would be a great thing to try. Personally, I’m not crazy about the flavour, but it may work for you :))

      If you try it, let me know how it goes!
      Cheers,
      Militza

  23. Great info! I will get my lemons and start tomorrow! I saw that Bob was looking for a great colon cleanse. I have take Colonix colon cleanse from http://www.drnatura.com many times and it is very effective! It includes fiber that you can continue to use daily and It really works for constipation.

    • Hi Cy,

      Ha ha – sounds funny, I know. What I’ve noticed is that my skin has improved and I’ve not been buying as many beauty products – which has helped me to declutter my cabinets and save tons of money! 🙂

  24. For all the people who can’t get hold of fresh lemons
    ….I have been using raw unfiltered apple cider vinegar with”mother”. This has no preservatives and one brand is Braggs from the health food shop. One to two teaspoons in 2 to 3 cups of warm water.This seems to have the same effect of detoxifying, improving the skin etc .and putting the body into an alkaline state at the start of the day. I think it’s a healthier than lemon or lime concentrate.You can add a bit of honey if you find it too sour.

  25. I use real lemon juice, our nearest grocery store is about an hour from me in the mountains.. and I do it with ice water through out the day… have heard different ideas between the warm vs ice water… just wondering about the ‘real lemon juice”

  26. Someone asked about using lemon juice concentrate, I think an organic lemon juice concentrate would be the way to go, I live in the middle of no where, no organic lemons here. That is why I have been doing ths with brags AVC, which it is affordable and organic.

    • Hi Tina,

      I think that’s smart – it’s about doing the best you can with what you have. AVC is a great option! 🙂

  27. Is this safe do for 21 days if you have acid reflux, GERD or gastrointestinal disorder? Also what about if a person have had ulcers on the esophagus?

  28. Hi,
    Thanks for your wonderful tips,
    I have a habit of drinking alomst a liter water every morning empty stomach, would half a lemon would be enough for this much quantity of water or I can squeeze a full lemon into it?
    Please suggest…

  29. Will I get the same benefit if I add a pinch of himalaya salt into the lemon ginger water? The reason I add the salt because I don’t like sour taste water.

    • Hi Li-Ming,

      My thoughts are to keep it simple – lemon and water. Give it a go and if you start to feel benefits, you may start to appreciate the flavour more :))

  30. Hi, you seemed to be following a lot of healthy diet- avacado, green drink. Pls share the tips and recipes. Thanks. I am starting my detox from tom 🙂

  31. Hi, thanks for the great info!
    Would love to try it. But is it OK to drink lemon on an empty stomach? I’m worried it might cause side effect as I have gastric
    Thanks!

    • Hi Leen,

      Everyone is different, I’ve never experienced problems from it – but if you think that you may – talk to your doctor, or try it out and see how you feel.

      hope that helps! 🙂

  32. I have been doing this everyday since the beginning of the year. Sometimes I add a dash of cayenne pepper.

    I still have the high and low of dull skin,tiredness, etc.

    How do you explain it?

    • Hi Vicky! Ooh, cayenne pepper sounds fab – especially on those mornings we really need a good kick!

      It’s hard to say what’s going on – so many factors to consider. I hope you’re getting enough rest, eating well and generally feeling good!

  33. How would I use the fresh ginger in the lemon water? I’ve never used fresh ginger in anything. I’m not sure how to use it. Thanks

  34. This sounds great, but i was wondering if i can make the water for 3-4 days ahead, so i don’t need to make it every single morning?

    • Hi Anita,

      It’s best fresh, vit C loses it’s potency very quickly. Once you get into the habit, it takes only a minutes to get it ready! HOpe you give it a go! 🙂

  35. I started the detox today and everything, all day long has tasted like lemons. More water? Less lemon? Definitely curbed my appetite all day but don’t know if I can do that every day…..

  36. I drink warm lemon water every morning. Over the holidays I missed a couple days and i felt it. It keeps me regular and didn’t notice that till I stopped. I some times use my lemon essential oil if I don’t have lemons on hand. Only one drop per glass though, it’s strong. My 5 year old loves it too.

  37. I just started today…it’s my first time and am not used to drink it but it’s not that bad…hope i will notice difference 🙂

    • Hi Pam,

      Definitely fresh, the concentrated bottles comes with preservatives and we want to give our body a clean detox 🙂
      Give it a go and let us know how great you feel!

  38. Thank you for creating this blog. It is really helpful and close to daily life. I will have a try on this 21 days detox =)

  39. What about those that have sensitive teeth? I would love to drink lemon water but I don’t want to make my teeth even worse!

    • Hi Hannah – if it makes your teeth hurt – that’s going to be an issue for you. you can try drinking from a straw – but if it does’t help, then perhaps this one is not for you. Start with water in the morning before you eat – to build up the healthy habit. and experiment with adding a bit of lemon if you can and see how you go.

      drinking a big glass of water in the morning will help you to flush out those toxins – so you’ll still be doing a great thing!

    • Hi Michele – I once asked my friend, an aromatherapist about using lemon essential oils for the detox – and she wasn’t for it. I’ll ask her to inform us more on as to why, but I’d say start with warm water to get the habit going and once your car is fixed you can go pick up your lemons!

  40. It is funny reading about this detox as I accidentally started doing it about two weeks now but not for the reasons listed here. I work on computers all day and I realized that I was getting some extra weight on my belly. I was also not eating right so I started having gas problems. Knowing that sipping water with lemon in it would help alleviate the gas I started drinking it everyday. Low and behold I started feeling more energetic and the gas went away but I also started losing weight while eating my meals. I can tell anyone who wants to try this that is does work!

    • Hi Alice – I wouldn’t – we want the water and lemon to flush our body before we eat anything else. If you’re not a fan of lemon water, I think it would be better to add less lemon than to add something else. But honey and lemon sounds like a great drink to have in the daytime too! 🙂

    • Hi Kris! Just plain water and lemon first thing – then have the green tea with lemon in the day too – because that sounds lovely! 🙂

    • Hi Kris! Green tea is lovely, but I that the added caffeine may not be the best for this morning cleanse. Give it a try and let me know how you feel! 🙂

  41. I LOVE it ! 😀 I have started it a few days ago ! And I feel great 🙂 It does lighten my eyes circle! I recommend it to my family too !

    Thank you so much !!! 🙂

  42. Seen this post a few days ago so i had my hubby go get me some lemons and i started the 21 day detox this morning !! So i will come back in 21 days , maybe even a few times before then and let you know my thoughts.

    • That’s great Ashley!! Please do check in, I look forward to hearing how you feel 🙂 And, good on your hubby for helping to support you!

  43. I love drinkng warm lemon water…. During the day I also drink lemon water…. Good to drink thru the day-

  44. Hi..I’ve been doing this detox..its my 6th of drinking lemon with warm water.what i’ve is I feels always hungry..

    • Hi Sheila,

      Great work on starting your healthy routine! Hope you’re getting on well and sticking with it! Let us know how you’re feeling 🙂

    • Hi Dian,

      Good on your for starting a healthy habit! I haven’t had problems, and I haven’t heard of anyone having issues, but if your teeth are sensitive you may need to be mindful of that. See how you go and you can always cut down on lemon juice if you feel like your teeth are feeling sensitive… keep up the great work!

    • Hi Colleen,

      Go for the fresh lemons – the stuff in the container has preservatives and we want to keep this natural and easy on the body! 🙂

  45. When you say warm water… Do you mean like hot from the kettle and cooled down for a bit or room temperature? Also do you squeeze the half of lemon in or just place the half in the glass and let it combined on its own? Starting tomorrow=)

    • Hi Lisa,

      Yay! So happy to hear your starting this routine – I think you’ll feel great, but please do let me know how you get on!

      By warm, it just means room temperature really. It’s meant to be easier on the body. I do squeeze the lemon in, but if you like a more intense flavor, you can put the lemon in the water too!

      All the best to you!
      Militza

  46. Hi Militza, I just went & got some lemons today, going to get started first thing in the morning. I am just curious though if this has any benefits for my lungs as I am not even 50 years old & suffer from sever C.O.P.D. & am looking for anything that is beneficial to my lungs. Will this help in this area as well ? If not do you know of any thing natural that will improve my lungs as I really am not liking all the inhailors that I am using especially the steroid one. I suffer from tremors from using my inhailors as well & would really like to find a natural salutation so I can get off inhailors all together. Hope you can help. Thanks for the lemon idea can’t wait to get started. I’m starting to get wrinkles on my face so I am excited to see if it works. 🙂

    • Hi Laurie,

      How’s your morning routine been going for you? Hope you’re feeling great!

      I couldn’t say for certain that any one thing will help your COPD, I’ve found that a holistic approach has helped me in my struggles and personal journey. I look at the foods that I eat, the activities I spend time doing, the thoughts I keep in my head – and consciously spend time everyday making small choices that move me forward. I think modern medicine is amazing and should never be ignored – try to find the best experts in the field – passionate and informed people who can help provide you answers. Combine that with conscious healthy living and I think you will thrive! I already see you already have a positive attitude!

      All the best to you!
      Militza

    • Hi Katie,

      Warm or room temp water is easier on the body to digest – it doesn’t have to be – if you prefer it cold you’ll still see great benefits!

  47. I’ve been doing this for a year, now is a habit. My skin and digestion are better. I also read is good before going to bed, then I do it when I have time. Thx for posting this

  48. I have tried this & I always feel full of energy when I start my day this way. I also like to start my day with oil pulling. How can I do both? Pull first, drink second or vice versa? Thanks so much!

    • Hi Stephanie!

      It makes such a difference, doesn’t it! I would drink this first – I know that oil pulling takes some time… but really I think what ever works to your schedule will make it an easier habit to keep.

  49. I add fresh ginger root and cucumbers for a great detox. I’ve never done for 21 days straight but I think this is the week to start. Thank you for the inspiration.

    • Hi Josie! Fantastic – so glad to hear it and I look forward to hearing the results 🙂

      love the sound of ginger and cucumber – so refreshing! 🙂

    • Hi Minoo!

      I think that sounds like a lovely drink – perhaps best to start your day with just the lemon water – something simple for the body. You can always make your drink to carry along the day! 🙂

  50. Um.. is there anything else that will do the same as the lemons?? as I am allergic to citrus. I get HUGE fever blisters/cold sores when I eat/drink citrus..
    Pineapple, lemons, limes, grapefruit, Kiwi, Mangos and to much tomato really tries to make me ill.. I would LOVE to do this detox..

    • Hi Jennie!

      How about ginger? It’s gives a great kickstart to your body, you can try ginger and cucumber. Guava and papaya also have a lot vitamic C for the beautifying properties of the detox… try playing with those ingredients to create your morning drink>

      Hope that helps! 🙂

    • Hi Stan,

      I think it’s best to use fresh, the bottled stuff often has preservatives and other ingredients – and what we want is something easy on the body. You just need 4 lemons for the week 🙂

    • Hi Sara!

      I keep it simple with the lemon to start the day – but whatever makes it easy for you to start the routine, I say go for it! 🙂

  51. Hi Militza.
    I have read an article,
    Drinking 2glass cold water 1st thing in the
    Morning will help boost your metabolism.
    Im doing this for like almost a month.
    I love it coz it helps me poop everyday.
    (Before, i poop like every-other day or 4x a week)
    So, i was wondering f i could just use
    My daily morning habit and just add lemon?

    Thank u so much…

  52. I have stage 4 Non hodgkins lymphoma . I went through chemo in 2009. In 2012 I agine had chemo with a drug called Treanda. I have felt bad for a long time and also lost all my hair. Now it is 2014 and I still have no hair. I want to try this so I can feel better and loss some weight. What are your thoughts? I have talked with my DR’s about doing protein shakes and meal replacement with my Nutrobullet and they said OK. Just eat 1 good healthy meal everyday. This sounds like the fresh start I need.

    • Hi Shirley,

      You’re such a fighter – what an inspiration! Keep up the great work, feeding yourself well and feeling good! I think the way we start our day, really sets the tone for how we feel and I’m happy you found inspiration here for a “fresh start”

      As with everything, consult your doctor – and let us know how you get on! 🙂

    • Shirley: I’m a published author and found this book doing research. I ordered it and was so impressed by the information/research that I purchased 3 more, one for each of my children. It is full of prevention information, and alternative cancer treatments [historical by those who were cured – also a list of alternative cancer clinics] Everyone should definitely read this book! Title – ‘Cancer Step Outside the Box’ by Ty Bollinger. Amazon carries it and it has a large review. Another book we have in our private library – ‘World Without Cancer’ by G. Edward Griffin.

      God Bless you, Shirley for you have been through so much. Take care.

      Dianne

  53. Hi, i’ve seen many different articles and some suggested warm water with lemon in the morning while some suggested cold water? Which do you think is better? Thanks 🙂

    • Hi Valere,

      Room temperature or warm water is meant to be easier on the body… but where I live it’s really hot, so often I enjoy this drink cold.

      • The warm water helps with easier bowel movements. When I worked in the kitchen at a nursing home, we would give the clients warm water per their request, as it helps like a lube for the colon. I thought I’d try it, and it did help, having a glass of warm water with each meal. But, I have also used real lemon juice in my warm water cause I know it helps detox. But I didn’t know it helped clear the skin. So, I guess I will be using it every day. T

    • I can not drink warm water so is it ok that I drink it cold? I got my daughter who is 4 loves lemon water!!

  54. I love this detox!!! It hydrates my body and my skin looks great!!! I’ve never had such glowing skin!! Also, I’m prone to getting uti’s and this has eliminated any issues I was having! Sometimes during the day I put lemon, lime, cucumber and a couple mint leaves in my water. It’s super refreshing on a hot day! 🙂

    • Hi Katie! If the essential oil is for consumption – you can try that. But it’s so important to know exactly the right proportions of oil to water. For those who are not sure – stick with the whole fruit!

    • You can, but those bottles all contain preservatives. Fresh lemons will last ages in a cool dark place, so I recommend you use the real thing where possible!

  55. I love this idea, but I’m not crazy about lemon. Since it’s mainly about getting the vitamin C, do you think I could substitute in oranges for the lemons?

    • Hi Lindzi! What ever helps you to start the healthy habit – I say go for it! Lemon has less sugar – it’s more ideal, but you do what helps you get started!

  56. I have used fresh lemons in water myself. I even order it with meals at restaurants. And there
    s times I used warm water, which helps ease bowel movements. And I also use another detox drink, that is yummy. I take 2 bags peach tea, 2 C. water, 1 tsp. ginger, 3 Tbsp. apple cider vinegar and 1/2 C. sugar (or to your taste). Heat up water with tea bags & ginger & sugar til ginger & sugar are dissolved. Add apple cider vinegar and allow to simmer for 5 min. Take a half gallon container and fill half way with ice, then add tea mixture. Stir to melt ice and add more cold water to fill container. Drink 1 8 oz. glass 3 times a day.

  57. Can I add cinnamon & raw honey to this for additional health benefits or will it take away the detoxification benefit itself?

    • Hi Lynn! This is more of a morning flush – it’s best to keep it simple, just water and lemon. But that sounds lovely and you should def. drink that in the day too! 🙂

  58. I have been doing 8oz of warm water with a whole lemon squeezed into it. Is this not enough water and too much lemon? Isn’t 2-4 cups a lot of water to 1/2 a lemon?

    • Hi Jen! Drinking 8oz with a whole lemon – that’s awesome and I’m sure you’re feeling great for it! I think that it’s best to do what works for you, to keep it sustainable for you – I fill a big container and carry it with me throughout the morning, drinking as I get ready and before I eat. Half a lemon works for my taste and budget – but if you prefer a full lemon that’s perfectly fine. Some people can be a bit sensitive to too much fruit acid, but again – it’s what works for you that matters! 🙂 Keep it up!

  59. Is it a small lemon or a large lemon?
    I bought 3 large lemons the other day, squeezed them, and put them in an ice tray in the freezer. This way, I know they will get used before they spoil! 🙂

  60. I start each day with fresh lemon water. Thank you for raising awareness of this healthy practice. Love your blog. I am sharing and pinning this! I also subscribed and followed you on social media to stay in touch. All the best, Deborah

  61. Does warm water mean heated up a bit? I drink bottled water at room temperature. I rarely refrigerate it. Is this ok, or does it actually need to be warmed? Thanks.

  62. Can I use the green limes?

    I was doing ACV, lime & raw honey for 4 months. Everyday as I read drinking this mix is good for your health … But I noticed that I lost muscle. Did I overdid it? How often you do this detox? I stopped drinking it for a week …

    Thank you

  63. I absolutely LOVE the morning detox routine. I’ve been doing it for a lot longer than three weeks, and I didn’t originally find it from this post. Either way, it does such great things for my metabolism & appetite in the morning, along with a boost in my skin health! I’m only 21 but I plan to do this for the rest of my life. Sometimes the acid from the lemons can be a bit rough on your teeth, so sometimes I add a little extra water and reduce the amount of lemon. I highly recommend this routine to anyone looking to improve their health! (also, organic lemons are the BEST)

    • Hi lg,

      thanks for sharing – so smart to start young! Good for you! It took me much longer to work this all out, but at any age I think it’s such a simple way to make such a big difference 🙂

  64. I drink the juice of one lemon and 1 tablespoon of Bragg’s Organic apple cider vinager with warm water first thing every morning.

  65. Hello….. I have to take synthroid first thing in the morning upon waking…. With plain water for the first hour. Will the lemon interfere with that?
    Thank You

    • Hi Jackie! Fantastic! For sure – I believe that healthy morning and night-time routines really help to keep you feeling your best throughout the day. The discipline keeps your mind focused – so that you can continue making those better choices that make you feel your best.

      Keep it up! 🙂

  66. Excellent pieces. Keep writing such kind of information on your blog.

    Im really impressed by your blog.
    Hello there, You have done an excellent job. I’ll definitely digg it and personally suggest to my friends.
    I am confident they will be benefited from this web site.

  67. I have read where you can use lemon essential oil as well in place of real lemon. Do you agree with this and how much would you use of the lemon oil?

    • Hi Karen,

      You’d have to be super aware of the brand and that it’s food grade oil. To be honest, I feel safest with dosage etc. using real lemons. 🙂

    • Room temperature is great! Really, what ever is easiest and tastiest for you 😉 Cold is not meant to be as good – only becuase it takes time for our body to process – but I think even cold is better than nothing

  68. I started drinking warm water with lemon ten days ago and my skin got worse. Several bones appeared. It is normal that happen? Should I stop drinking?

  69. This sounds like an easy way to clean my body from the toxins! I do not like to start the day with coffee anyway so it won’t be difficult for me to drink a cup of hot water with lemon. Thanks a lot for sharing! Regards! Downham Carpet Cleaners Ltd.

  70. Coming across your site couldn’t of come at a better time! I have been feeling so blah and sluggish lately and know that I need to make a healthier change in my daily routine. What a great way to jump start my morning! I also can’t wait to try your green smoothie drink with the avocado.

  71. This sounds great and exactly what I need. I’ve been trying to eat better and I do good during the day but it’s the evening time that’s hardest for me not to snack around. So I’m hoping this may be another little boost for me. I was wondering if it would be too much to drink this all day? Also would it be OK yo add a little stevia to sweeten it just a bit since stevia is a natural sweetener and not artificial…

    • Hi Karen, here is her response to this same question previously……

      “It’s best not to. They often contain preservatives and other ingredients and we want to keep it simple on our body to detox.”

  72. Hi Militza…can I use calamansi fruit instead of lemon? coz I have so many calamansi plant in our backyard…thank you…

    • Hi Martha – the reason for warm is that it’s easier on the body, but that said – if you prefer cold – do what will work best for you!! It’s still going to be a great benefit!! 🙂

  73. Hello!
    Today was my first day drinking warm water + lemon. I drank only 1 cup of warm water with less than a half lemon, because I am not used to it. I have some problems with my stomach and going to the toilet, also with weight. I hope it will help a little. If not then still will be fine. It’s healthy. :))
    I will comment back after 21 days and share the results.

  74. Hi..I am from Southeast Asia and to my town lemon or lime are not available can I use the Calamansi instead as a substitute for the lemon.I really wanted to try this detox but the city is quite far from my town..
    any recommendation? thanks God Bless

  75. Did you know about calamansi?? We don’t have lemons that’s why i used calamansi it’s also a part of the citrus fruits.. popular in Asian countries.. it’s a small green fruit but it has a vitamins likes lemons etc. Please give some advice. Because i want to lose weight.

  76. How do I make.

    a get rid of wrinkles, crowsfeet at home!! What can I buy myself, And get rid of my wrinkles I would like to use the products that I have at home or if I have to go buy some products from the store please tell me I appreciate it thank you bye

    • Hi Karen! When it comes to our wrinkles, the truth is there’s no product that will turn back time 🙂 There are really interesting studies around which ingredients which have been shown to have anti aging properties: Retinol cream helps to build collagen – it’s a chemical form of vitamin A, but it’s not considered a safe ingredient and should never be used in high doses. Look for Retinaldehyde, which is a gentler form, like from MyChelle.

      Vitamin C and AHA’s will be important – think papaya & yogurt face masks!

      Self love above all – we will see what you reflect.
      Miltza Xx

  77. Thanks a lot for your morning detox routine idea from long time i was searching something natural kind of thing ,I like this very much .

    • Hi Sharon! Oh it’s my pleasure! I love a good morning routine, find it so helpful in getting a good start to the day. Glad you found this useful too!! 🙂

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