Lemonade may not be an ideal drink in the fight against colds and flu?

After all, it’s a drink made from citrus, which is a great source of vitamin C to boost immunity, right? The answer may not be black and white.

Disadvantages of drinking lemonade

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends drinking fluids during colds and flu to prevent dehydration. According to Michele Sidorenkova, a cook and dietitian, drinking sweetened beverages, such as lemonade, may seem like a good way to stay hydrated, but it’s not that simple.

“Compared to whole fruit, sweetened and processed juice gives no real nutritional benefit and can be an easy way to mindlessly swallow a lot of unnecessary added sugar,” she says.

Moreover, when we are sick and lose body fluids (for example, by sweating, vomiting, or diarrhea), we also lose electrolytes, which is why drinking plenty of fluids is so important.

"You can still drink lemonade," says Sidorenkov, "but even lemonade made from freshly squeezed lemons doesn't provide the significant amount of electrolytes you need." Coconut water may be a better option if you are looking for more natural drinks than electrolytes.

What about vitamin C in lemonade - won’t it help treat colds and flu?

There is conflicting evidence as to whether vitamin C can really boost the immune system and defend it from harmful viruses and bacteria.

Nevertheless, the benefits of vitamin C stem from daily long-term intake, not just if someone is already ill.

Conclusion

Just because there is no evidence to suggest that lemonade can cure the flu, doesn’t mean you should avoid it. Of course, as with everything, moderation is key.

The American Heart Association recommends that women not consume more than 25 grams of added sugar per day while limiting men's intake to 36 grams.

If you want to avoid excess sugar, Sidorenkov recommends that you make lemonade with fresh lemon yourself, instead of buying it in a store.

By: Amber V.