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This is probably one of the most popular diet tips. It is widely said that a glass of warm water with a few drops of lemon or lime juice in the morning has beneficial effects on the body, as it supposedly "speeds up the metabolism" and "breaks down fat." So, what are the facts?

It is clear that warm water with lemon cant' lead to weight loss on its own. The idea that specific ingredients or foods leading to fat loss is based on people's desire to believe in 'magic recipes' that will allow them to enjoy their favourite, unhealthy foods without moderation. The food industry also plays a part in this, as it has often been blamed for the ethics it uses in its marketing. One of the biggest myths of the food industry is based on specific foods and ingredients that can quickly and effectively break down fat.

However, this is not the case. In the past, there have been studies trying to prove the effect of lemon on fat loss. The same has been done for caffeine, guarana, cacao and other ingredients. In reality, up til now, there are no proven natural mechanisms that show this is valid.

The indirect contribution of lemon water to weight maintenance and overall wellbeing is another story. Replacing your morning coffee, soft drink or juice with lemon water, which has almost no calories, can definitely help in weight loss, and therefore fat loss in the long term. However, this weight loss will be based on lower calorie intake rather than a complicated 'fat loss' mechanism.

Adding lemon to our water can also make it taste better, which helps us to drink more water overall. Hydration is an important part of maintaining a healthy metabolism.

Finally lemon water has a significant antioxidating effect, and also contains vitamin C which boosts the immune system. So, add some lemon or lime juice to your glass or bottle of water, but remember that a balanced diet and exercise are the basic pillars of maintaining good health.