Does Eating Lemons Burn Fat?

If you're troubled by extra body fat, it can be tempting to turn to supposed miracle foods to help you slim down. But rather than counting on lemons or any other food for weight loss, the most effective solution is to reduce your caloric intake and engage in exercise most days of the week. By expending more calories than you consume, your body will burn stored fat for energy, resulting in weight loss.

A bowl of whole and halved lemons. (Image: Ls9907/iStock/Getty Images)

Lemons and Fat Loss

Lemons don't burn fat, nor does any other food. Only your body burns fat, through the process of metabolism. Still, lemon juice contains just 7 calories per ounce, but packs a heavy punch of flavor. Drinking sparkling water with a squeeze of lemon instead of soda or juice can help you cut hundreds of calories per day, making weight loss easier. Substituting lemon juice for heavy sauces, such as hollandaise, on your asparagus or salmon can also help you dramatically reduce calories.