When to avoid lemon/lime juice?

Andrew Huberman indicates that while lemon and lime juice can blunt blood glucose response when consumed with sugary foods or large carbohydrate meals, they should be avoided when fasting with low blood glucose levels, as they can lead to hypoglycemia. The mechanism by which lemon and lime juice help control blood glucose involves the perception of sour taste and how sugars interact with gut circuitry 1. Additionally, acidity from lemon or lime juice combined with salt and water has been suggested as a remedy for the shakiness or lightheadedness that can occur during fasting due to low blood sugar 2. It is also noted that excessive acidity, such as frequently consuming lemon juice, can be detrimental to oral health, particularly if the mouth is already in a state of demineralization, as it can exacerbate the formation of cavities by creating an acidic environment that is favorable to cavity-causing bacteria like streptococcus mutans 3.

To summarize, it is generally suggested to avoid lemon or lime juice:

• When fasting with already low blood glucose levels, as it may cause hypoglycemia 1
• If there is a concern about oral health and cavity formation due to the acidic nature of these juices, especially if there are existing dental issues 3