During flu season, everyone has their own good methods for preventing colds. A reader called in to strongly recommend "honey lemon water" and told the editor: "I drink a cup of honey water every day, squeezing the juice of half a lemon into it. I haven't had a cold in four or five years." What's the reasoning behind this? Three nutritionists discussed it.
Fan Zhihong, Associate Professor at the College of Food Science, China Agricultural University: I drink this beverage often, usually a cup after waking up and another half an hour before bed. The editor told me that the reader who called is a teacher, the same profession as me, so maintaining this dietary habit is excellent. This drink has a very obvious "moistening" effect; my throat feels very comfortable after drinking it, which is especially needed in the dry northern weather.
Tip: Choose good quality honey; organic honey is a good option, with prices ranging from about 20 to 50 yuan.
Song Xin, Nutrition Department, Beijing Chaoyang Hospital: Besides honey lemon water, I also recommend honey pomelo tea. Pomelos are now in season too. In addition to soothing the throat, relieving dryness, and preventing colds, it also helps to reduce internal heat. If you've eaten too much spicy food, this tea is a good choice.
Tip: Since the amount of nutrients consumed each time is indeed limited, it's important to be consistent and drink it long-term for it to be effective.
Zhao Yingmin, Senior National Nutritionist: Honey lemon water can be ready in a minute, making it quite suitable for the rush of waking up. Honey is rich in protein, vitamins, and trace elements like iron, making it a great food for boosting immunity. Lemon juice also has a great flavor-enhancing effect; just a little bit makes the taste very refreshing.
Tip: The amount of vitamin C provided by the lemon juice here is relatively small because the quantity is small. You can supplement with fruits rich in vitamin C.
Summary: Honey lemon water is a convenient drink that moisturizes, boosts resistance, but it needs to be consumed long-term to be effective.