"Drinking water with lemon anytime of the day can help you get and keep better health," registered dietitian Ashley Koff, RD, told INSIDER.

Water is helpful because it brings nutrients into the cells and it also helps remove waste products from the body.

Koff explained that adding lemon (juice) will make the water more "alkaline-forming." This can be helpful for the digestive tract because it creates a nicer home for good bacteria.

"The lemon triggers the release of sodium bicarb (alkaline part) into the small intestine, and this can help relieve indigestion," said Koff.

Stephanie Ferrari, MS, RDN, told INSIDER there's no reason not to drink lemon water. "It helps keep you hydrated and thus improves muscle function and digestion. It may also aid in weight loss."

She explained that the bitter flavor of the lemon is thought to increase bile production and flow. 

What's so special about lemons?

Well, not only do they taste good with pretty much everything, lemons are also a great source of vitamin C, polyphenols, antioxidants, and vitamin C.

Plus, the powerful antioxidants found in vitamin c help fight the damage caused by free radicals.

Drinking lemon water first thing in the morning gives your body the antioxidants it needs to rejuvenate your skin and keep it looking fresh. 

Why should you drink lemon water in the morning?

If lemon water is good for you anytime of the day, what makes the morning so important?

"The benefits of drinking lemon water in the morning may be more related to drinking water than the lemon itself," registered dietitian and weight loss expertPaul Salter told INSIDER.

He explained that drinking a large glass of water can help re-hydrate you after an extended period without fluid consumption. Plus, it also has a positive impact on appetite suppression.

Ferrari explained that when you wake up in the morning your body is in a state of dehydration. Since you've gone roughly eight hours overnight without eating or drinking, your gastrointestinal tract is like a clean slate.

"By starting the day with a full glass of lemon water, you are jump-starting your day with a good source of vitamin C form the lemon and all the benefits of naturally hydrating with water," said Ferrari.

And as an added bonus, if you replace less healthy beverages (like sugar-sweetened coffee drinks) with lemon water, you're cutting calories and adding nutrients. Now that's a win-win.