Drink 8 oz. of warm water mixed with the juice of half a lemon every morning before eating to kick start your metabolism. Lemons contain the highest level of citric acid of all fruits, according to health writer Theresa Cheung, author of "The Lemon Juice Diet." The citric acid reacts with other acids and enzymes in your digestive system to promote healthy digestion and weight loss.

Eat the peel of your lemons. The pectin found in lemon peel is a good source of fiber and, when ingested, forms a sticky gel in the digestive system that may inhibit the stomach from absorbing sugar too quickly, thereby aiding in weight loss. Wash your lemon peel well before eating to remove wax and residue.

Use lemon juice liberally as a replacement for condiments and food flavorings that are high in fat and calories. Lemon juice makes a great substitute for high-calorie salad dressing, either alone or combined with a little bit of olive oil. Squeeze lemon juice on fish dishes or beans instead of adding extra oil or butter. Squeeze lemon juice on fresh berries for a little sweetness and zing.

Drink unsweetened fizzy water with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice instead of drinking sugary sodas and fruit juices. The bubbles will satisfy your craving for carbonation and the lemon juice will lend a sweet, tangy flavor.

Keep a pitcher of cold lemon water in the refrigerator. Whenever you get a craving for high-calorie foods, pour a glass of lemon water and drink it down. It will help you feel full and satiated.