Do you know about the fantastic benefits of lemons and limes? From heart health to boosting your energy and adding flavour to food, there are plenty of advantages to having these two citrus fruits in your pantry.
15 Fantastic Benefits of Lemons and Limes
A Powerful Antioxidant Boost
Both lemons and limes contain phenolic acids, vitamin C, coumarins and essential oils that are good for you. The antioxidant content combats free radicals that cause cell damage that is responsible for disease and a range of other health issues.
Added Flavour To Dishes
Whether you’re adding lemon or lime to a bland fish dish for extra flavour, or to a glass of water to make it more tantalizing, these citrus treats offer the same minerals and vitamins than other citrus fruits, however, they contain less sugar.
Replenish Your Energy Levels
The riboflavin and thiamine contained in lemons and limes are part of B Complex vitamin group that transforms food into energy your body needs. They are also beneficial for cell growth and health. Just one medium-sized fruit daily is enough to provide your body with what it needs.
Get Rid of Nasty Critters
The acidity in lemons and limes helps kill bacteria like salmonella that might linger on the kitchen counter or cutting board. They are also delicious in salads for the perfect tangy flavour.
RELATED: 10 Healthy foods that are filling
Anti-aging Benefits
Your body cannot generate vitamin C, that’s why you need to eat foods like lemons and limes that pack a powerful punch. Vitamin C helps your body to create collagen, the magical stuff that keeps your skin full and wrinkle-free. With the right nutrition and vitamins, you can slow down the aging process.
Cancer Prevention
While no evidence exists that lemons and limes can combat cancer, the antioxidants contained in them can help with prevention. This is especially true for bone, colon, liver, bone, stomach, and breast cancer.
Give Your Brain a Lift
Limes and lemons contain special chemicals that protect brain cells from toxic substances in the body. Due to the protection, they provide against inflammation and cell degeneration, they may even help with reducing the risk of getting brain diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.
Fetal Growth
These citrus fruits contain a tiny amount of folate which is beneficial for fetal growth in the womb. Body cells use it to split and generate more cells, which means it can make genetic material in both your and your baby’s bodies.
Keep Blood Pressure Levels in Check
The peel and juice of limes and lemons can help with lowering blood pressure. Simply squeeze some of the juice into your water after going for your daily walk. Just keep in mind that citrus can interfere with certain medications. Therefore, speak to your doctor first and never adjust your medication without his consent.
RELATED: 9 Reasons why you should eat more sweet potatoes
Chase That Cold Away
The vitamin C in citrus cannot prevent you from getting a cold, however, it can help to give your immune system a boost. Adding citrus to your diet can help you to get well sooner.
Good For Your Heart
The flavonoid content in lemons and limes can help reduce the risk of getting heart disease. This is because they assist with keeping sugars and fats in the blood at healthy levels. Remember not to overdo it though, because too much of it is not beneficial for your blood vessels.
Possible Weight Loss
A special type of antioxidant, polyphenols, present in both lemons and limes, can prevent body fat and weight gain. Scientists believe that polyphenols change the way fat is processed in the body and enhance your body’s response to insulin. You can add a splash of lemon to a glass of lukewarm water in the morning before you start the day.
Gum Health
Scurvy is a medical condition with symptoms like loose teeth, bleeding, and swollen gums. Long ago individuals who lack vitamin C in their diets often got it. Citrus is good for gum health, but do not overdo it since it can damage tooth enamel. Wait at least half an hour after drinking or eating acidic foods and drinks before brushing your teeth.
Healthy Cholesterol Levels
A daily mix of lemon juice and garlic can help those with high cholesterol levels. High cholesterol can lead to heart attacks, strokes, or heart disease, therefore, it pays to keep your cholesterol levels in check.
Keep Kidney Stones at Bay
These painful little stones can cause a lot of discomfort and pain. Kidney stones develop when minerals in the body cluster together. Lemons, limes, and other citrus fruits contain citrates which prevent mineral build-up.
Final Thoughts
I hope you found this post about the fantastic benefits of lemons and limes interesting and that I’ve convinced you to add these citrusy fruits to your diet.
Sending you lots of love, light, and immune-boosting vibes!
Anthea
A wonderful fruit with a delightful scent but a sour taste lol
A wonderful fruit indeed with so many uses. 🙂