You may not choose to suck on lemons or limes as an afternoon snack just for the fun of it, but these small fruits that are citrusy, tangy and a bit sweet at the same time are powerhouse foods. They not only bring out tangy tastes in dishes, but are one of the healthiest and most useful fruits that are cultivated. They have several health benefits from dealing with acne to getting relief from inflammatory pain, these fruits are a must have in a good diet.
Antioxidant and Antiobiotic Properties
Lemons contain flavonoid compounds that have antioxidant properties as well as anti-cancer abilities. Limes have certain flavenoids called flavenol glycosides They have been shown have good anti-bacterial properties such as a strong protective factor against cholera, but most importantly they have been shown to stop cancer cells from dividing. In addition, lemons and limes are an excellent sources of vitamin C, which is one of the most important antioxidant. Vitamin C is found in many citrus fruits and is the body’s main water-soluble antioxidant, meaning it can travel inside and outside a cell to destroy free radicals that cause inflammation which subsequently causes pain and swelling. Since these free radicals can damage blood vessels as well to change cholesterol that can build up in artery walls, the vitamin C can help prevent atherosclerosis and heart disease. Vitamin C can also boost the immune system to help fight off bacteria, parasites and other microorganisms that enter the body.
Anti-Carcinogenic
Lemons and limes contain other compounds called limonoids. These have been shown to fight cancers of the mouth, skin, breast, stomach and colon. A certain limonoid called limonin has been shown by scientists to be easily digestible and contain as much vitamin C. It is evidenced that limonin can remain active in the body much longer than the ingredients in green tea and dark chocolate. Lab tests have recently shown that limonin has the ability to decrease the potential of producing a protein that aids in the production LDL cholesterol.
Protect Against Rheumatoid Arthritis
A study conducted on more than 20,000 individuals concluded that the subjects who consumed the lowest amounts of foods that had vitamin C were three times more likely to develop arthritis. Vitamin C can protect against inflammatory polyarthritis which is a form of rheumatoid arthritis that involves two or more joints. It can also help to fight off the uric acid that is produced and causes pain in patients with gout.
Detoxification and Cleansing
Lemons contain citric acid. This can help dissolve calcium deposits, kidney stones and even gallstones. You help flush out these painful buildups from your organs as well as detoxify your liver. It can stimulate the production of bile which aids in the digestion of fats and fat-soluble vitamins. Drinking lemon water can also help dissolve uric acid which when it is in high amounts can lead to gout and kidney stones. This can also help contract your intestinal muscles to ensure a proper bowel movements and flush the wastes out.
Dermatological Factor
In addition to all the effective benefits for the body as a whole, lemons and lime can contribute to dermatology health. It has been shown to treat acne and clear clogged pores of the face. They can also help deal with dandruff, killing off the bacteria causing it. So you should apply lemons with olive or coconut oil to treat dandruff. Applying lemon to chapped lips can help remove the dead skin on the lips, so it can be used as a lip-healing remedy. If your fingernails are weak and brittle, applying a mixture of lemon and olive oil can help strengthen your nails as well as whiten them if they are discolored. Finally, whiten your skin by applying lemon daily on dark spots or blemishes.
Include Lemon in Your Diet
You should drink water mixed with lemon on a daily basis and if you drink it first thing in the morning, you will feel refreshed. Lemons and limes contain many components that are beneficial to your health. They can provide antioxidant benefits, they are anti-carcinogenic, protect against inflammatory pain, detox and cleanse your system and help people who have dandruff.