Lemons are some of the most popular citrus fruits around the world. They’re also one of the best sources of Vitamin C, which helps boost a person’s immune system, protecting them against viruses and pathogens.
There is a multitude of ways to enjoy lemons. Aside from squeezing them into a drink, you can also use it as a garnish with meals, whenever you need some freshness and acidity. You can even use it as a main ingredient in a few dishes. But did you know that this popular citrus has other benefits?
Nutritional facts about lemons
Lemons contain a minimal amount of fat as well as protein. These fruits also consist mostly of carbs and water and only have about 20 calories.
Healthline also says that lemons are primarily comprised of fibers and simple sugars such as fructose, glucose, and sucrose. Their primary fiber is also pectin. These soluble fibers are extracted by citrus juicers from the UK and can help reduce the blood sugar levels inside a person’s body by slowing down the digestion of starch and sugar.
Aside from Vitamin C, lemons also contain potassium and Vitamin B6. Consuming high amounts of potassium can help lower a person’s blood pressure level and even has a positive effect on their cardiovascular health. Meanwhile, Vitamin B6 is vital for converting food into energy.
The plant compounds in lemons are perfect for a person’s body, too. Lemons contain citric acid and hesperidin, which is an excellent antioxidant that strengthens a person’s blood vessels and prevents the buildup of fatty deposits. Another antioxidant that its plant compounds have is diosmin. You can sometimes find this antioxidant in a few drugs that help reduce chronic inflammation in a person’s blood vessels. This substance also assists in developing muscle tone.
Citrus as a weight loss staple
Since citrus contains little to no fat, calories, or sodium, it’s a perfect staple for those who want to lose weight. Even more, Health.com also says that reduced vitamin C levels in blood is linked to higher BMIs, body fat percentage, and waist circumference, too.
If you’re looking to start including citrus into your diet, you can try squeezing the juice or try grating the zest onto fish, chicken, or a salad to enhance flavor. You can also try turning the juice into a sauce or base for a salad dressing to give it some zest.
Meanwhile, some people drink lemon water a few times a day to get the right amount of nutrients from the lemon. Drinking water that has freshly squeezed lemon is an excellent source of vitamin C and plant compounds. The citric acid in lemons also reduces the risk of developing kidney stones by increasing the citrate content found in urine.
These are only a few benefits that lemons can offer. Although lemons are a refreshing fruit, you may have a difficult time eating them whole. Instead, use lemon wedges or rounds as a flavoring or as a garnish to go with your meals. If you’re interested in boosting your health, drinking lemon juice is the best way to go.
