Health Benefits of Lemon

These are known health facts regarding lemons. Whether you include them in the form of teas, juice, dressings, drinks or garnishes in your diet, or put some in the bath, make the most of the natural healing power of lemons.

• Lemons are filled with a number of beneficial nutrients. The fruit is low in calories having just 29 calories per 100g, which is one of the lowest for all citrus fruits. This is great for weightloss.
• They contain no cholesterol or saturated fats, and are a good source of fiber (7.36% of RDA). They also have a very low glycemic index.
• Lemon’s acidic taste is due to the citric acid, which constitutes up to 8% in its juice. The citric acid in lemons is a natural preservative, aids in digestion, and helps dissolve stones in the kidney.
• Lemons, like citrus fruits, are a great source of vitamin C (ascorbic acid); providing about 88% of the recommended daily intake. Ascorbic acid is a stong water soluble anti-oxidant, which helps prevent scurvy. Besides, consuming foods rich in vitamin-C aids the human body to develop a resistance against free radicals and infectious agents.
• Lemons, just like oranges, contain a variety of phytochemicals which have a bio-active effect on health as an antioxidant – ant-iinflammatory, free radical scavenger and modulates the immune system.
• Additionally, they also contain minute amounts of vitamin A, and other flavonoid anti-oxidants. The vitamin A is required for the health of skin and mucus membranes, and is also vital for vision. Consuming fruits rich in flavonoids assists the body to protect from oral cavity and lung cancers.
• Lemons are also have a good amount of B-complex such as pantothenic acid, folates, and pyrioxidine. These are essential because the body needs them from external sources to stay healthy.
• Furthermore, they contain a healthy amount of minerals such copper, iron, calcium and potassium. Potassium is an important part of body and cell fluids helps control blood pressure and heart rate.
• Citrus fruits, as such, have been valued for their nutritious and antioxidant properties. They have many proven benefits to health. Moreover, it is now starting to be appreciated that the other active, non-nutrient compounds found in citrics such as phyto-chemical antioxidants, and soluble coupled with insoluble dietary fiber is helpful in the lowering of the risk for many chronic diseases like arthritis, cancers and from coronary heart disease and obesity.

Safety Profile

Lemon juice is very low in PH, about 2.0. In some people who are sensitive, its acidic, sour juice may at times cause a burning sensation if it comes in contact with the tongue, mouth and lip ulcers. In addition to which, if taken in large quantities, may exacerbate stomach ulcer conditions and peptic acid disease.