Amazing Facts about Lemons

Rebecca Lewis August 15, 2013

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Lemon is a very common kitchen must-have. This versatile fruit is used for both culinary purposes such as baking, cooking and grilling, as well as non-culinary purposes like cleaning, treating skin problems, revitalising hair, and so on. So why should you incorporate lemon on your diet? Below are the top reasons why.

It’s high in vitamin C.

Citrus fruits like lemons and oranges are loaded with the mother of all vitamins – vitamin C. This essential nutrient plays a number of roles in your health. It works as an antioxidant, helping flush away the cell-damaging toxins from your body. It also aids in the production of collagen which is needed to form new bones, blood vessels, ligaments and tendons. A 100-gram serving of lemon gives you 53 milligrams of vitamin C, which is 88 per cent of your daily body requirement!

It whitens your teeth.

Why spend a fortune in teeth whitening treatments if you could make your own? Mix lemon with baking soda until you form a bubbly solution. Then, apply it on your teeth and leave it for just a minute then rinse. Remember that the acid in lemon is too strong to remove enamel from your teeth so just stick to one minute.

It gets rid of oily skin.

Too much oil in your skin could make you more vulnerable to pimples, acne and other embarrassing skin problems. Applying lemon extract on your face using a cotton swab before going to bed is a great natural treatment. Wash it off in the morning. Drinking lemon juice or adding lemon extract to your dish will also help you develop a healthier, young-looking skin all over because they help the liver remove toxins by simulating its natural enzymes.

It balances your PH level.

Lemons may be acidic in taste but they are actually alkaline-forming fruits that help keep your PH levels balanced.

It boosts electrolytes in your body.

Lemons are a good source of electrolytes like potassium, calcium and magnesium. Electrolytes help keep your energy levels high by keeping you hydrated and regulating the smooth functioning of your internal organs.

It strengthens your immune system.

Vitamin C is important for a healthy immune system. Taking the recommended daily dose of this power vitamin can lower your risk of developing illnesses, including flu and infections.

It keeps your blood flowing.

Lemons are super rich in flavonoids – essential compounds that do not only boost the potency of vitamin C but also improve blood flow. This helps you maintain a normal blood pressure and reduces your risk of inflammation.

It gives you extra protection from cancer.

Lemons contain modified citrus pectin and limonoids, which according to studies, have the ability to prohibit the spread of cancer cells, slow cancer cell growth and induce cancer cell death.

More Amazing Facts about Lemons

Although its a little too sour to eat on its own, the flesh of lemons have powerful citrus fragrance and tartness that makes them a great addition to a wide range of foods, including cakes, cookies, pies and breads. When shopping for lemons, look for unblemished and firm ones that feel heavy for their size. Avoid pale lemons because that means they are older and have less juice. If you’re looking to prepare some refreshing lemon juice, choose those that have a smooth, thin skin. If you intend to use the zest, make sure to choose unwaxed lemons. If you can’t find any, scrub them thoroughly before zesting. It is best to store lemons in the fridge to maintain their freshness. Once cut, wrap the lemon in cling film and store it in the fridge. It should last for four days. When cooking, consider using fresh lemon wedges with fish for a more delicious flavour. You can also add them to the pan when roasting vegetables or meat. Use the zest for making salad dressings, marinades, condiments and sauces, and in making aromatic homemade cupcakes. You can also use its flesh and peel in marmalades and preserves.

Lemons are available all year round so make sure you always have them in your kitchen!