side view of fresh yellow skinned lemons on a bucket with lemons isolated on a wooden table on a white a white background
Lemons are a type of citrus fruit that are native to Asia. They are produced by small, thorny trees in the genus Citrus. The scientific name for lemons is Citrus limon.
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Lemons are high in vitamin C, with one lemon containing about 31 milligrams. Vitamin C is an antioxidant that helps protect cells from damage. It also helps the body produce collagen, absorb iron, and support the immune system.
Lemons are not usually eaten fresh because of their bitter taste. They are often used to make juice, such as lemonade, and as a flavoring in cooking and baking. Lemons can also be used to make medicine to treat
Lemons have many potential health benefits. They are a good source of vitamin C, fiber, and other nutrients:
- Vitamin C
Lemons contain about 50 milligrams of vitamin C, which is more than half of the daily recommended amount. Vitamin C is an antioxidant that helps protect cells from damage. It also helps the body absorb iron, make collagen for skin, and support the immune system.
- Other nutrients
Lemons also contain vitamin B6, copper, potassium, magnesium, zinc, flavonoids, antioxidants, and phosphorus.
Lemons may also have the following health benefits:
- Support heart health
- Help control weight
- Prevent kidney stones
- Protect against anemia
- Reduce cancer risk
- Improve digestive health
- Aid digestion
- Reduce pain and swelling
- Improve blood vessel function
- Increase urination to reduce fluid retention
Lemons can also be used as a face treatment. However, you should not use lemon if you plan to be in the sun, as it can increase your risk of sunburn.
Lemon juice has many health benefits, including
- Digestion
Lemon juice can help with digestion. The citric acid in lemon juice can boost gastric acid secretion, which helps break down food. Lemons also contain soluble fiber and pectin, which can help with digestion and gut health.
- Vitamin C
Lemons are a great source of vitamin C. The juice from two to three lemons can provide half the recommended daily allowance of vitamin C.
- Antioxidants
Lemons contain flavonoids, which are antioxidants that can help prevent disease.
- Bioflavonoids
Lemons contain bioflavonoids, which can act as a natural antihistamine and prevent allergies and inflammation.
- Potassium
Lemons are a good source of potassium, which can help keep your heart healthy.
Other health benefits of lemon juice include:
- Relieving sore throats
- Preventing kidney stones
- Regulating blood sugar
- Promoting weight loss
- Helping clear skin
- Boosting the immune system
- Helping prevent asthma
- Increasing iron absorption
- Lowering the risk of stroke and lowering blood pressure
- Assisting the nervous system
