Lemons and limes (limes) are types of citrus fruits with very similar nutrient profiles and health benefits. However, there are also some differences between them.
Lemons come from a small evergreen tree native to Southeast Asia. Several types of citrus can produce limes, such as the linden, which is native to Southeast Asia.
This article looks at the similarities and differences between these fruits, including their health benefits, nutritional content, and usage.
health benefits
Lemons and limes have a long history of use in traditional medicine. Both contain antioxidants, vitamins and minerals and offer a variety of health benefits.
People are also making claims about the health benefits of lemon water and the potential benefits of consuming lemon juice. Lemons and limes have several common health benefits, as they share the following properties:
They contain a lot of vitamin C.
Lemons and limes are high in vitamin C, an important antioxidant that helps protect cells from damage. Vitamin C also helps the body absorb iron from food and supports the immune system. The body also uses vitamin C in the production of collagen, an important substance for wound healing.
contain flavonoids
Both lemons and limes contain flavonoids. Flavonoids are phytochemicals that may have several health benefits (Trusted Source), including heart disease and metabolic disorders. Animal and cell studies have suggested that flavonoids have anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, anticancer, and neuroprotective properties. However, more research is needed to fully understand its effects in humans. Research on flavonoids is still in its early stages, but early results are promising.
contain antioxidants
In addition to vitamin C, lemons and limes also contain other antioxidants. Antioxidants help protect the body against cell damage, which appears to play a role in a variety of chronic diseases, including diabetes, cancer, and dementia. Antioxidants may also help prevent the onset of these diseases. However, again, research in this area is ongoing.
They can promote weight loss over time.
Some sources claim that consuming lemon or lemon products can help with weight loss. For example, lemon water is a mixture of fresh lemon juice and water and is part of some weight loss diets. However, there is currently no scientific evidence to show that lemon, or any lemon product, can cause more weight loss than adequate hydration. Les citrons peuvent faire partie d’un régime alimentaire sain qui conduit finally à une parte de poids, mais cela will probably be the result of a réduction of l’apport calorie, d’un exercice régulier et d’autres améliorations plus substantialles du mode of life.
Nutrition
Lemons and limes have a similar nutrient profile, as detailed in the table below. These nutrients reflect what is present in a whole lemon or lime, not its juice.
1 lemon, 84 g 1 lime, 67 g
Calories 24.4 20.1
Protein 0.92g 0.47g
Fat 0.25g 0.13g
Carbohydrates 7.83g 7.06g
Sugars 2.1g 1.13g
Fiber 2.35g 1.88g
Vitamins and minerals
Calcium 21.8mg 22.1mg
Potassium 116mg 68.3mg
Vitamin C 44.5mg 19.5mg
Folate 9.24mcg 5.36mcg
The nutritional benefits of lemons and limes are the same. Although lemon contains slightly more of certain vitamins and minerals, the difference is too small to have any effect.
Acidity
Both lemons and limes are high in citric acid. This means that they are acidic compared to many other foods. Lemons and limes have very similar citric acid content, although lemons can contain a bit more on average:
Lemon juice contains approximately 48 grams of citric acid per liter (g/L).
Lime juice contains approximately 45.8 g/L.
Applications
Lemon and lime peels are popular in the kitchen. Many foods and drinks contain lemons or limes because of their strong sour taste. This can be in the form of juice or freshly squeezed, or in the form of pieces or slices of the fruit. For example, the juice or peel of both fruits can be used to flavor sauces, marinades, and dressings.
Lemon and thyme are also a good combination for marinating chicken and fish. Lime pairs well with garlic, as well as chili powder for marinating meats. Lemons and limes are good additions to many hot or cold drinks. For example, you can add lemon or lime wedges to water to make lemon water, or use lemon or lime to flavor teas. Due to their high acidity, these citrus fruits are also effective at killing bacteria. That’s why there’s a whole range of citrus-based cleaning products, from bleaches to surface cleaners. Additionally, some studies have shown that lemon and other citrus essential oil can improve mental state through inhalation and aromatherapy, exert antimicrobial properties, and reduce skin inflammation through topical application of the bark.
risks
Consuming lemons or limes in moderate amounts is generally safe. However, these fruits can cause stinging pain when they come in contact with open wounds, such as a cut lip or canker sore. Their high acidity also means they can worsen heartburn or digestive problems in people with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). In large amounts, citrus fruits can erode tooth enamel and cause cavities over time. When using cleaning products that contain citrus or other irritating chemicals, wear gloves and avoid skin contact.
Resume
Lemons and limes are citrus fruits with a very similar nutritional profile. They are high in vitamin C and contain other health-promoting antioxidants and flavonoids. These two fruits are common ingredients in a variety of foods and drinks. Their acidity also makes them interesting in cleaning products. Both fruits are safe to eat in moderate amounts, but they can cause minor problems in some people, such as worsening GERD symptoms due to their acidity.
* HealthKey strives to convey health knowledge in a language accessible to all. In NO EVENT can the information provided replace the opinion of a health professional.
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