Lemons are highly beneficial to our bodies. This is because they are rich in calcium, fiber, potassium, and vitamin C. All of these things are essential for a body to function smoothly. It is little wonder then that a glass of lemon detox water in the morning is recommended as a natural, healthy, and tasty way to start the day. Read on to learn about the surprising health benefits of lemons!
A glass of lemon detox water in the morning gives our metabolism a boost and helps flush toxins from the body. The antibacterial and medicinal properties provided by lemons are important for good health. The following are a few examples of the surprising health benefits of the humble lemon.
Helps the body fight cancer
Lemons are an excellent source of vitamin C. This vitamin helps to prevent the formation of free radicals. Free radicals are unstable molecules. These unstable molecules can harm cells in the body. When cells are damaged in this way they can turn cancerous.
For this reason, a glass of fresh lemon water is always recommended.
Can help fight asthma and boosts the immune system
People that regularly ingest vitamin C are at a reduced risk of developing asthma than those who do not include vitamin C in their diet. Because lemons are a great source of vitamin C, it is quite easy to make sure that you get enough. There are other sources of vitamin C, and it can be found in most fruit and leafy vegetables.
The immune system boosting benefits of vitamin C cannot be overstated either. A stronger immune system is essential in preventing disease and fighting germs.
Among the health benefits of lemons is toxin removal and improved blood pressure
Because lemons are very acidic, they can help the body to naturally remove toxins. The human body accumulates many toxins. If allowed to build up, these toxins can lead to several ailments.
A study in 2014 discovered that women in Japan, who walked on a regular basis and ingested lemon every day, had lower blood pressure than those who did not.
More research is required to understand the link between lemons and blood pressure, but the evidence is there that it helps.
It increases iron absorption
Iron deficiency is a leading cause of anemia. By combining foods that are high in vitamin C, with foods rich in iron, maximizes the body’s ability to absorb iron.
Caution is recommended though since ingesting high amounts of vitamin C can lead to gastrointestinal issues in people that are taking iron supplements. Therefore it is best to get your iron from foods such as beef liver, spinach, lentils, raisins, etc.
It may help you lose weight
If overeating is an issue, then lemons could be the answer you are looking for. Pectin, which can be found in the pulp and peel of citrus fruits like lemons, has been shown to help people feel full for longer.
Those that ate just 5 grams of pectin experienced more satiety, according to a study that has been published in the Journal of the American College of Nutrition.
Helps to fight inflammation
Regular inflammation is important for the body’s immune response in fighting off things like colds. That said, chronic inflammation can lead to weight gain, fatigue, mood swings, and even cancer.
Luckily, vitamin C has antioxidant properties that have been proven to reduce inflammation. A study published in the Indian Journal of Clinical Biochemistry found that vitamin C was found to be beneficial during inflammatory conditions – including protecting immune cells.
Health Benefits of Lemons
There is far more to lemons than making lemonade. The surprising health benefits of lemons are enough to help maintain a healthy body, so long as other factors are taken into consideration too.
Image Credits: Pexels.com
