The Hidden Health Benefits of Limes
While the health benefits of citrus fruits like oranges and lemons are more commonly celebrated, limes are often overlooked.
Limes are an excellent source of antioxidants and vitamins, and contain vitamins A, B, C, and D. An average sized lime contains 20 calories, 0.47 grams of protein, 0.13 grams of fat, 7.06 grams of carbohydrates, 1.9 grams of fibre and 19.5 milligrams of vitamin C in addition to tiny amounts of iron, potassium, zinc, and calcium.
Yup, that’s a multivitamin in one little lime! In fact, one lime provides 32% of the vitamin C you need in one day. Their rich vitamin C content is known to help reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke, and the potassium in them can help to lower blood pressure.
Health Benefits of Limes
Limes also contain pectin, which is known to lower cholesterol levels, also contributing to having a healthier heart. The pectin in limes also aids digestion and keeps blood sugars stable, reducing the risk of diabetes and colon cancer.
Limes, like all other citrus fruits, contain a nutrient in their peel called d-limonene, which helps to relieve indigestion and is known to help to prevent cancer. Moreover, the citric acid in limes is proven to help prevent kidney stones from forming.
Limes are great for the skin. According to studies, vitamin C helps your skin to produce collagen, which is a protein that effectively plumps the skin and reduces the onset of wrinkles.
Plus, lime juice has antibacterial properties that are known to help to cure acne. Lime juice is also a natural bleaching agent and can help to reduce the appearance of dark spots. Want shiny, healthy, and dandruff-free hair? Put lime juice on your hair and rinse after 2-3 hours. Lime juice also boosts hair growth.
Limes are also great for our vision, as their antioxidant properties protect eyes from ageing and prevent against macular degeneration.
They can also aid weight loss and the polyphenols in them may help to reduce abdominal fat.
One largely unknown benefit of limes is that, even though they aren’t iron-rich, they can help to cure anaemia, as their vitamin C content can help to increase the level of iron your blood is able to absorb. Plus, vitamin C is known for it’s immune boosting properties to help fight illnesses such as the flu and the common cold. In turn, this helps to reduce the risk of developing asthma.
The anti-inflammatory properties of lime also help to dissolve uric acid which in turn can help to reduce the symptoms of arthritis.
While many of the benefits of limes are shared with other citrus fruits, there are some health benefits that are exclusive to the consumption of limes.
Firstly, lime juice can help to fight against parasites and bacteria. Secondly, studies show that limes reduce the levels of pain associated with sickle cell anaemia and help to keep your arteries healthy.
The health benefit of consuming limes and other citrus fruit is extensive. Consider adding a squeeze of lime juice to your drinks and dishes daily to reap the benefits!
