This tart fruit and its juice can balance and heal you in a number of ways.
What It Has
Vitamin C: The nutrient helps protect cells from the damage caused by things like cigarette smoke, pollution, and UV light from the sun, according to the National Institutes of Health. It also supports wound healing and aids the absorption of iron from plant-based foods.
Expert Take
“The best thing about lemon juice is the antioxidants it contains. “says Kristin Kirkpatrick, R.D., a registered dietitian and manager of nutrition services at Cleveland Clinic’s Wellness Institute. “The high vitamin C content may enhance iron absorption and help reduce the risk of certain cancers.”
Natural Benefits of Lemons
Stabilize Your Appetite
Lemon water can prevent spikes in hunger thanks to its blood sugar-balancing pectin (a type of soluble fiber) and hydrating mojo, says Laura Neville, N.D., a naturopathic physician based in Portland, Oregon. If you are still snacky after a meal, mix 1 cup of warm water with the juice of ½ a lemon and a pinch of lemon zest (feel free to add a drizzle of raw honey)
Rev Up Your Energy
Two types of vitamins give lemons pick-me-up power. Their Vitamin C increases absorption of iron-helpful, since having too little can cause energy production, says Neville. Blend one sliced lemon (including the peel; add a little spring water (if needed), then freeze in an ice cube tray. Toss into water for a quick refresher or into a smoothie filled with iron-rich kale. Or, like I do every morning is squeeze half a lemon into a cupful of warm spring water and drink up.
Protect Your Cells
Make lemon juice your superstar flavoring-squeeze it on fish, scrambled eggs, stir-fries, and nearly anything else. In fact, it boosts more vitamin C than OJ! All that C power is a potent antioxidant, counteracting cell damage that accumulates over time and may even be a factor in problems like cancer and heart disease. Vitamin C also plays a role in synthesizing collagen, which helps cuts and scrapes heal faster.
Prevention Magazine – Healing Kitchen, The natural benefits of everyday foods
