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 fruits can produce limes, such as the lime tree, which is native to Southeast Asia.
This article discusses 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. They both contain antioxidants, vitamins and minerals and offer a range of health benefits.
People are also making claims about the health benefits of lemon water and the potential benefits of consuming lime 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.
They 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, anti-diabetic, anti-cancer, and neuroprotective properties. However, more research is needed to fully understand their effects on humans. Flavonoid research is still in its early stages, but early results are promising.
They contain antioxidants
Besides 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 range of chronic diseases, including diabetes, cancer and dementia. It is possible that antioxidants also help prevent the onset of these diseases. However, again, research in this area is ongoing.
They may 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 prove that lemon, or any lemon product, can cause more weight loss than adequate hydration promotes. Lemons can be part of a healthy diet that ultimately leads to weight loss, but it’s likely to be the result of reduced calorie intake, regular exercise, and other more substantial lifestyle improvements. of life.
Nutrition
Lemons and limes have a similar nutrient profile, as we detail 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 have a high citric acid content. This means that they are acidic compared to many other foods. Lemons and limes have a 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.
Uses
Lemon and lime peels are popular in cooking. Many foods and beverages contain lemons or limes due to their strong, acidic 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 rind 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 goes 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 pieces of lemon or lime 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 in 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 the essential oil of lemon and other citrus fruits 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 into contact with open wounds, such as a cut lip or canker sore. Their high acidity also means they can make heartburn or digestive problems worse in people with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). In large amounts, citric fruits can erode tooth enamel and cause cavities over time. When using cleaning products that contain citrus or other irritating chemicals, use gloves and avoid skin contact.
Summary
Lemons and limes are citric 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 beverages. 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 of GERD symptoms due to their acidity.
