Lemons
Lemons (Citrus limon) are oval shaped fruits with a thick yellow skin, fibrous yellow flesh, and little white seeds at their center. Some forms of lemons, such as Meyer lemons, can be orange colored.
Health benefits of Lemons
- Increased Protection from Bacterial and Viral Infections
- Increased Immune Function
- Reduced Cancer Risk
- Reduced Risk of Colon Cancer
- Protection Against Heart Disease
- Regulation of Blood Sugar and Insulin Dependence
- Slowing the progression of AIDS
- Slowing Aging
- DNA Repair and Protection
- Protection Against Dementia
- Alleviation of Cardiovascular Disease
- Alleviation of Hypertension (High Blood Pressure)
- Promoted Eye Health
- Alzheimer's Protection
- Osteoporosis Protection
- Stroke Prevention
- Reduced Risk of Type II Diabetes
- Reduced Frequency of Migraine Headaches
- Alleviation of Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS)
- Antioxidant Protection
- Prevention of Epileptic Seizures
- Alleviation of the Common Cold
- Prevention of Alopecia (Spot Baldness)
- Alleviation of Inflammation
Some of these health benefits come from nutrients concentrated in this food, and may not be effects of the food itself.
How to choose Lemons
Look for firm, vibrantly colored lemons with only a light smell. Avoid any lemons which feel soft, as this is a sign they have started to rot.
How to store Lemons
The citric acid (vitamin C) in lemons is itself a preservative. Lemons stored in the fridge can last up to a month.
Climate and origin
It is unknown where lemons originated, however it is thought to be in India. Lemons are tropical fruits and thrive in zones 9-10 (in the U.S.) with some varieties hybridized to grow in colder temperate climates. (Zone 5 in the U.S.)
Taste
Lemons have a sharp acidic taste with a juicy texture.
Miscellaneous information
Grating the skin of lemons to make lemon zest is a great way to add spice and flavor to a variety of dishes. Lemon zest is also a good source of vitamin C and calcium. Click to see nutrition facts for Lemon Zest.
Similar tasting produce
Lime
Nutrition facts
| Nutrition Facts | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Serving Size | |||
| 100 grams (100g) | |||
| Calories | 47 | ||
| % Daily Value * | |||
| Total Fat 0.3g | 0% | ||
| Saturated Fat 0.04g | 0% | ||
| Trans Fat 0g | |||
| Cholesterol 0mg | 0% | ||
| Sodium 6mg | 0% | ||
| Total Carbohydrate 16g | 6% | ||
| Dietary Fiber 10.6g | 38% | ||
| Total Sugars 4.2g | 8% | ||
| Includes --g Added Sugars | --% | ||
| Protein 1.5g | 3% | ||
| Vitamin C 129mg | 143% | ||
| Vitamin D 0mcg | 0% | ||
| Iron 0.8mg | 4% | ||
| Calcium 134mg | 10% | ||
| Potassium 160mg | 3% | ||
| Phosphorus 12mg | 1% | ||
| *The % Daily Value (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice. | |||