Discover all the benefits of lemon

Whether in juices or seasonings, lemon is a very present fruit on the Brazilian table. Cheap, nutritious and with a very low caloric value, the fruit has long had a good reputation: it is rich in vitamins and minerals, and there are those who claim that it helps to eliminate unwanted pounds.

good fruit

Much of the benefits of lemon is linked to a substance very present in the peel, called limonene. Rich in flavonoids, the fruit is considered a powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory and helps protect the body against the destructive effects of free radicals.

According to nutritionist Paula Castilho, the fruit is also rich in vitamin C, which helps strengthen the body’s defenses and prevents diseases. Lemon is still a source of potassium, magnesium, calcium and phosphorus, vitamin B6, copper, riboflavin, pantothenic acid, vitamin A, folic acid and a variety of phytochemicals.

Among its benefits is the alkaline action of the fruit, which helps to control heartburn and stomach acidity and favors the proper functioning of metabolism, facilitating weight loss and maintenance – that is why it is known as an ally of weight loss. It also helps lower blood pressure, improves circulation, aids digestion, and even prevents some types of cancer.

varieties

There are many varieties of lemon. The Tahiti lime is the most common in Brazil. With a very green skin, it is great for lemonades and recipes.

Another very popular lemon is Galician. Small and with a yellowish rind, it is very tasty and considered the best for drinks such as caipirinhas.

The clove lemon has a very orange peel and inner part. With plenty of juice, it’s great for seasoning.

Sicilian lemon is the most consumed variety in Europe and the United States. The fruit has a very yellow skin and the juice is less acidic than other types. The aroma is smooth and ideal for extracting essences.

lemon water

For some time now, a very common practice for those who want to lose weight and lead a healthier life has become popular: water with lemon for breakfast. The recommendation is that the mixture be taken daily as soon as you wake up, about 30 minutes before breakfast.

The drink promises to decongest and detoxify the body, eliminating toxins and preventing the accumulation of liquids. To prepare, it’s very simple: just squeeze a fresh lemon in a glass of water and consume immediately.

Green juice

To activate the immune system, detoxify and prevent fluid retention, enjoy the properties of lemon in a refreshing green juice. Check out the recipes of nutritionist Denise Real:

Accelerator Juice

Ingredients:

• 1 orange
• 1 lemon
• 1 piece of unpeeled ginger (1 to 2 centimeters)
• 1 to 3 kale leaves

Peel the orange and lemon and cut in half. Blend in a blender with the ginger and a little water. Sift the mixture, add the washed and chopped cabbage and beat again.

diuretic juice

Ingredients:

• 1 glass of ice water with the juice of a squeezed lemon
• 1 small apple with skin
• 3 mint leaves

Blend everything in a blender and strain if necessary. To avoid the loss of nutrients, it is recommended to drink the juice immediately after preparation.

Bet on the lemon! Consumption of one to two units a day is enough to take advantage of the beneficial properties of the fruit. In addition to making meals tastier, its sour taste can help reduce the amount of salt and industrialized seasonings – another positive health factor.

Consult your nutritionist so that he can indicate the ideal amounts of lemon and recipes for your diet.

The information contained on this page is for informational purposes only. They do not replace the advice and follow-up of doctors, nutritionists, psychologists, physical education professionals and other specialists.