Limes offer a surprising variety of positive effects on one’s health regardless of their diminutive size, and now that summer has arrived, they make an excellent complement to snacks, beverages, and main courses alike. Lime, like its close relative the lemon, contains a significant amount of vitamin C, which is one of the most vital naturally occurring antioxidants. They are a unique source of flavonoid chemicals, which are known to possess anti-cancer and antioxidant capabilities. The antibiotic properties of these compounds have also been investigated. Lime juice is incorporated into the day’s main meal in West African villages that have experienced cholera epidemics. It has been proven to be protective against catching the disease, hence it is added to the meal.
Vitamin C is an essential component in the maintenance of a healthy immune system. Because the immune system’s primary function is to prevent illness, taking a little bit of extra vitamin C may be beneficial in treating disorders such as the common cold, influenza, and recurring ear infections. Lime juice is loaded with limonins, which have been shown to decrease inflammation and cut down on the likelihood of acquiring long-term health conditions. Citrus fruits like limes contain citric acid, which can aid in minimizing the production of certain kinds of kidney stones. In addition, limes have trace levels of riboflavin, folate, and phosphorus in their composition. Lime and other foods that are strong in vitamin C can aid in preventing iron deficiency anemia by enhancing the body’s ability to absorb iron from plant-based sources like other fruits and vegetables.
What are the medical advantages of Limes?
Although limes share many of the same nutritional advantages as other citrus fruits, they are typically neglected in favor of more well-known varieties. Pectin, which is found in limes, is known to reduce cholesterol levels and hence contribute to a healthy heart. In addition to lowering the possibility of diabetes, the pectin in limes helps with digestion and maintains steady blood sugar levels. In addition, citric acid in limes has been shown to reduce the risk of developing kidney stones. The skin benefits from using limes. Investigations show that collagen, a protein that successfully expands the skin and minimizes the start of wrinkles, is produced in the skin with the help of vitamin C. In addition, lime juice’s antimicrobial characteristics make it an effective treatment for acne.
Lime juice is another natural bleaching agent that can help fade black spot discoloration. Need your hair to be dandruff-free, lustrous, and healthy? Apply lime juice to your hair and wait two to three hours before rinsing. Furthermore, the antioxidant qualities of limes help maintain healthy eyes and protect against macular degeneration.
Even though limes don’t contain much iron, they can still aid in curing anemia thanks to the vitamin C in them. Furthermore, vitamin C has been shown to have antiviral and antibacterial effects, making it useful in the battle against viruses like influenza and the usual cold. Asthma is less likely to develop as a result. To begin, lime juice has antibacterial and parasitic properties. Lime consumption has also been linked to a decrease in sickle cell anemia-related pain and an improvement in arterial health. Lime consumption, along with that of other citrus fruits, has been linked to numerous health benefits. The advantages of lime juice can be enjoyed simply by adding a squeeze to your everyday drinks and meals.
Following are the medical advantages of limes
Full of antioxidants
In order to protect your cells from damage caused by free radicals, antioxidants are crucial substances. Long-term illnesses like diabetes, cardiovascular illness, and various forms of cancer have all been related to free radical damage in the body. The active chemicals in limes serve as antioxidants in the body.
Might strengthen defenses
Vitamin C, which is abundant in limes, has been shown to improve immunological function. White blood cells are an important line of defense against illnesses and infections, and vitamin C has been shown to boost their synthesis in laboratory settings. Vitamin C has been shown to reduce cold symptoms and their intensity in human trials. Furthermore, vitamin C may hasten wound healing by decreasing aggravation and increasing collagen formation. Collagen is a crucial protein that speeds up the healing of wounds. In addition to vitamin C, limes are rich in antioxidants, which protect your cells from free radical damage and so boost your immune system.
Possible skin-health booster
Several components of limes may help maintain skin health. To begin with, they have a lot of vitamin C. Collagen, a protein responsible for the elasticity and strength of your skin, cannot be synthesized without this vitamin. Over 20% of the DV can be met by eating just one medium-sized lime (67 grams). Over four thousand women participated in one study, which indicated that those who consumed more vitamin C had a reduced risk of developing wrinkles and dry skin as they got older. Second, the antioxidant content of limes suggests they may be useful in delaying the visible signs of aging. When your body lacks sufficient amounts of antioxidants, you’ll experience oxidative stress. It can hasten the onset of aging symptoms. Many of these symptoms, such as wrinkles and low collagen formation, were found to be positively impacted by consuming citrus juice in mouse research.
Reduces the potential for cardiac disease
Worldwide, cardiovascular illness is the number one killer. There is some evidence that eating limes can lower your chance of developing heart disease. To begin, limes have a lot of vitamin C, which, according to one earlier study, can assist with lowering elevated blood pressure. One of the leading causes of cardiovascular illness is high blood pressure. The buildup of plaque in the arteries, a condition known as atherosclerosis, can cause blood flow restriction, but vitamin C may help prevent this. The development of atherosclerosis in rabbits was slowed when they were fed lime peels and juice, according to animal research.
Could help avoid kidney stones
Kidney stones are tiny mineral crystals that can cause excruciating discomfort when passed. Stones may develop in the kidneys when there is too much calcium in the urine or if the urine is excessively strong. The citric acid in citrus fruits like limes can help avoid kidney stones by increasing citrate content and trapping the minerals that form stones in the urine. Citrus fruit eaters were shown to have a far decreased chance of developing kidney stones.
Helps the body absorb iron better
The production of red blood cells and the transportation of oxygen throughout the body rely on the mineral iron. Iron deficiency anemia occurs when there is not enough iron in the blood. Fatigue, difficulty breathing during exertion, pallor, and dry skin and hair are all symptoms of iron deficiency anemia. It is more common in vegans and vegetarians because the iron in plant foods isn’t as easily digested as the iron in meat and other animal items. Lime juice and other vitamin C-rich meals may aid in the digestion of iron from plant sources, reducing the risk of iron deficiency anemia. A single investigation in vegetarians revealed that iron absorption was improved by as much as 70% when participants drank a glass of lemonade with their plant-based diet.
Possible protection against some malignancies
Uncontrolled cell proliferation is the defining feature of cancer. Certain cancer risks may be reduced by consuming citrus fruit components. Antioxidants like flavonoids have been linked to inhibiting the activity of genes that cause cancer growth. Citrus fruits have shown promise in inhibiting the development and metastasis of a variety of cancers in laboratory settings.
What are the adverse effects of limes?
Consuming limes often does not pose any health risks and is associated with very few, if any, negative consequences. Lime allergies can produce indications that include swelling, hives, and breathlessness. If you are sensitive to other citrus fruits, however, you should avoid limes because they can trigger your reaction. In the event that this takes place, seek emergency medical attention.
Due to the high acid content of limes and lime juice, it is possible for some individuals to suffer from acid reflux after consuming limes or sipping lime juice. The sensation of heartburn, feeling sick, throwing up, and trouble swallowing are some of the other digestive symptoms that may be present. Because of its high acid content, limes should only be consumed in small amounts. Lime acid, like the acid found in other citrus fruits, can wear away tooth enamel, which can lead to an increased risk of cavities if you consume a lot of limes. After consuming limes or consuming lime juice, you should always make sure to rinse your mouth out with some plain water so that you can protect your teeth.
When limes are applied straight to the skin, it can sometimes induce irritation and make the skin more vulnerable to the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) radiation. This condition is referred to as phytophotodermatitis.
A Guide to Using Limes
There is an infinite number of methods, both inside and outside of the cooking area, for using limes. One of the many reasons why they are regarded as a necessary component in the cooking of both Southeast Asian and Mexican dishes is because of the high value placed on their juice and the sweet floral fragrance of their zest. Lime slices are frequently pickled in other regions of the world, such as India, to extend the length of time the limes can be stored before being used to enhance the flavor of food. Key lime pie, cookies, and ice cream are just some of the sweets and baked items that frequently call for lime zest and liquid as an ingredient.
This citrus-flavored fruit can also be utilized in the preparation of savory foods and may be utilized to impart flavor to refreshments, both alcoholic and nonalcoholic alike. Lime is a natural deodorizer and cleaning agent that may be utilized in other areas of your home besides the kitchen. There is evidence from a few separate investigations that they have antibacterial characteristics. Lime juice, vinegar, and water can be combined in a spray bottle and used as a non-toxic alternative to traditional surface cleaners. You can find limes at the majority of supermarkets, and you may frequently find them placed close to lemons. Pick citrus fruits that have a weighty feel despite their size, have a vivid color, and have very little deterioration on them.
The Bottom Line
Lime consumption has been linked to numerous health benefits, including enhanced immunity, reduced risk of cardiovascular illness, averted kidney stones, better iron absorption, and glowing skin. If you have an allergy to citrus fruits, limes should be avoided. However, for the vast majority of individuals, these citrus fruits are a beneficial and adaptable component of a well-rounded diet, so give limes a try in your cooking. Lime water could help those who have problems consuming the recommended daily quantity of water. They not only have more flavor but also more nutrients, which may have more health advantages. However, regular lime water use may increase the likelihood of experiencing these medical advantages.
Lime water is simple to make and may be incorporated into the diet of nearly anyone.
Sirisha B