Lemon juice: Health benefits and pros and cons!

Lemons, the citrus family food product, are available worldwide. It has been an important ingredient of foods of most cultures and its sour taste adds richness to the foods. And it also has a host of health benefits and also other non-edible uses. Read on to know them all.

Lemon and its various uses

Lemon juice can be squeezed and added to food dishes for that lovely tanginess. It can be used in desserts, beverages, and also to garnish meat and fish. In the West, lemon juice is mixed with salads and also water. In Asia, it is part of the culinary practices of all households. It is used to make savory snacks and breakfast dishes. It is part of summer drinks. And also forms an essential element of the oral rehydration salt solution (ORS) that is given to people with loose motions or nausea or vomiting. The list of dishes to which lemon juice is added is endless but definitely one cannot imagine life without it.

Besides, lemon juice is a stain remover. It is a natural cleanser and also added to detergents, dish washing powders and gels, and soaps. Its oil is present in some perfumes and skin creams. Its peel also is used in some desserts and other food dishes.

Lemon juice as an antidote for cold is a natural remedy known in many cultures of the world. Mixed with ginger and honey, it does wonders against cold. There are certain anti-bacterial substances in lemon juice that can cure mouth infections such as those of the gums. It can also act as a laxative for constipation.

Lemon and its nutritional value

If we look into lemon juice and its contents, one can notice that the consumer gets just 3 calories with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice. There is no proteins or fats in it and this has just 1 gram of carbohydrates. Sugar is 0 and fiber also 0.

But like all other citrus fruits, it is rich in vitamin C. This is vital as protection against various common illnesses. It also assists in blood formation, tissue repair, bone formation, and gum health. It boosts immunity and also prevents the free radicals from causing damage to your body cells. Newer studies have said that it decreases atherosclerosis and also useful in infertility and nerve tissue problems and Alzheimers.

It also possesses other beneficial phytochemicals and thus is good for body. It also lowers blood pressure and is good for hypertensive people. Its potassium and mineral content is also helpful for the body.

Cons of lemon juice

Though loaded with a lot of benefits, lemon juice also has certain disadvantages. Many people suffer from citrus allergies. They cannot consume lemon juice and it could lead them to have pharyngitis, cough, itching or swelling of mouth, burning of mouth and throat. Some also end up with gut distress and headache.

When taken in large amounts and over a long period, its natural acids can damage the dental enamel. Lemon juice also can precipitate a migraine attack. This happens due to its high tyramine content.

If you are not allergic to lemon juice or intolerant to it, enjoy its benefits that come with a very low price tag and in a natural form!!!