#5 – Gum problems
A deficiency of Vitamin C causes a lot of gum diseases (like scurvy which is characterized by swollen and bleeding gums). Regular consumption of lemons and limes, in some form or another, is a brilliant way to keep gum diseases at bay.
#4 – Beneficial for the skin
Lime juice has been used as a bleaching agent for centuries. The antioxidant, antibiotic and disinfectant properties of lime help rejuvenate the skin and protect it from infections. Lemon peels when rubbed on dry or scaly skin, moisturize the skin, making it soft and supple. Daily consumption of lemon water can make a huge difference in the appearance of your skin. It acts as an anti-aging remedy and can remove wrinkles and blackheads.
#3 – Cholera
Lemons and limes contain many flavonoid compounds that have antioxidant properties. Particular flavonoids called flavonol glycosides also have been shown to have antibiotic effects. In several villages in West Africa where cholera (a disease triggered by activity of the bacteria called Vibrio cholera) epidemics had occurred, researchers added lime juice to the sauce eaten with rice and found that lime juice has a strong protective effect against cholera.
#2 – Protection against inflammatory disorders
Lemons and limes, being rich in antioxidants like vitamin C and flavonoids, can provide protection against inflammatory disorders like rheumatoid arthritis. According to a study of more than 20,000 subjects presented in the Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases, people who consumed the lowest amounts of vitamin C-rich foods were more than three times more likely to develop arthritis than those who consumed the highest amounts.
#1 – Eyecare
The antioxidant and antibacterial properties protect the eyes from infections and macular degeneration. In the case of conjunctivitis, you can add a few drops of warm lime-juice diluted with water.
Which one is better? Limes or Lemons?
A lime has denser flesh than a lemon which makes it heavier. But nutritionally speaking, lemons do not differ very much from limes. Both are excellent sources of vitamin C, B6, potassium, and flavonoids. Lemons have more vitamin C than limes (around one-third more) but less vitamin A and iron.
Add lime to your diet to gain all the health benefits and to get that tangy, zesty flavor in your food. Instead of just drinking plain water with your meals, add a slice of lemon to your glass or squeeze some on your food instead.
