Ten Surprising Health Benefits of Lemons

Keeps Heart Healthy

Vitamin C present in lemon can reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke. Lemon contains high levels of dietary fiber, which lowers LDL or bad cholesterol, a risk factor for heart disease. The fiber and plant compounds in lemon lower cholesterol levels in the blood.

Helps in Weight Control

Lemon contains pectin fiber, which expands once swallowed and makes you feel full and less hungry. Lemon water supports hydration of the body and increases metabolism which is useful for weight loss and weight management.

Prevents Kidney Stones

Some studies have shown that lemon juice prevents the formation of kidney stones. Lemon contains citric acid, which improves urinary citrate levels, which prevents the formation of kidney stones.

Prevents Anemia

Lemon does not contain a large amount of iron. But the vitamin C in lemon helps your body absorb more iron from plants like green leafy vegetables. Maintaining proper iron levels helps prevent anemia.

Reduces Risk of Cancer

The antioxidants in lemon prevent free radicals from damaging cells. A compound called D-limonene in lemon has anti-carcinogenic properties. Some studies have found that people who consume citrus fruits like lemon have a lower risk of pancreatic and colon cancer.

Improves Digestive Health

Lemon contains a high amount of dietary fiber. Fiber, especially soluble fiber, helps ease constipation and many other gastrointestinal issues and discomfort. Lemons contain high levels of citric acid, which stimulates the production of stomach acid and aids in the digestion of food.

Boosts Energy Level

The potassium in lemon helps with brain and nerve function and keeps you alert. It can also reduce anxiety and depression. The electrolytes and potassium present in lemon hydrate your body. Vitamin C present in lemon reduces fatigue and boosts mood.

Boosts Immunity

Vitamin C and antioxidants present in lemon boost your immunity. Lemon can fight cold and flu. A glass of warm water with lemon juice and a teaspoon of honey provides relief from cough, cold and flu. Lemon also helps with H1N1 swine flu, ringing in the ears and Meniere's disease.

Reduces Joint Pains

Lemon removes the uric acid present in your joints, which is one of the main causes of pain and swelling in your joints. Warm lemon water in the morning can give you relief from knee and joint pain.

Improves Skin and Hair

Vitamin C plays an important role in the formation of collagen. Collagen protects the skin from sagging and prevents wrinkles. Lemon can exfoliate blackheads and helps in removing them. It helps in reducing the appearance of age spots. The antioxidants and vitamin C present in lemon prevent acne from growing. Drinking warm lemon water in the morning helps in flushing out toxins from the body.

If you have dry and frizzy hair, lemon juice can make your hair shiny and silky. Lemon juice is rich in folic acid and vitamin C, which reduce oil and dandruff. Regular use of lemon juice strengthens hair follicles and promotes hair growth.