Limes, a tiny citrus fruit native to Asia, provide a variety of nutritional benefits.
According to the United States Department of Agriculture, a 2-inch lime contains around 20 calories. It also provides:
– Contains 22 mg of calcium, 12 mg of phosphorus, and 68 mg of potassium.
– 19.5 milligrammes of vitamin C, which is approximately 22% of the daily required amount for adults.
In addition to their nutritional value, lime water may give a number of possible benefits.
1. Encourages water consumption
According to the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), adding a squeeze of lime to water might improve its flavour, thereby encouraging individuals who struggle to drink enough water to drink more.
2. May lower cancer risk
According to studies, eating citrus fruits reduces your risk of developing some cancers.
A 2015 meta-analysis published in *Medicine* suggested a link between higher citrus fruit consumption and a lower risk of esophageal cancer.
Furthermore, eating more citrus fruits was linked to a 9% lower risk of lung cancer.
However, more study is required to corroborate these findings across different forms of cancer.
3. Promotes skin health
Limes contain a high concentration of vitamin C, which is required for collagen production and skin health.
A study in *Clinical, Cosmetic, and Investigational Dermatology* found that drinking plenty of water could enhance skin moisture and look.
Adding lime to water might further help skin health, while direct scientific research are scarce.
4. May aid in weight loss
The link between water consumption and weight loss is still being investigated.
While evidence exists, the causes for this association are not completely understood.
Citrus fruits, especially limes, contain bioactive chemicals that may aid with weight management, although additional research is required.
5. Improves immune function.
Vitamin C is essential for a healthy immune system.
The body cannot synthesise vitamin C, thus it must be received from diet.
Regular drinking of lime water can help promote immunological health and potentially shorten the duration of colds and flu, while data is limited.
6. Potential Heart Disease Benefits
According to the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention, a fruit-rich diet, especially citrus fruits like limes, is beneficial to heart health.
A 2020 review in the *Journal of the American Heart Association* concluded that consuming more fruit, particularly citrus fruits, is related with a decreased risk of heart disease.
Additional clinical investigations are required to better understand this link.
7. Possible anti-inflammatory properties
Limes are high in vitamin C, which is known for its anti-inflammatory properties. Citrus fruits’ bioactive components may also help with immune function and inflammation management.
However, additional carefully designed human trials are required to investigate these possible benefits.
8. May prevent kidney stones
Limes include citric acid and vitamin C, which have been demonstrated in studies to help break up or prevent certain types of kidney stones.
The National Kidney Foundation emphasises the importance of proper hydration in preventing kidney stones, and lime water can be an efficient way to satisfy fluid intake recommendations.
Overall, adding lime to your diet, particularly in the form of lime water, may provide a variety of health benefits while also boosting hydration.
How To Make Lime Water
Making lime water is simple and basic.
1. Prepare the Lime: Prior to cutting a fresh lime, properly wash it.
2. Squeeze the Juice: Fill a glass with water, then squeeze the lime juice into it.
3. For Larger Quantities: If you want to make lime water ahead of time, fill a pitcher with water and squeeze in the juice of two or three entire limes.
4. Enhance Flavour: To add more flavour, add lime slices to the pitcher.
5. Consume Quickly: For the best taste, drink the lime water within one day.