What’s so great about Lemons…

Why are lemons involved in so many recipes?

Everyone knows that lemons are high in vitamin C and that vitamin C is a powerful immune boosting nutrient but along with B6, potassium and folic acid, lemons are a very rich source of phyto-nutrients.

Phyto-nutrients are natural chemical compounds found in all plants. Every day we are discovering more and more interesting facts about their anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer effects on our body when ingested and it is in the skin of the lemon that one potent type of phytonutrient is found – Limonene.

Limonene has many health benefits, one of which is its anti-cancer effect. Limonene also supports de-toxification pathways in our liver which in turn helps to dissolve gallstones.

The highest concentration of Limonene is in the white pith which is so often tossed out into the compost bin. Next time you squeeze a lemon add the zest and rind to what ever you are making for taste and health. Throw in the whole organic lemon and blitz away all manner of nasties but please remember to use only the skins of organic un-waxed lemons as non organic lemons carry too high a toxic burden due to the pesticide and preservative cocktails added to it during growth and later for extending its shelf life.

I think lemons are quite the super food actually so that’s why I throw them into everything!

Colette McMahon, Nutritional Therapist with True Food Academy

Sep 24, 2015 | Posted by in Blog | Comments Off on What’s so great about Lemons…