Limes Are Refreshing and Healthy
By Paul Rothbart
Limes are an underrated fruit. The cousin of the lemon is considered by many to be a cocktail garnish. It is so much more. Limes can add a nice pop of acid and flavor to savory dishes and are a big part of Mexican cuisine. It's also a great flavor in baking. Key lime pie is a tangy and refreshing dessert. Limes can add a nice twist to ice tea and other beverages, and lime water is a good way to quench one's thirst. On top of all that, limes are nutritious and have many health benefits. Here are some good reasons to include limes in your diet.
Nutritional Content
For starters, limes are very low in calories, carbs, and fats. That alone makes them a very healthy choice of fruit. They are also very high in Vitamin C. A medium-sized lime contains 22 percent of the recommended daily allowance. Limes are rich in the minerals iron, calcium, potassium, copper, magnesium, and phosphorus. They also contain riboflavin and thiamine.
Helps Manage Diabetes
The American Diabetes Association has determined that limes, like other citrus fruits, are a superfood when it comes to diabetes. Their high levels of soluble fiber help to regulate the absorption of sugar into the bloodstream. This reduces the risk of dangerous blood sugar spikes. Limes also have a low glycemic index, which further helps to prevent spikes.
Heart Health
The soluble fiber in limes can also lower blood pressure as well as bad cholesterol levels. The fiber also reduces the inflammation of blood vessels. Limes then, promote good heart health and lessen this risk of heart attack and stroke.
Treating Respiratory Disorders
The oil extracted from limes is rich in flavonoids and used in medications that fight congestion. They also contain kaempferol, which is used in balms, inhalers, and vaporizers. By scratching a lime peel and inhaling it, one can relieve congestion and nausea.
Good for Skin
Lime juice can be used in topical applications as well as consumed. The Vitamin C and flavonoid content in limes rejuvenates skin and fights infections. Limes and their juice contain antioxidants which are effective as antibiotics and disinfectants. Lime juice also works well as a cleanser. It can be added to body washes and shampoos to increase their cleansing ability. Lime juice also reduces body odor.
When choosing fruits for their health properties, don't neglect the lime. It has the benefits of the other citrus fruits as well as a few extra of its own. Limes are not green lemons. They are unique, delicious, and healthy.
To learn more about your health, wellness and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Pleasanton, Calif.