What are the benefits of eating lemon

Lemon is rich in vitamin C, organic acids, and various minerals. Moderate consumption can help promote digestion, enhance immunity, and promote beauty and skincare. The benefits of lemon mainly include promoting iron absorption, antioxidation, regulating acid-base balance, assisting in sugar control, and improving skin condition.

1. Promote iron absorption

Vitamin C in lemon can convert non heme iron in food into a more easily absorbable form, especially suitable for vegetarians or anemic individuals. Drinking lemon water after meals can increase the utilization rate of iron in plant-based foods such as spinach and beans, but those with excessive stomach acid need to control their intake.

2. Antioxidant

Lemon contains vitamin C and flavonoids, which are natural antioxidants that can neutralize free radicals produced by oxidative stress in the body and reduce the risk of chronic inflammation. Long term moderate intake can help delay cellular aging and has certain benefits for cardiovascular health. Although lemon has a sour and astringent taste, its metabolites are alkaline and can help maintain the body's acid-base balance. For those who have a long-term high protein diet or high uric acid levels, lemon water can alkalize urine, but caution should be exercised when consuming it for those with abnormal kidney function.

4. Auxiliary sugar control

Polyphenols in lemon can delay carbohydrate breakdown and stabilize postprandial blood glucose fluctuations. When diabetes patients use lemon juice instead of some condiments, they should avoid adding extra sugar and monitor the changes of blood sugar.

5. Improving skin condition

Vitamin C participates in collagen synthesis, and can be diluted with lemon juice for external use to lighten pigmentation, but tolerance testing is required for sensitive skin. Oral administration reduces UV damage through antioxidant effects and has a better effect when combined with sun protection.

It is recommended to consume no more than one lemon per day. Drinking lemon water on an empty stomach may irritate the gastrointestinal mucosa, so it is advisable to dilute it after meals. Long term consumption in large quantities may corrode tooth enamel. After drinking, rinse your mouth with water. Special populations such as patients with gastric ulcers and low blood pressure should consult a physician. Pairing with ingredients such as honey and ginger can enhance health benefits, but total sugar intake needs to be controlled. When choosing fresh lemons, it is best to have a shiny skin and a heavy texture. After juicing, consume them as soon as possible to avoid oxidation.