Key Takeaways
- Lemons and limes are nutritionally similar citrus fruits, both rich in vitamin C, antioxidants, and fiber that support immune health, digestion, and skin health.
- Lemons provide slightly more vitamin C, while limes tend to be more acidic and offer a bolder flavor.
- Both add flavor and hydration with minimal calories, but their acidity can irritate acid reflux and tooth enamel.
Lemons and limes are nutritionally very similar, though they do have some differences. Lemons contain more vitamin C and limes tend to be more acidic. Still, they each deliver a healthy dose of the vitamin C for immune support, along with bold, citrusy flavors that make them a common staple in many recipes.
Lemons vs. Limes: How Do They Compare?
Lemons and limes are very similar in many ways, but they do have some key differences:
- Appearance: Lemons are oval-shaped, with a bright yellow rind (peel) when ripe, and pale yellow flesh inside. Limes are round to oval in shape and tend to be slightly smaller than lemons. Their rind is bright green, and their flesh is pale, yellowish green. The inside of both fruits is pulpy and segmented.
- Taste: Lemons and limes have a tart, tangy, sour taste due to their high citric acid content. Lime juice is typically more acidic than lemon juice, giving it a more intense flavor. Some varieties of lime are lower in citric acid and have a sweeter flavor.
- Nutrition: Lemons have more vitamin C than limes, but both are excellent sources of vitamin C. Vitamin C is an antioxidant that supports immune health, promotes collagen production, and helps with tissue repair.
| Nutrition Comparison | ||
|---|---|---|
| 1 Lemon | 1 Lime | |
| Calories | 17 | 20 |
| Total Fat | 0 grams (g) | 0 g |
| Carbohydrates | 5 g | 7 g |
| Fiber | 2 g | 2 g |
| Total Sugars | 2 g | 1 g |
| Protein | 1 g | 1 g |
| Calcium | 1 milligram (mg) | 2 mg |
| Potassium | 2 mg | 1 mg |
| Sodium | 1 mg | 1 mg |
| Iron | 2 mg | 2 mg |
| Vitamin C | 34 mg | 22 mg |
Uses for Lemons and Limes
Unlike other citrus fruits, such as oranges, grapefruit, and tangerines, lemons and limes are not typically eaten as whole fruits. More often, the juice or zest (outer layer of the peel) is used.
Some uses for lemons and limes include:
- As an ingredient in sauces, dips, marinades, and vinaigrettes
- As a flavor enhancer for water
- Mixed with honey and warm water to soothe a sore throat (lemons more than limes)
- Added to tea (lemons more than limes)
- Used in pastries, pies, and other desserts
- As a flavor enhancer for foods such as fish, poultry, and vegetables
- As a sweetened drink, such as lemonade or limeade
- Juiced or grated (zest) into salsas, salads, dressings, and other foods
- Cut into wedges or slices and use as a garnish
Health Benefits of Lemons and Limes
Lemons and limes contain beneficial nutrients, such as:
- Vitamin C: Supports immune health, helps with wound healing and tissue growth, helps keep gums healthy
- Potassium: Helps in muscle and nerve function, and in regulating blood pressure
- Folate: Helps with red blood cell production
- Calcium: Helps support bone health, muscle function, hormone secretion, and vascular contraction
- Antioxidants: Help protect cells from damage due to oxidative stress
- Fiber: Supports heart health and digestive health
Lemons and limes may help:
- Support immune health
- Aid digestion and promote regularity
- Prevent kidney stones
- Support skin health and collagen production
- Support heart health
- Reduce inflammation
- Improve iron absorption
- Encourage hydration by making drinking water more palatable
Cautions and Considerations
Some things to consider with lemons and limes include:
- Acidity: The acidity in lemons and limes may weaken tooth enamel, which can increase the risk of tooth decay and tooth sensitivity. Contact with acid from lemons and limes may irritate mouth sores and cause stinging. People with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), acid reflux (heartburn), or stomach ulcers may find lemons and limes aggravate symptoms
- Added sugar: Added sugar, such as in lemonade or limeade, can increase calorie intake, lead to blood sugar spikes, and have other undesirable health effects
- Drug interactions: Lemons and limes may interact with certain medications, such as iron supplements, blood thinners, medications for high blood pressure, and medications for diabetes. Consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist before consuming lemons or limes regularly or in large amounts if you are taking medications.
- Sun sensitivity: A chemical (furocoumarins) on the surface of lemons and limes can increase sensitivity to the sun, leading to phytophotodermatitis (a type of sunburn and blistering).
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