Love Citrus? Try Adding Limes to Your Diet for Increased Health Benefits

Everyone loves the zest on key lime pie, the bright lime garnish on a tropical drink, and the smooth, citrus flavor of a light sorbet. But did you know limes have countless benefits that help improve your immunity, maintain blood sugar, and aid in digestion?

Limes are a hybrid citrus fruit that are roughly 3-6 cm in diameter. It is believed that wild limes first grew in Southeast Asia and were soon transported globally. When scurvy rose to fame in the 19th century, both lemons and limes were used to treat the Vitamin C deficiency that plagued the sailors. Today, lime's bright, floral aroma is used to add a zing to salads, beverages, meats, pies, guacamole, and alcoholic drinks.

The exhaustive health benefits of limes tend to be overlooked when compared with lemons. The two fruits share almost identical nutritional profiles, showcasing considerable quantities of Vitamin C, Vitamin B6, potassium, folate, and beneficial antioxidants. Antioxidants prevent oxidation of harmful and damaging free radicals in the body- which is why many super-foods have antioxidants in them!

Vitamin C is great for boosting immunity and preventing sickness, while potassium is a common electrolyte used in the body's sodium-potassium pump. Folate is an essential dietary nutrients that can treat anemia and prevent birth defects in women. Lemon and lime juice have qualities similar to our own digestive juices, helping to aid in digestion and minimize bloating. Lastly, the soluble fiber present in lemons and limes can help maintain blood sugar in diabetics and lower blood pressure in the body.

So now that you have learned a little about limes, try the lime recipes linked in this article to help boost immunity, provide essential nutrients, and improve digestion!