Superfoods: Lemon

Food is the best medicine, and one proven way to improve health is through nutrition.
Superfoods are foods are high in nutrients and antioxidants and have numerous health benefits.
One of these such foods is lemon. Lemon contains vitamins: B3, B5, B6, C, and E, along with
beta carotene, folic acid, calcium, copper, iodine, iron, magnesium, manganese, phosphorus,
potassium, selenium, zinc, limonene, flavonoids, fiber, and carbohydrates.  

The vitamin C in lemon is one of the best benefits, including boosting the immune system,
wound healing, strengthening capillaries, and contributing to healthy skin and gums. Quercetin
in lemon also contributes to heart health and increasing action of vitamin C. 

Limonene, one of the active compounds found in lemon, was shown to have anti-
cancer properties. It also has antibiotic properties by slowing the rate of bacterial growth.
Limonene has also been found to strengthen and tone hair. Topically, it can be used as an
antifungal or antibiotic to treat skin infections.  

Other flavonoids found in lemon stimulate the liver and help with detoxification. These
same compounds also stimulate the gall bladder and aids in digestion. The fiber found in lemons
further helps digestion. Lemon can also impact the metabolism, encouraging weight loss. Finally,
this fruit is known to reduce kidney stones and the risk of anemia.