Image by Ryan McGuire from Pixabay
I’ve had a lifelong love affair with lemons—not just the juicy pulp but the peels, too! Imagine me at a restaurant, casually sprinkling a little salt on a lemon peel and chomping away. The looks I get are priceless. Am I the only one who craves these tangy snacks? Maybe I have a vitamin deficiency, or maybe lemons are just my thing.
Why Lemons Are a Big Deal
Lemons are more than just a garnish for your water glass. They’re nutritional powerhouses, especially the peels. While most people discard the peel, it actually contains a higher concentration of nutrients than the pulp or juice.
Packed with Nutrients
Here’s what you get in 100 grams of lemon peel:
- Calories: 47 kcal
- Fiber: 10.6 grams
- Vitamin C: 129 mg (over 100% of your daily needs)
- Calcium: 134 mg
Image by svklimkin from Pixabay
Health Benefits
- Heart Health: The vitamin C and fiber in lemon peels can help reduce the risk of heart disease by lowering cholesterol levels.
- Antioxidants Galore: Lemon peels are rich in antioxidants like D-limonene, which can fight free radicals and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
- Digestive Aid: The pectin in lemon zest helps improve digestion and can prevent constipation.
- Boosts Immunity: High in antioxidants, lemon peels can give your immune system a lift, helping your body ward off infections.
- Oral Health: Thanks to their antibacterial properties, lemon peels can help keep your mouth healthy by preventing bacteria that cause cavities and gum infections.
- Bone Health: The calcium and vitamin C in lemon peels may support stronger bones, potentially reducing the risk of osteoporosis.
Beyond the Kitchen
Lemon peels aren’t just for eating. They make excellent natural cleaning agents, thanks to their antibacterial properties. Mix them with vinegar, and you’ve got a powerful, eco-friendly cleaner. I have also used them in my skin routine for years. A simple face mask made from lemon juice and milk works wonders. Just squeeze a small amount of lemon juice in about 1/4 cup of milk. Allow the mixture to curdle before applying to the face. Let the mask dry and then rinse. I also make a body scrub from sugar, lemon juice and olive oil. This is the perfect exfoliant!
My Lemon Love Affair
Lemons are a staple in my daily routine. I often snack on them solo, savoring the zestiness of the peel with a pinch of salt. Every morning starts with a refreshing glass of lemon water and cayenne, which feels like a health boost in a glass. When it comes to cooking, lemons are my secret weapon. I toss slices into soups for a tangy twist and drizzle their juice over fresh field greens as a light, citrusy salad dressing. Santiago loves lemon pepper chicken. Lemons add that perfect burst of flavor to my meals!
Whether it’s a craving or just pure love, lemons have a special place in my heart—and my diet. So, next time you see someone snacking on a lemon peel, don’t be surprised. We might be onto something delicious and nutritious!
Lisa Crow contributed to this article. She is a true crime junkie and lifestyle blogger based in Waco, Texas. Lisa is the Head of Content at Gigi’s Ramblings and Southern Bred True Crime Junkie. She spends her free time traveling when she can and making memories with her large family which consists of six children and fifteen grandchildren.
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