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Lime Benefits

What are the benefits of drinking lime water?

Drinking adequate amounts of water with lime may provide some benefits, such as aiding weight management, skin health, and helping prevent kidney stones.

The body needs water to survive, and drinking enough is crucial for maintaining optimal health.
Water ensures the human body is adequately hydrated. People stay hydrated by drinking liquids and consuming foods with high water content.
The amount of water a person needs to drink varies according to:

their age

their sex

the amount of physical activity they do

whether or not they are pregnant or breastfeeding

the temperature and other environmental factors

whether or not a person has a fever, diarrhea, or vomiting

Many people do not drink enough water.
Some people may find that a squeeze of lime improves the taste of water, encouraging them to drink more of it. By drinking lime water, people can also take advantage of the many health benefits it offers.
8 potential benefits of lime water

Lime nutritional facts

Though small, limes are loaded with nutrients — particularly vitamin C.

Here’s a basic nutritional overview of lime (per 100 grams) presented in tabular form:

Nutrient	Amount per 100 grams
Calories	30
Water	88%
Protein	0.7 g
Carbohydrates	9.3 g
Sugars	1.7 g
Dietary Fiber	2.8 g
Fat	0.2 g
Vitamins and Minerals
Vitamin C	29.1 mg (31% DV)
Vitamin A	50 IU (1% DV)
Calcium	33 mg (3% DV)
Iron	0.6 mg (3% DV)
Potassium	102 mg (2% DV)
Magnesium	6 mg (2% DV)
Phosphorus	18 mg (2% DV)

These values are approximate and can vary based on factors such as the specific variety of lime and growing conditions. Keep in mind that the nutritional content may change when consuming lime juice or zest, as opposed to the whole fruit.

In addition to the nutritional value of limes, lime water may have the following benefits:
1. Promotes water consumption

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) suggest that people who do not drink enough water could add a squeeze of lime or lime wedge to enhance the flavor, which may encourage them to drink more water throughout the day.
2. Might reduce the risk of certain cancers

Several studies show a link between citrus fruit, such as limes, and a reduced risk of some types of cancer. A 2015 meta-analysis of observational studies published in Medicine showed a possible link between increased citrus fruit consumption and a diminished risk of esophageal cancer.
Researchers have also demonstrated that people with the highest intakes of citrus fruit, compared with those with the lowest, experienced a 9% reduction in lung cancer risk.
However, scientists require more research on citrus fruit intake across different cancer types, including when people add lime to water, before they can make definitive conclusions.
3. Could play a role in overall skin health

Limes are an excellent source of vitamin C. Vitamin C is an antioxidant that the body needs to make collagen, which is a compound involved in supporting overall skin health.
According to a study in the journal Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, researchers suggest that drinking higher amounts of water (more than 13 cups per day) may have positive effects on skin hydration and appearance.
Not only does adding lime to water make it easier to drink, but the combination of water and lime juice can help improve the appearance and health of the skin. While medical professionals commonly understand the health benefits of both lime and water, they currently do not have any supporting scientific studies.
4. Might support weight loss

Several studies have looked at the relationship between drinking water and weight loss. While there is some scientific evidence in support of this link, scientists are unclear why this relationship exists and suggest they need further research.
A review paper from 2019 on drinking water and weight loss confirms that the current evidence on water and weight loss is low to moderate in quality.
Citrus fruits, such as limes, may have bioactive compounds that could help control weight, but doctors require further research to better understand the role limes and water may play in promoting weight loss.
5. Could help support immune function

The body needs vitamin C to support the normal functioning of the immune system. A person’s body cannot make vitamin C on its own so they must get it from foods or other sources. One lime contains 19.5 mg of vitamin C.
When a person consumes it regularly, lime water can help strengthen the body’s defenses and may shorten the lifespan of colds and cases of flu, although there is limited scientific evidence to support this.
6. Might contribute to a lower risk of heart disease

According to the CDC, following a healthy eating pattern that contains fresh fruit, including citrus fruits such as limes, is important for preventing heart disease and its complications.
Researchers recently addressed this in a 2020 systematic review and meta-analysis of observational studies in the Journal of the American Heart Association.
Findings from this study suggest that higher total fruit intake has links with a lower risk of heart disease, and the researchers saw greater benefits specifically for citrus fruits among other fruit and vegetable sources.
Scientists need additional clinical studies to confirm the role that citrus fruits, such as limes, play in reducing the risk of heart disease.
Because drinking enough water daily is important for normal function of the body, including the heart, using limes may be an effective and tasty way to promote increased water consumption.
7. Could have anti-inflammatory properties

With 22% of the daily recommended value for vitamin C in one lime, they are rich in this nutrient. Among many other potential benefits, vitamin C acts as an anti-inflammatory agent in the body. There are also bioactive components in citrus fruits and juices, including limes, that may have involvement in supporting a functional response of the immune system and controlling inflammation, according to a review paper in Frontiers in Immunology.
Scientists need additional well-designed studies in humans to explore the role that citrus fruits may play in lowering inflammation.
8. Might help prevent kidney stones

Limes contain both citric acid and vitamin C. Several research studies in a 2015 scientific review paper have shown the ability of citrus fruits containing these nutrients to break up or prevent the formation of some types of kidney stones.
The National Kidney Foundation suggests that a risk factor for kidney stone formation is not drinking enough water. Lime water could be one solution to help a person meet daily fluid recommendations.

How to make lime water

Lime water is easy to make:

Wash a fresh lime before cutting it.

Fill a glass with water and squeeze the juice from the lime into the water.

To make lime water ahead of time, fill a pitcher with water and squeeze in the juice of 2 or 3 whole limes.

Add lime slices to the pitcher for added flavor.

Drink the water within 1 day for the best flavor.

How to use limes

There are endless ways to use limes inside and outside your kitchen.
They’re valued for their juice and the floral aroma of their zest — which is one reason why they’re considered a staple ingredient in Southeast Asian and Mexican cuisine.
In other parts of the world like India, limes are often pickled to increase their shelf life and then added to dishes as a flavor boost.
Lime zest and juice are common ingredients in desserts and baked goods, such as Key lime pie, cookies, and ice cream.
This citrus fruit can also be used in savory dishes and to add flavor to both alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages.
Outside your kitchen, limes are used as a natural cleaning agent and to neutralize odors. Some studies show that they have antimicrobial properties.
Lime juice can be mixed with vinegar and water and used as a surface spray for a nontoxic cleaning option.

Limes are available at most grocery stores and often found next to lemons and other citrus fruits. Choose the citrus fruits that feel heavy for their size, are bright in color, and have minimal discoloration.
There are endless ways to use limes inside and outside your kitchen. They add flavor and zest to your meals and can be used as a natural cleaning agent.

Potential side effects

Limes are generally safe to consume with little to no side effects.
However, if you’re allergic to other citrus fruits, avoid limes, as they can cause food allergy symptoms, such as swelling, hives, and breathing difficulties. If this occurs, seek medical help immediately.
Additionally, some people may experience acid reflux from eating limes or drinking the juice due to its acidity. Other digestive symptoms may include heartburn, nausea, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing.
Limes are very acidic and best enjoyed in moderation. Eating many limes can increase your risk of cavities, as the acid in limes — and other citrus fruits — can erode tooth enamel.
To protect your teeth, be sure to rinse your mouth with plain water after eating limes or drinking the juice.
In some cases, applying limes directly to your skin can make it more sensitive to the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays and cause inflammation. This is known as phytophotodermatitis.
Limes are generally safe to eat, drink, and touch, but some people may have an adverse reaction to eating them or applying them to their skin.

Lime vs. Lemon Water

Lime water and lemon water are both rich in nutrients, including vitamin C and antioxidants. They are often used interchangeably but do have some key differences.

For starers, limes are less sour than lemons, and although they’re tart, limes have a smoother taste. Lemons have a more potent, sweet and sour taste.

Both citrus fruits are used in a range of recipes, including soups, salads, sauces and dips.

Nutritionally, lemons are higher in vitamin C by about double. Lemons also contain higher amounts of vitamin B6 and folate.

That said, lemon and lime water feature a slew of antioxidants and enhance the taste of plain water, helping keep you better hydrated and promoting detoxification.

Varieties of Lime

There are several varieties of limes, each with its own unique characteristics in terms of flavor, size, and usage. Here are some common varieties of lime:

Persian Lime (Citrus × latifolia):

Also known as Tahiti lime or Bearss lime.

Larger and less acidic compared to Key limes.

Widely available in grocery stores and commonly used in cooking and beverages.

Key Lime (Citrus × aurantiifolia):

Also known as Mexican lime or West Indian lime.

Smaller and more aromatic than Persian limes.

Often used in desserts, especially in the famous Key Lime Pie.

Kaffir Lime (Citrus hystrix):

Known for its distinctive double-lobed leaves, which are often used in Southeast Asian cuisine.

The fruit itself is not typically consumed due to its high acidity and bitterness.

Sweet Lime (Citrus limetta):

Also known as sweet lemon, sweet lime, or Mediterranean sweet lemon.

Larger than traditional limes and has a sweet, less acidic flavor.

Commonly consumed as a fresh fruit or in fruit salads.

Rangpur Lime (Citrus × limonia):

A hybrid between a mandarin orange and a lemon.

Has a sour and tart flavor.

Often used in culinary applications, including beverages and marmalades.

Australian Finger Lime (Citrus australasica):

Also known as caviar lime.

Has elongated, caviar-like vesicles.

Used as a gourmet ingredient in culinary dishes and beverages.

Makrut Lime (Citrus × hystrix):

Formerly known as the Kaffir lime, the term “Makrut” is now used to avoid the pejorative connotations associated with the original name.

Widely used in Southeast Asian cuisine, especially in Thai and Indonesian dishes.

These are just a few examples, and there are many regional and hybrid varieties of limes with unique characteristics. The availability of specific lime varieties can vary depending on the geographic location and climate of the region.

What Does Lime Taste Like

The taste of a lime is characterized by its bright, citrusy, and tangy flavor. Limes are known for their acidity, which gives them a zesty and refreshing taste. The flavor profile includes a combination of tartness and sweetness, with a hint of bitterness in some varieties. Here are some key aspects of the taste of lime:

Tartness: Limes are notably tart, and this tartness is a defining feature of their taste. The level of tartness can vary among different varieties of limes.

Citrusy: Limes belong to the citrus fruit family, and as such, they have a distinct citrus flavor. The citrusy notes contribute to their refreshing taste.

Refreshing: The acidity and citrusy qualities of lime make it a refreshing addition to beverages, salads, and various dishes. Lime is often used to add a bright and lively element to foods and drinks.

Slightly Bitter: While limes are predominantly known for their tartness, some varieties may have a slight bitterness, especially in the peel or pith.

Aromatic: Lime zest, which is the outer peel of the fruit, contains aromatic oils that add fragrance and depth to the overall taste. This aromatic quality is often utilized in cooking and baking.

The taste of lime can vary between different varieties. Persian limes, for example, are larger and less acidic, providing a milder flavor compared to the smaller and more intensely flavored Key limes. The specific application of lime, whether in savory or sweet dishes, can also influence how its taste is perceived. Overall, lime is a versatile fruit that can enhance the flavor of a wide range of culinary creations.

The bottom line

Limes are high in vitamin C and antioxidants — both of which may offer health benefits.

Eating limes or drinking the juice may improve immunity, reduce heart disease risk factors, prevent kidney stones, aid iron absorption, and promote healthy skin.

Avoid limes if you’re allergic to citrus fruit. Still, for most people, these citrus fruits are a healthy and versatile addition to a balanced diet, so try incorporating limes into your recipes to reap their impressive health benefits.

For people who have trouble drinking the amount of water each day that doctors recommend, lime water may be a good alternative.
In addition to extra flavor, lime water also offers additional nutrients that may have a variety of health benefits. However, it is important to note that these health benefits may be more likely in people who make it a habit to drink lime water daily.
Lime water is easy to prepare, and almost everyone can add it to their diet.

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