Lemon is a representative of citrus with a very sour taste. At the word "lemon" many of us trigger a conditioned reflex, and saliva starts to emit, that is, we immediately recognize its taste. But does everyone know what properties this unusual fruit possesses with a sour taste, how much it is useful and to whom it is contraindicated.
Useful properties and harm of lemon
- The lemon acid contained in lemon is able to influence fat metabolism in the body. Lipids dissolve under its action, atherosclerotic plaques decrease. It is also a pronounced antioxidant, i.e. can neutralize harmful substances and disintegrate products.
- The lemon contains vitamin C , which is a great help in curing colds.
- Lemon juice contains malic acid, which activates metabolic processes in cells. It also has a stimulating effect on the glands of external secretion, i.e. helps the outflow of bile and activates the pancreas.
- Essential oil from the peel of lemon has a phytoncidal effect, i.e. suppresses the growth of bacteria. Therefore, the lemon is more useful to eat with the skin (of course, beforehand it must be thoroughly washed).
- Lemon is rich in beta-carotene, this vitamin increases stress resistance and struggles with free radicals.
- It is important to note that the lemon contains vitamins E, A and C in such quantities that it is recommended to be consumed by women in order to prevent cervical cancer. This cocktail of vitamins stimulates normal growth of cervical cells.
- A large amount of vitamin E ensures the smoothness of the skin when eating, and rubbing the face with lemon juice leads to getting rid of pimples and acne.
- Lemon is rich in various minerals - molybdenum, zinc, iron , manganese, copper, etc., that provide nutrition to cells, participate in many metabolic reactions as catalysts and are important for the production of hormones and enzymes.
When can a lemon be harmful?
Lemon juice can harm the stomach mucosa, tk. increases the acidity of gastric contents and if a person has a predisposition to increased production of hydrochloric acid, the process will worsen and ulcer disease may develop.
Harm from the lemon can get those people who are prone to allergies to citrus fruits. And even if there is no allergic component, then do not abuse this fruit in large quantities, as it can provoke an allergic reaction.
How much in a lemon is vitamin C?
Every 100 grams of lemon contain 50-55 mg of ascorbic acid. Such a rich content of vitamin C ensures the elasticity and density of the vascular walls. As well as ascorbic acid has a beneficial effect on metabolic processes, so the lemon actively burns calories.