If you feel stressed, it's not only because of the environments, thoughts, and situations we are going through and the global pandemic situation. An inadequate diet also overloads the body, making it work slower and with deficiency. By drinking lime water, you can also take advantage of the many health benefits it offers.
The lime is a fruit that comes from the lime tree (Citrus limetta), which is found in Southeast Asia. With a characteristic aroma, the lime is similar to a lemon but yellowish-green in color. In fact, it was called the "sweet lemon."
1. Reduces the risk of heart disease
Limes are a good source of magnesium and potassium, which promote heart health. Potassium can naturally lower blood pressure and improve blood circulation, reducing the risk of heart attack and stroke. Research is underway on compounds in limes called limonins that can lower cholesterol levels. High blood pressure when combined with high cholesterol can harden and narrow blood vessels.
2. Improves skin quality
Lime contains antioxidants to help skin repair itself. By reducing inflammation, antioxidants allow the skin to repair itself and correct visible damage and stimulate collagen production. Both the oil applied to the skin and the juice consumed orally rejuvenate the skin. In addition, they protect it from infections and help keep it shiny. Lime acid applied directly to the skin cures dandruff, itching, and removes dead skin cells.
3. Cleanses the digestive system
Drinking water with lime improves digestion as its acids act as cleaners, sweeping away toxicity and improving constipation. Limes are acidic and help saliva break down food for better digestion. Additionally, the flavonoids in limes stimulate the secretion of digestive juices. If you suffer from constipation, the acidity of limes can cleanse the excretory system and stimulate intestinal activity. And if you deal with frequent heartburn or acid reflux, drinking a glass of warm water with 2 teaspoons of lime juice about 30 minutes before meals can help prevent reflux symptoms.
4. It helps to lose weight
Another benefit of lime water is that it helps control your weight. Citric acids can increase the rate of metabolism, helping you burn more calories and store less fat. Regular physical activity and portion control are important for shedding extra pounds and managing weight. So aim for at least 30 minutes of physical activity on most days of the week and make half of each meal contain fruits and vegetables. To start your day off right and speed up your metabolism, have a glass of lime water in the morning or suck on a lemon wedge before meals.
5. Reduces inflammation
Arthritis, gout, and other joint problems are caused by inflammation. Vitamin C can reduce the level of inflammation in your body, so adding lime juice to water can ease the symptoms of arthritis and similar conditions that cause joint pain and stiffness. A study in the Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases reported that those who consumed the least amount of vitamin C were more than three times as likely to develop arthritis. Limes can also lower uric acid levels. Uric acid is a waste product that the body produces by breaking down foods that contain purines, such as meat, liver, mushrooms, and dried beans. High levels of uric acid can cause gout.
6. It prevents cancer
Cancer is the uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells and can develop in different parts of the body, including the breasts, lungs, and kidneys. Drinking lime water can lower your risk of developing cancer and help you fight the disease. The antioxidant properties in limes promote healthy cell growth and improve the function of the immune system.
Start your day with positivity by drinking a glass of water with the juice of 1/4 of a lime. Cut it into thin slices and submerge them in the glass so that they continue to add even more properties while enhancing their own flavor. You´ll discover not only a healthy beverage but also a very tasty one!