Lemons and limes are some of the most popular citrus fruits we eat every day. They are known for both their bitter flavor and acidic properties and can be used in a variety of ways.
Although they are similar in health benefits and taste, there is a stark difference between lemons and limes.
These popular citrus fruits provide a number of health benefits. As early as the 1700s, people were learning the wonders of these fruits. A Scottish doctor, James Lind, discovered in 1747 that lemons were incredibly effective at treating Scurvy, a disease that results from a Vitamin C deficiency.
And in today’s age, we have discovered that this high amount of Vitamin C helps reduce a person’s risk of stroke.
One research study followed a group of approximately 70,000 women over 14 years. The study suggests that women who ate the most citrus fruits had a 19% lower risk of ischemic stroke than those who ate the least amount.
Are Lemons and Limes the Same?
Before we start discussing the difference between lemons and limes, it’s important to understand how they are similar. One serving of each of these citrus fruits offers similar nutrients, including the same amounts of calories, carbohydrates, protein, and fiber.
They both help support health and wellness with their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-bacterial properties which can help prevent heart disease and certain types of cancer.
Understanding the Difference between Lemons and Limes
Lemons features and benefits
Lemons are bright yellow in color, oval-shaped, and slightly larger than limes (often around 2-4 inches in length). Their appearance is the main difference between lemons and limes.
Native to Asia, lemons grow in moderate climates and offer a bit more Vitamin C than limes. They are also higher in citric acid, phytochemicals, and tannins.
Lemons typically have a sweeter taste than limes and are often used in both sweet and savory dishes.
Limes features and benefits
Limes, on the other hand, are hybridized citrus fruits that can come in many varieties and from all over the world.
They are bright green, more round in shape, and smaller in size than lemons (sometimes around 1-2 inches long).
They typically grow in tropical and subtropical regions. Because they have a slightly more bitter taste than lemons, limes are most often used in savory dishes.
Health Benefits
Lemons and limes are both high in various nutrients, which means they are a great choice to include in your diet to support your health.
Because they are high in Vitamin C, they help strengthen your immune system. This vitamin helps produce collagen, which supports your body in growing and developing new tissue, muscles, skin cells, and bones.
This nutrient also helps speed up your recovery from illnesses and infections.
Both fruits also provide a good source of iron, which can improve blood circulation and reduce symptoms of anemia, which include weakness and fatigue.
Also, the dietary fiber in lemons and limes supports healthy digestion. There are about 3g of fiber in each fruit, which amounts to 10% of your daily intake. This fiber can reduce constipation and relieve gassiness and bloating.
Final Thoughts
The high fiber and low-calorie count of lemons and limes make them a great fruit to support weight loss. They are two foods that help you feel more satisfied after eating, so they can help you avoid overeating or snacking in between meals.