How can you benefit from drinking lime water?

Low in calories, limes boast a plethora of vitamins and minerals such as vitamin C, antioxidants, pantothenic acid (vitamin B5), vitamin B6, folate, magnesium, and potassium, making them a popular choice for detoxification and boosting the immune system.

Dr. Doan Vinh Binh of the Medical Information Center at Tam Anh General Hospital in Ho Chi Minh City mentioned that citrus fruits like oranges and grapefruits, which are rich in flavonoids—a group of potent biologically active chemicals—alongside vitamin C, play a significant role in fighting oxidative stress, thereby lowering the risk of liver diseases and promoting liver health.

Moreover, the antioxidants in limes aid the liver in producing glutathione, a crucial detoxifying agent. Lime’s naringenin compound also helps decrease inflammation in fatty liver disease patients. Consuming lime juice can assist in lowering cholesterol and blood sugar levels, facilitating smoother liver operations.

A drinking glass with lime juice. Illustration photo by Pexels

A warm diluted glass of lime juice consumed in the morning can enhance enzyme activity, improve liver efficiency, remove bile-accumulated toxins, and stimulate bladder contraction.

However, Dr. Binh advises prudent lime usage to maintain health. Individuals with stomach ailments, dental problems, allergies, or those treating specific conditions should moderate or eliminate lime intake.

Beyond beverages, limes can be incorporated into daily meals like salads, where lime juice serves as a flavor enhancer, particularly beneficial for those watching their fat and sugar consumption.

Consuming the whole pulp of citrus fruits such as limes, oranges, and grapefruits is advantageous for adding fiber to the diet, aiding in digestion and detoxification via the digestive system, thus alleviating liver workload. Nevertheless, to optimize these benefits without adverse effects, it’s suggested to limit consumption to two to three limes daily (or four to five tablespoons of lime juice).