Lemons contain 22 anti-cancer compounds and reduce risk of cancer by 50 percent

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With warmer weather approaching, many people will cool off with ice water with lemon, iced tea with lemon or lemonade.  Contrary to the popular phrase, when life hands you lemons, life may really be handing you amazing health benefits!

Lemon peels have have been found to help boost your immune system; lower cholesterol, and even prevent cancer.  Lemon peels are also antimicrobial meaning that they can protect agains bacterial infections.(1)

Nutrients found in lemon peels can help boost your immune system; lower cholesterol and prevent cancer

Research has shown that natures phytonutrients can outperform chemotherapy without causing harm to the body.  Modified citrus pectin is derived from the pulp and rinds of citrus fruit and has been found to inhibit the spread of prostate, breast and skin cancer to other organs.(1)

Limonoids are chemicals found in citrus peels which give the peels a bitter taste.  They are also capable of slowing cancer cell growth and even killing the cancer cells.  Lemons contain 22 anti-cancer compounds that stop cell division in cancer cells.(1)

Lemons contain 22 anti-cancer compounds that stop cell division in cancer cells and can reduce the risk of cancer by 50 percent

The Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organization of Australia found that citrus fruits can reduce the risk of cancer by 50 percent! (1)

Lemon’s are not only protective against cancer but can also help the body through detoxification.  Lemon juices as a similar atomic structure to the stomachs digestive juices and tricks the liver into producing bile.  This helps to keep food moving through the body and gastrointestinal tract.(2)

Lemons contain antioxidants that help fight free radical damage.  This can result in healthy, youthful skin.  The vitamin C found in lemons can help the body produce more collagen and help smooth out lines and wrinkles in the face.(2)

Lemons have been found to fight free radical damage resulting in healthy, youthful skin

Sipping lemon water has also been found to help you lose weight due to the type of fiber found in lemons.  Pectin helps you feel full longer meaning you can manage the pesky cravings easier.  Lemons have also been found to boost energy levels without the caffeine crash resulting in lower stress levels and mood improvement. (2)

Many people enjoy lemonade, but are cautious of the sugar content.  Refined sugars have been linked to numerous health issues, but it is possible to enjoy your lemonade and protect your health.  Try organicspark.com’s healthy lemonade recipe. (3) If you are vegan, feel free to substitute the honey for coconut sugar, agave, or maple syrup.

Raw Honey Lemonade 

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup raw honey
  • 1 cup fresh-squeezed lemon juice
  • 6 cups filtered water

Instructions:

  1. In a blender, combine raw honey and lemon juice.  Blend on high for 30 seconds.  Add water to blender.  Pulse until combined.  Chill until service.  Serve over ice. (3)

Sources included:

(1) http://www.naturalhealth365.com/lemon-peels.html/

(2) http://draxe.com/benefits-of-lemon-water/

(3) http://www.organicspark.com/portfolio/raw-honey-lemonade/

Lynn Griffith
Lynn is a licensed therapist who enjoys cooking, creativity and enjoys helping other's learn how to care for their minds and bodies through healthy eating.  Lynn has wrote for The Raw Food World News and is currently in the process of building her own website focused on managing mental health through nutrition and wellness.