15 Healthy Reasons to Start Squeezing More Lemons

A chilled glass of lemonade on the deck to finish off a long day at work is absolute bliss, especially in this heat! Luckily for you, sipping away at this perfect summer beverage is going to do more than just cool you off. As underrated as they may seem, lemons are actually considered to be a superfood. They are overflowing with antioxidants that promote our health in a variety of different ways. Take a look below to learn more about what this tangy treat can do for you.

Prevent kidney stones: Studies have shown that chugging half a glass of lemon juice a day actually increases citrate levels in our urine. This helps alleviate calcium buildup in our kidneys, and can spare us the discomfort of a kidney stone. (via PopSugar)

Fight cancer: Lemons contain a ton of the antioxidant vitamin C, which is known to combat the effects of free radicals that have the potential to cause cancer. (via Medical News Today)

>> Read more: What Are Free Radicals and How Do they Affect Us?

Reduce pain and inflammation: Lemon juice has the power to dissolve a substance in our bodies called uric acid. Buildup of uric acid is one of the primary causes of inflammation in our joints and knees, so try chugging a little lemon water after your next run for some relief! (via Food Matters)

Support weight loss: Lemons are packed full of a substance called pectin that acts as a soluble fiber in the body. Pectin promotes digestion, and can actually help us reach those weight loss goals! (via Shape.com)

Lower risk of stroke: Research completed by the American Heart Association revealed that consuming higher amounts of citrusy fruits can decrease women's risk of ischemic stroke by up to 19 percent!

>> Read more: Recognizing Stroke Symptoms

Soothe sore throats: For near-instant relief for a sore throat, try sipping on some hot water with honey and lemon. It is one of the most effective homemade remedies out there, and will save you a trip to the pharmacy. (via PopSugar)

Stimulate your digestive tract: Instead of starting your day off with a venti coffee, try subbing in a mug of hot water and lemon. It will help eliminate waste from your body and give your digestive tract a little kick! (via PopSugar)

Promote brain and nerve cells: Bananas aren't the only superheroes when it comes to potassium content. Lemons are also packed full of this wonderful vitamin, which can stimulate our brain and nerve health. (via Food Matters)

Combat skin damage: The high levels of vitamin C in lemons can do a lot for us when it comes to skin damage caused by sun and pollution. A glass of lemon juice or water a day can actually help reduce wrinkles and improve the texture of our skin. (via Medical News Today)

Reduce the risk of asthma: According to recent studies, the nutrients found in lemons, especially that vitamin C, have been found to actually minimize the risk of developing asthma. (via Medical News Today)

Natural itch reliever: Instead of smothering your skin in that smelly, gooey cream, try squeezing a little lemon juice on that aggravating spot! Lemon contains natural anti-inflammatory and anesthetic qualities that should alleviate that itch in no time. (via PopSugar)

>> Read more: 25 Home Remedies and Quick Fixes

Increase iron absorption: Iron deficiencies are one of the most prominent issues in women, but lemons offer up an easy fix! Adding a little juice to your drink or your salad will go a long way in boosting your iron consumption. (via Medical News Today)

Flush out toxins: Lemon contains a good deal of citric acid, which aids the body in cleansing the digestive tract and eliminating the buildup of toxic elements. It's no wonder lemons are such a popular ingredient in detoxes! (via Food Matters)

Boost potassium levels: Lemons are packed with about 80 milligrams of potassium, a mineral that is absolutely essential to our heart health. Next time you don't have a banana on hand, try squeezing a little lemon into your drink, or check out these recipes! (via PopSugar)

Support the immune system: And we are back to the vitamin C and the high mineral content of lemons for this one, ladies. Adding a little of this citrusy fruit to your diet will keep those colds and flus at bay! (via Medical News Today)

Lemons are packed full of a wide array of nutritional benefits that will keep you feeling invigorated during these steamy summer months! Let yourself indulge a little with our favorite lemony recipes by clicking here.