Lime vs Lemon: What’s the Difference

By Kitchenistic

14 Nov 2019

Lemons and limes are varieties of citrus fruit which are extremely popular everywhere you go. They both have very comparable nutritional values and so they do offer similar health benefits but are usually chosen for the flavor that they bring. Lemons and limes are also both highly acidic fruits which are often used to add a tart taste to recipes. However, there are some differences between lemon and limes. Understanding the similarities and differences between them is simple, including the nutritional benefits that they offer.

Lemon vs Lime

The lemon is a citrus fruit grown on the lemon tree originating from Asia. In contrast, the lime fruit is actually a crossbred fruit which comes in various forms. Sometimes there can be some confusion with some mistakenly thinking that limes are lemons which have yet to ripen, but this is obviously not the case. Although, it is true that both lemons and limes originate from the same family. The shape of both fruits is relatively round with the green lime usually being smaller while the larger lemon is bright yellow. Both fruits are sharp and tangy in taste and should be juicy when fresh and ripe.

Though lemons and limes are noticeably distinct fruits, they do share numerous qualities, particularly when it comes downs to their nutritional value and possible health benefits.

Sliced lemons and lime

Lemon Nutrition

Lemons include very little protein and fat. They consist mainly of carbs and they are mostly water. An average sized lemon has roughly only around 20 calories. Lemons are around 10% carbohydrate, and these are mainly simple sugars and soluble fibers.

Lime Nutrition

Limes are extremely high in vitamin C for such a small fruit, offering over 20% of your daily requirements. Limes also include small quantities of vitamin B6, iron, potassium, calcium, and so much more.

Benefits Of Lemon And Limes

Both lemons and limes have been used in traditional medicine for a long time as they have many health benefits. Both of them are packed with lots of good stuff such as vitamins, antioxidants, and minerals and they offer a variety of health advantages.

Lemon and limes are full of antioxidants. We all need antioxidants as they help to defend our bodies from cell damage. This is really beneficial for people with chronic illnesses like diabetes and it can be said that antioxidants go a long way in preventing such diseases.
Lemons and limes contain collagen. This is a nutrient which is vital to helping you to maintain younger looking skin. Collagen helps to slow down the aging process and naturally enhances your skin. Lemon and lime juices are often included in skin creams because of this.
Lemon and limes are full of vitamin C. Neither fruit have a lot of other vitamins and minerals, but they are both a rich source of vitamin C. Lemon and limes act as a crucial antioxidant which prevents cells in your body from damage. Being high in vitamin C, lemon and limes also supports the body to absorb iron from the food that you eat and strengthens the immune system. Lemons do offer more vitamin C than you get from limes, but they will both make a substantial dietary impact if you eat them regularly. Generally, lemons provide a marginally greater measure of vitamins and minerals, like vitamin C and B6.
Lemon and limes have flavonoids. Flavonoids are a type of chemical found in natural products that are said to have numerous health benefits. Flavonoids are believed to have anti-inflammatory properties and are an important element in the fight against many diseases including cancer.
Lemon and limes help to reduce the risks of heart disease by helping to reduce some of the risk factors. They can help to lower blood pressure and keep arteries clear and free flowing.
Lemon and limes might help with weight loss over a period of time. A lemons nutritional property mean that consuming lemon-based foods should help with weight loss as they are so low in calories. The lime benefits include this vitamin rich, low calorie element too. Lemons and limes can overall be used as part of a healthy diet assisting with weight loss alongside regular exercise.

Lemons and limes on rustic wooden board

Lemon and limes are delicious added to sauces and salads or squeezed over your next fish dish. They not only add a tangy citrus taste to your meals, but they are also good for you to eat. Both lemon and limes are low in calories and high in some vital vitamins so you should consider increasing the use of them in your daily diet.