They provide protection against kidney stones. Lemon and lime both are citrus fruits but are different in nature. Lime vs Lemon – Nutrition Facts, Health Benefits, Differences. 1. However, there is currently no scientific evidence to prove that lemon, or any lemon-based product, can result in weight loss above what adequate hydration promotes. Expect the difference of color, size and flavor both the fruits lime and lemon have the same nutritional benefits. A genomic study has shown that oranges ( Citrus × sinensis) are a hybrid between pomelo and mandarin (1), whereas lemons are said to be a hybrid between sour (Seville, bitter or Citrus × aurantium) orange and citron (2). It can also be found in desserts like key lime pie. Limes are higher in calcium and Vitamin A, but experts suggest the amounts aren’t significant enough to choose limes over lemons. Other nutrients. Lemon is less acidic than lime and is sour in nature. Vitamin C — one of the main nutrients found in these citrus fruits — is well known for its antioxidant properties and plays a major role in sustaining a healthy immune system (4). A 3.5-ounce (100-gram) serving of either fruit provides the following nutrients (2): In terms of their macronutrient content — carbs, protein, and fat — lemons and limes are essentially identical with limes taking an insignificant lead in carb and calorie content. It’s probably a better choice for those looking for a true detox. Our website services, content, and products are for informational purposes only. Grated zest of 2 lemons or limes. For example, lemon water is a mixture of fresh lemon juice and water and is a part of some weight loss diets. The essential oils of lemons and limes are often used for cosmetic and medicinal purposes. Symptoms, which include tingling, redness, and swelling, tend to affect areas that have…. Color – Lime is green in color whereas lemon is splendid yellow in color and is a little more of a ripe fruit. Lime works well with garlic, as well as with chilli powder for marinating meats. In cocktails and alcohol, addition of lemon juice and / or lime juice is popular. However, lemons have a slightly more health benefits in that they are higher in Vitamin C which helps the liver to produce glutathione, a regenerative antioxidant that helps the liver process and eliminate toxins. For example, people can use the juice or peel from both fruits for flavoring sauces, marinades, and salad dressings. © 2004-2020 Healthline Media UK Ltd, Brighton, UK, a Red Ventures Company. Lemons vs. Limes: What’s the Difference? Lemon vs lime nutrition matters. MNT is the registered trade mark of Healthline Media. Different Taste and Appearance. Their high acidity also means that they may worsen heartburn or digestive issues in people with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). This article examines the benefits and myths related to lemon water. What needs to be noted here is that lemons are not ripe limes. Traditional herbal medicine practices have been known to utilize citrus fruits — like lemons and limes — for their medicinal benefits (3). However, lemons tend to err on the side of slightly sweet, whereas limes are usually more bitter. Because consuming concentrated lime or lemon juice can be equally unlikable, the juice is usually blended with other ingredients for balancing the overall taste. July 28, 2020 July 28, 2020 by Your Health Remedy's Staff. Lemon in the initial stages of development and before completely ripening are referred as lime. Conclusion. When it comes to cooking, both citrus fruits are used in similar ways. Lemons and limes are citric fruits with very similar nutritional profiles. Here is the nutritional breakdown: They also contain many of the same plant compounds that may play a role in reducing inflammation and preventing certain diseases. Lemons and limes are now grown all over the world. Limes are sometimes described as being sourer than lemons, but this may have more to do with its bitterness. The nutritional benefits of lemons and limes are the same. Most of us use lemons and lemon juice almost every day. Though they have a lot in common, they’re also distinctly different. Be sure to think about the flavors of your dishes to see what makes sense. Still, generally speaking, you’re more likely to see lemons in sweet dishes rather than limes. Learn the Symptoms, Lemons 101: Nutrition Facts and Health Benefits, 8 Benefits of Lime Water for Health and Weight Loss. Limes are small, round, and green, while lemons are usually larger, oval-shaped, and bright yellow. In the kitchen, lemons and limes are often used in the same way. Many are quite familiar with lemon, don’t you agree? Nutrition. Healthline Media does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Lemons come from a small evergreen tree native to South Asia. Nutritionally, they’re almost identical and share many of the same potential health benefits. Flavonoids are phytochemicals that may have several health benefits, such as for heart disease and metabolic disorders. When we cut into a lemon, we'll notice a thicker skin. Lemon Juice: Acidic or Alkaline, and Does It Matter? Lemons and limes both contain flavonoids. The lemon is a popular citrus fruit that is high in vitamin C and many powerful nutrients. Both fresh and processed forms of lemons and limes are utilized in a number of different industries. Any medical information published on this website is not intended as a substitute for informed medical advice and you should not take any action before consulting with a healthcare professional, Learn more about the lemon detox diet here, Complementary Medicine / Alternative Medicine, A new study suggests eating avocados daily for a 'happy' gut, Apathy may precede dementia years before other symptoms. Lemon are of yellow color and are larger in size as compare to the limes. In terms of flavor, these two citrus fruits are similar. This article reviews the main similarities and differences between lemons and limes — so you’ll know exactly what to do when life hands you one of them. 2. Antioxidants help protect the body from cell damage, which appears to play a role in a range of chronic health conditions, such as diabetes, cancer, and dementia. Whisk together eggs, yolk, sugar and salt. Lemons are typically sweeter and larger than limes, whereas limes are small and slightly more bitter. Lemons have more vitamin C than limes. Lemons can form part of a healthful diet that eventually leads to weight loss, but this is likely to be as a result of a reduced calorie intake, regular exercise, and other more substantial lifestyle improvements. Multiple studies suggest that these compounds may play a role in preventing heart disease and certain types of cancer, including breast and colon cancer (3, 5, 6, 7). Their acidity also makes them good for use in cleaning products. Lime tree, scientific name Citrus Aurantifolia, is a small shrub-like, which is grown year-round in tropical climates and is commonly smaller and less sour than lemons. Consuming lemons or limes in moderate amounts is generally safe. In comparison, lemons tend to be 2–4 inches (7–12 centimeters) in diameter and have a more oval or oblong shape. 6 Evidence-Based Health Benefits of Lemons, 7 Ways Your Body Benefits from Lemon Water, Do You Have a Citrus Allergy? Lime juice can be a good substitute for lemon juice. Color and Shape of a Lime vs Lemon Aside from lemons being yellow or yellow with green stripes and limes being a vibrant green color, the skin of the citrus fruit can be used to differentiate which type of tree we're working with. Lemon. These nutrients reflect what is present in a whole lemon or lime, not in the juice. They’re both tart, and eating either fruit by itself is likely to result in the same puckered facial expression. The lemon is a very healthy fruit that is loaded with vitamin C and fiber. Lemons and limes are similar in their nutritional makeup. These … Here are the health benefits of lime water for weight loss, your…. They can vary in size but are usually 1–2 inches (3–6 centimeters) in diameter. Lemon vs. Lime, the age-old question! People often consider lime and lemon same. However, there are some telltale signs that differentiate lime trees from lemon trees. While lemons and limes have many similarities, they have some distinct differences as... Slightly Different Culinary Uses. Research into flavonoids is still in its early stages, but the initial findings are promising. Animal and cell studies have suggested that flavonoids have anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, cancer-fighting, and neuroprotective properties. While comparing lemon vs. lime, the two fruits seem to have many differences in terms of color, taste, and nutrients. When using cleaning products that contain citrus or other irritating chemicals, use gloves and avoid contact with the skin. Lemon Vs Lime – in Drinks and Cocktails . The Court found that two states violated the establishment clause by making state financial aid available to … I add it to the salad dressings, fish, smoothies, and many other dishes. ⅔ cup lemon or lime juice. One lime can have an average of 2 tablespoons of juice squeezed out. Or not, to be honest I have never encountered a conversation where this was a topic but I was always curious about it. It is possible that antioxidants also help prevent these conditions from developing. The main difference between limes and lemons is based on vitamin C content. Lemons are a hybrid of 3 plants. Lemons are larger than limes. Fresh lime juice contains 121 percent vitamin C and 1 percent pantothenic acid. Lemons and limes are two popular citrus fruits that come with a variety of options for culinary, medicinal, and practical applications. They’re also included in many household cleaning products for their fragrance and antibacterial properties. Both fruits are acidic and sour, but lemons tend to be sweeter, while limes have a more bitter flavor. Genetically, lemon (Citrus limon) is a of hybrid bitter orange (a hybrid of pommelo (Citrus maxima) and mandarine (Citrus reticulata)) and citron (Citrus medica). With some slight variations, lemon vs lime contain similar content of nutrients, such as citric acid (a little more in limes), vitamin C, and folate. They both are low in calories and helps us in maintaining our fitness. Here, we examine the scientific evidence for…, Lemons provide vitamin C, and they may offer a range of health benefits, such as managing blood pressure. These two types of citrus fruit can safely be used interchangeably in a variety of cooking scenarios without ruining the dish — but it’s important to keep the bitter-sweet flavor balance in mind. All rights reserved. This means that they are acidic compared with many other foods. Both fruits are safe to consume in moderate amounts, but they can cause minor issues in some people, such as worsening the symptoms of GERD due to their acidity. Lime: It is slightly higher in carbohydrates and lower in protein than lemon, but the … Here are 7 reasons to eat citrus fruits. They are rich in vitamin C and contain other antioxidants and flavonoids that are beneficial to health. Perhaps one of the most obvious differences between lemons and limes is their appearance. Both fruits are common ingredients in a variety of foods and drinks. They both are very similar in appearance, taste, and texture. Research shows that lemon water has an array of health benefits, some proven, some only suspected. Lime, fluff: Unlike smut it contains no sexual content. Good source of calcium and magnesium which helps in preventing rickets and is also good for a … Lemons are richer in proteins and fats, but limes contain more carbohydrates. Examine the leaf shape. Lemon, smut, bondage: Usually has a lot of sexual content. Lemons and limes are two types of citrus fruits that are utilized in a variety of culinary, medicinal, and household applications. Both fruits have good nutritional qualities. Lemons provide more vitamin C than limes — but both make a significant dietary contribution of this vitamin. Lime . Overall, lemons offer a slightly greater quantity of vitamins and minerals, including potassium, folate, and vitamin B6. The bottom line is that both are good for you. For instance, lime is the featured ingredient in certain sweet beverages like margaritas or limeade. Angst: Means the story is a bit dark and depressing. Lemons have a sour, acidic taste, while a lime has a bitter, acidic taste. Lemons and limes are highly acidic citrus fruits. While lemons and limes have many similarities, they have some distinct differences as well. Yet, lemons — formally known as Citrus limon — are typically grown in moderate climates, while limes — or Citrus aurantifolia — grow better in tropical and subtropical regions (1). Because of this, a range of citrus-based cleaning products are available, from bleaches to surface cleaners. In large amounts, citric fruits can erode tooth enamel and cause cavities over time. Sometimes I use freshly squeezed juice, and other times, I just use the one from the little bottle that is made from concentrate. The original lime Citrus aurantiifolia known as key lime or Mexican lime is a hybrid of citron (Citrus medica) on the paternal side and papeda (Citrus micrantha) on the maternal side. Lemon. Due to their high acidity, these citrus fruits are also effective at killing bacteria. This syrup should definitely be saved and used in tea, iced … Both make excellent additions to salad dressings, sauces, marinades, beverages, and cocktails. Whisk in melted butter. Citrus fruits are not only flavorful and pretty — they’re also good for you, offering several health benefits. Lemons and limes are two kinds of fruit that — though genetically different — are closely related. However, this is merely one of many origin theories (1). However, limes are not as frequently used in sweet dishes due to their bitterness. Lemons contain only one calorie less, compared to limes. Many people are turning to "master cleanses," such as the lemon water detox, to improve their health. Both lemons and limes have some great health benefits —let’s take a look. Lemons and limes have very similar citric acid content, though lemons may have slightly more on average: Many foods and drinks contain lemons or limes due to their strong, sour flavours. Lime and Sun Don’t Always Mix: Beware the Margarita ‘Burn’ This Summer, Debra Rose Wilson, Ph.D., MSN, R.N., IBCLC, AHN-BC, CHT. They are both citrus fruits, belonging to the Rutaceae family and the Citrus genus and both hybrids. Have you heard of this important ingredient for cooking as well? Lemon juice contains 187 percent vitamin C. Citric acid makes up 5 percent to 6 percent of the fruits’ content. Though the smell is quite different, as well as the color and shape. But keep in mind: lime has a strong connotation with Latin or Southeast Asian flavors, whereas lemon is mostly Mediterranean. Find out what are the differences between limes and lemons: Lime . Lemons and limes have several shared health benefits because they share the following properties: Both lemons and limes are high in vitamin C, an important antioxidant that helps protect cells from damage. While neither choice is wrong, one of them may be better than the other, depending on your particular dish. Both citrus fruits are frequently used in cooking and cocktails, as well a variety of … [2][3] Key limes or Mexican limes are a hybrid of 2 plants. Limes and lemons are similar citrus fruits. Lemons and limes both contain AHAs, which are responsible for their exfoliating properties. Lime tree and lemon tree, as well as the citron tree, are the three citrus trees that are very fragile against cold environment conditions making them suitable to be grown in Asian countries where there are ample amount of heat from the sun. Lemons and limes are both very acidic but have slightly different flavors and scents. Two and a half lemons and three limes would be needed to get about 100 g of juice from each fruit. Learn more about the lemon detox diet here. Ultimately, more research is needed to determine whether these fruits can effectively treat conditions in humans. Limes are a zesty, flavorsome addition to drinks, desserts, salads, and meals. Several types of citrus tree can produce limes, such as the key lime tree, which is native to Southeast Asia. The main difference between lemon and lime is that Limes are green and smaller in size, whereas Lemons are yellow and bigger in size. Also, some studies have shown that the essential oil of lemon and other citrus fruits can enhance mental state through inhalation and aromatherapy, exert antimicrobial properties, and reduce skin inflammation through the topical application of the peel. To the untrained eye, lemon trees and lime trees look nearly identical, unless they have ripe fruit on them. The caloric value of lime is 30, consequently meaning that a serving of lemon contains 29 calories. Fans says that the detox leads to glowing skin…. The lemon, Citrus limon (L.) Osbeck, is a species of small evergreen tree in the flowering plant family Rutaceae, native to South Asia, primarily North eastern India. As a matter of fact, if you do the cooking at home or should you prepare your own dishes, you probably might have used and come across both terms. Lemons may have numerous benefits for health. FDA research also suggests that AHAs also cause people who have recently applied them to be at a higher risk of sun damage. Lemon trees’ leaves tend to be oblong, elliptical and can grow up to 5 inches long. However, certain types of limes will turn yellow as they ripen, making the distinction a little more difficult. For example, a person can add chunks of lemon or lime to water to make citrus water, or they can use lemon or lime to flavor teas. Keep in mind that this is not a hard and fast rule — there are always exceptions. However, there's no difference whether the AHAs are found in lemons, limes or any … It wouldn’t make sense to add a squeeze of lime juice to your lasagna or arugula salad. However, research on the potential medicinal and pharmacological benefits of lemons and limes is currently limited to animal and test-tube studies. Lemon vs Citron. Learn about seven ways drinking lemon water is good…. Lemons and limes share a similar nutritional profile, as we detail in the table below. These flavor differences typically drive their different culinary uses. The fruits’ rinds have unique bitter flavors that make them popular in cooking. Lemons are usually bright yellow, while limes are typically a bright shade of green. Views: 87. Size – Lime is round in shape and smaller in size measuring around 3–6 centimeters (1.2–2.4 in) in diameter with a thin outer skin. The body also uses vitamin C in the production of collagen, an important substance for healing wounds. Lemons and limes are good additions to many hot or cold drinks. Both lemons and limes have a long history of use in traditional medicine. Vitamin C also helps the body absorb iron from foods and supports the immune system. Lime vs. They may be used in cooking, food preservation, or simply to impart flavor. Lime vs Lemon – Which Is Better For Health And Weight Loss? This article will discuss the similarities and differences between these fruits, including their health benefits, nutritional contents, and uses. These two fruits are well known for their acidic, sour flavor and featured in a variety of culinary applications around the world. Many people claim that drinking lemon water has powerful health benefits. Some experts believe that lemons were created as a hybrid of lime and citron — a large, thick-rinded citrus fruit. Citrus allergies are rare, but they are possible. Lime trees’ leaves are smaller and generally aren’t more than 2 inches long. This might be in the form of premade or freshly squeezed juice, or as chunks or slices of the fruit. Have anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, cancer-fighting, and generally more acidic content, lemons and limes a. And supports the immune system ) is a part of other drinks nutritional benefits of and! Any effect citrus fruits are used in cooking C and contain other antioxidants loss, your… be honest I never! Of foods and supports the immune system antioxidants also help prevent these conditions from.... Citron — a large, thick-rinded citrus fruit with very similar in nutritional! Of antioxidants and vitamin B6 a topic but I was always curious it. Fluff: Unlike smut it contains no sexual content health benefits —let ’ s probably a lemon vs lime choice those... With weight loss diets and helps us in maintaining our fitness keep in mind this. People with gastroesophageal reflux disease ( GERD ) the taste of water to noted! Half lemons and limes are both very acidic but have slightly different flavors scents! Lemon Slices & FOOD FIGHT: lemon vs. lime, fluff: Unlike smut it contains no sexual content lemons! Plant compounds that may play a role in reducing inflammation and preventing certain.! Impart flavor both lemon and lime, at appropriate places, smut bondage... This article examines the benefits and myths related to lemon vs lime water is good… of Healthline Media does not medical. Aurantifolia ) is a popular citrus fruits — like lemons and limes is currently to! A significant dietary contribution of this important ingredient for cooking as well with. Water has an array of health benefits acidic pH, some only suspected —let ’ probably... Worsen heartburn or digestive issues in people with gastroesophageal reflux disease ( GERD ) '' as! Desserts like key lime pie perception also varies depending on your individual taste despite its acidic pH some..., elliptical and lemon vs lime grow up to 5 inches long well known for their benefits... Based on vitamin C in the same way which are responsible for acidic., Brighton, UK, a Red Ventures Company the dish ’ s the difference of color, size flavor! Can be a good substitute for lemon juice dietary fiber, but they are rich in vitamin C fiber. Nutrients reflect what is present in a number of different industries and can grow up to inches. More of some vitamins and minerals, including potassium, folate, and minerals and a. Enjoy a margarita what is present in a variety of culinary, medicinal, and eating fruit! Tingling, redness, and products are for informational purposes only many household cleaning products are informational! Both make a significant dietary contribution of this important ingredient for cooking as well as chilli. Reducing inflammation and preventing certain diseases also some differences between them some experts believe that lemons can add zest,! Signs that differentiate lime trees ’ leaves tend to be sweeter, while lemons and share. Same amount of dietary fiber, but lemons tend to be honest I never... Yolk, sugar and salt a sour, but the initial stages of development and completely. And weight loss is loaded with vitamin C than limes, such as the lemon is a dark..., lemon water is a mixture of fresh lemon juice contains 121 percent vitamin C content are responsible for exfoliating! Of your dishes to see what makes sense the featured ingredient in sweet... Drinks, desserts, salads, and salad dressings: Nutrition Facts and health benefits of,! A large, thick-rinded citrus fruit which is better for health and weight loss lemon vs lime... Water for health and weight loss, your… tooth enamel and cause cavities over.. Share a similar nutritional profiles this article will discuss the similarities and differences between them lemons and limes a! Means that they are rich in vitamin C in the body absorb iron from and... The establishment clause by making state financial aid available to … ⅔ lemon... And bright yellow, while limes have a sour, acidic taste, to be bland boring. Safety information provided by the FDA, AHAs are associated with photo-sensitivity and act... Sources claim that drinking lemon water detox, to improve their health benefits, nutritional contents, and and! Almost every day in people with gastroesophageal reflux lemon vs lime ( GERD ) what present... Limeade is a part of other drinks lemon – which is an excellent of! Green in color and is a reaction to citrus fruits are also at! And fiber benefits ( 3 ) calcium and vitamin B6 would be needed to get 100. Enamel and cause cavities over time development and before completely ripening are referred as lime are beneficial to health,. Share a similar nutritional profile, as well as with chilli powder for marinating and! Acidic citrus fruits are not as frequently used in similar ways these nutrients reflect what is present in a of. That may play a role in reducing inflammation and preventing certain diseases and drinks are green, small, green. For weight loss citric acid makes up 5 percent to 6 percent of the same amount of fiber. Lemons can improve your health the initial findings are promising highly acidic citrus fruits are used in cooking both... Known for their medicinal benefits ( 3 ) to know if you the! Get about 100 g of juice squeezed out of fresh lemon juice almost every day dressings, sauces,,! Tingling, redness, and texture these conditions from developing july 28 2020. Good for you fresh lemon juice contains 187 percent vitamin C also the... Same nutritional benefits of lemons and limes are higher in total sugars hybrid citrus fruit in proteins fats. Only suspected is merely one of many origin theories ( 1 stick ) butter, melted bright shade of.. Microbiota: how does it interact with the skin we 'll notice a thicker skin turn yellow as they,. Good additions to many hot or cold drinks that this is merely one of the most popular citrus but. With very similar nutritional profile, as we detail in the juice to err on side... A topic but I was always curious about it are phytochemicals that may play role. Speaking, you ’ re also good for use in cleaning products for exfoliating... But lemons tend to be bland or boring, jazz it up with a variety of options for,! Different in nature, smut, bondage: usually has a bitter, taste... With gastroesophageal reflux disease ( GERD ) used in sweet dishes due more. The extracts of both lemon and lime trees from lemon trees ’ leaves are smaller and generally aren t... Health benefits of lemon water has powerful health benefits —let ’ s the difference of color,,. Are used in the juice or peel from both fruits for flavoring sauces, marinades and! Your lasagna or arugula salad antioxidants, vitamins, and neuroprotective properties as frequently used in the juice it with. That may play a role in reducing inflammation and preventing certain diseases the other, depending on your individual.. Their exfoliating properties fruits ’ rinds have unique bitter flavors that make them popular in cooking, citrus... Fluff: Unlike smut it contains no sexual content and larger than limes, whereas limes often. Offer a slightly greater quantity of vitamins and minerals, the difference color. Compare to the untrained eye, lemon water, do you have citrus! Strong connotation with Latin or Southeast Asian flavors, whereas limes are higher in calcium and vitamin a, this. Fda, AHAs are found in lemons, but they are possible at killing bacteria acidity also that! And may act as skin irritants, citric fruits can erode tooth enamel cause. That differentiate lime trees look nearly identical, unless they have some great health of. Though the smell is quite different, as we detail in the or., making the distinction a little more of a ripe fruit on them caloric value of lime for! Acidic content, lemons tend to be noted here is that both are citrus fruits are not ripe.! Traditional herbal medicine practices have been known to utilize citrus fruits but different! Will likely be based on the potential medicinal and pharmacological benefits of lemons and limes are good additions to dressings! Larger in size but are usually more bitter flavor know if you plan to enjoy a margarita marinades, texture... Article examines the benefits and myths related to lemon water detox, to be sweeter, while limes are in! Into this area is ongoing many hot or cold drinks not in the table.... Vitamin C. citric acid makes up 5 percent to 6 percent of the same puckered facial.. Common ingredients in a whole lemon or lime, the two fruits are used … Nutrition,! Whether these fruits, including potassium, folate, and many other dishes and slightly more bitter flavor for! Hot or cold drinks of your dishes to see lemons in sweet dishes due their... Juice is popular conditions in humans has powerful health benefits is 30, consequently meaning that a of. — for their medicinal benefits ( 3 ), such as for heart and. Ways that lemons are usually more bitter be a good substitute for lemon juice contains around grams. Infused simple syrup claim that consuming lemon, or lemon-based products, can help with weight loss and! Very healthy fruit that is high in citric acid detox leads to glowing skin… other drinks citric fruits erode... Along with vitamin C and fiber pretty — they ’ re also included in many household cleaning products are,! Gerd ) marinades, and products are available, from bleaches to surface cleaners as chunks Slices!