Unlocking the Full Benefits of Lemons
The peel of a lemon actually contains 5 to 10 times more vitamins than the juice. Dr. Marilyn Glenville, a nutritionist and women’s health expert, told BBC Food that most of a fruit’s antioxidants are concentrated in the peel and the white pith, not the juice.
Specifically, lemon peel, pith, and pulp are rich in flavonoids, limonoids, phenolic acids, carotenoids, and dietary fiber—all of which contribute to better health.
Dr. Glenville recommends making smoothies rather than juices because smoothies retain the entire fruit, including the nutrient-rich peel. However, citrus peels can taste quite bitter, making smoothies with lemons a bit challenging to enjoy.
