Lemon juice is often called the liver's best friend. It is one of the only foods on the planet that has an atomic structure similar to that of digestive juices. As a result, putting lemon juice in your water can provide your liver with some relief as it filters toxins and processes nutrients.
Significance
You are exposed to chemicals in almost every facet of life. You breathe in pollutants and fumes from cars, factories, building materials, furniture and mold; absorb chemicals in shampoos, laundry detergents and lotions; and eat preservatives, additives and insecticides on a daily basis. The liver is your body's primary means to remove these toxins from your bloodstream. Thus, the more you can do to help your liver better perform its job, the better.
Prevention/Solution
According to the American Liver Foundation, liver disease is the seventh leading cause of death in the United States, and over 25 million Americans have liver-related disease. The leading causes include viruses, hereditary defects and adverse drug reactions. However, the liver is the only organ that can actually regenerate. Furthermore, a healthy diet that includes alkaline foods that support liver function aid in this process and help the liver create new tissue. Interestingly, although lemons are high in acidic content, they are also one of the most alkaline foods available, making them one of the best ways to encourage liver regeneration.
Benefits
Lemon juice supports liver function by strengthening liver enzymes, regulating blood carbohydrate levels and serving as the basis for new enzyme creation. According to A.F. Beddoe, author of "Biological Ionization in Human Nutrition," fresh lemon juice works better at helping your liver make more enzymes than any other food. In addition, lemon is a natural antiseptic that kills harmful bacteria. It's also an antioxidant that can stabilize free radicals as they are released into the bloodstream during the digestive process.
History
Lemons were originally cultivated in India and China about 2,500 years. During the eleventh century, Arabs introduced the fruit to Spain during their travels there. Later, the Crusaders found lemons growing in Palestine and brought them to several other regions throughout Europe. In 1493, the fruit was carried to the Americas by Christopher Columbus during his second voyage to the New World. Today, lemons are mainly produced in the United States, Israel, Spain, Greece, Italy and Turkey.
Types
It's relatively simple to introduce lemons into your diet. Kick-start your day by squeezing fresh lemon juice into a cup of hot water. Make a pitcher of lemon juice diluted with water and drink several glasses throughout the day. Alternatively, add a lemon wedge to each glass of water you consume. There are also pre-made lemon teas and a variety of bottled lemon juices available. Just be sure to select one that is not from concentrate with no sugar added.
References
- American Liver Foundation
- The World's Healthiest Foods: Lemons/Limes
- "Biological Ionization As Applied to Human Nutrition"; Dr. Alexander F. Beddoe; 2002
- "L.M. College of Pharmacy Journal"; Investigation into Hepatoprotective Activity of Citrus Limon"; Shefalee K. Bhavsar, et al.; April 2007
- "Time" magazine; Environmental Toxins; Bryan Walsh; April 2010
