Lemons are an excellent source of vitamin C, which studies suggest help boost the immune system and protects against arthritis.Lemons are high in antioxidants and may have anti-cancer properties. Limonoids in citrus fruit have been shown to fight cancers of the mouth, skin, lung, breast, stomach and colon. There is some research suggesting that limonoids may also play a role in lowering cholesterol.
Lemons are readily available and can be purchased fresh all year. Look for lemons that are heavy for their size and store them away from sunlight.
Lemon-Mint Smoothie
Ingredient
- 1/2 lemon, peeled
- 1 cup honeydew melon
- 1 pear
- 1-2 tablespoons of chopped fresh mint to taste
- 2 cups fresh baby spinach (or other leafy green)
- 1/2 cup water
Strawberry-Lemonade Smoothie
Ingredient
- ½ teaspoon lemon zest
- 1/2 lemon, peeled
- 6 large strawberries
- 2 cups fresh baby spinach (or other leafy green)
- 1 banana
- 1/2 cup water
Tangy Lemon-Mango Smoothie
Ingredient
- 1/2 lemon, peeled
- 1 mango
- ½ apple
- 2 cups fresh baby spinach (or other leafy green)
- 1/2 cup water
Creamy Lemon-Banana Smoothie
Ingredient
- 1/2 lemon, peeled
- 1 banana
- 1 pear
- 2 cups fresh baby spinach (or other leafy green)
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 tsp agave nectar (optional)*
Lemon Honey Smoothies
INGREDIENTS:
- 1 cup low fat French vanilla yogurt
- 1 cup ice cubes
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon grate fresh ginger
- 2 teaspoons grated lemon zest
- 1/8 teaspoon ground turmeric
DIRECTIONS:
In blender, combine all ingredients; blend until smooth. Serve immediately.