Research from the Department of Horticultural Sciences at Texas A&M University revealed that citrus limonoids found in lemons may help prevent hormone-related can.cers, like estrogen-sensitive breast can.cer.
Additionally, compounds called coumarins in lemons act as chemopreventive agents by reducing the formation of harmful radicals.
The fruit also contains polyphenols—natural compounds known to have at least 100 beneficial effects on can.cer cells, including strong antioxidant properties, according to Professor Will Steward of Leicester University’s clinical oncology department.
More impressively, limonoids not only help prevent can.cer but also encourage can.cer cells to self-destruct within 12 hours. The effective dose is roughly equal to a glass of citrus juice.
Current research suggests lemons may aid in the prevention and even treatment of several can.cers, including those of the mouth, stomach, colon, breast, and certain pediatric can.cers.
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.
A Clever Way to Use Whole Lemons: Freeze Them
Here’s how to freeze lemons so you can benefit from the entire fruit, without the bitter aftertaste:
1. Wash the lemons thoroughly and disinfect them with apple cider vinegar.
2. Rinse and dry them well.
3. Freeze overnight.
4. Once frozen solid, grate the entire lemon peel, pulp, seeds, and all.
5. Store the grated lemon in an ice cube tray in the freezer for easy access.
Frozen lemon zest adds a burst of flavor to countless dishes—toss it into salads, yogurt, soups, pasta sauces, or even desserts like ice cream. Try it in smoothies, stir it into your tea, or use it as a vibrant ingredient in baked goods.
With so many options, making the most of your lemons has never been easier—or more beneficial to your health.
