The back of a lemon, or the lemon peel, is indeed good! It's often discarded, but it offers significant nutritional and health benefits.
Nutritional Powerhouse: The Benefits of Lemon Peel
Contrary to popular belief, the often-discarded lemon peel is a nutritional powerhouse. It's packed with beneficial compounds that contribute to overall well-being.
- Fiber: Lemon peel is a good source of dietary fiber, which aids digestion and promotes gut health.
- Vitamins: It contains various vitamins, including vitamin C, known for its immune-boosting properties.
- Antioxidants: The peel is rich in antioxidants, which combat harmful free radicals in the body and may help protect against cellular damage. These antioxidants contribute to potential benefits for oral, immune, and heart health.
- Potential Anticancer Properties: Research suggests that lemon peel may even possess anticancer properties, although more research is needed to confirm these effects.
How to Use Lemon Peel:
While you can eat the peel directly (ensure it's organically grown and thoroughly washed), it's often incorporated into recipes in the following ways:
- Zest: Grate the outer layer (avoiding the white pith) to add flavor and aroma to baked goods, sauces, and beverages.
- Candied Lemon Peel: A delicious treat made by simmering lemon peel in sugar syrup.
- Infused Oils and Vinegars: Add lemon peel to oils or vinegars to infuse them with citrus flavor.
The information provided states that lemon peel, which is the back of the lemon, possesses numerous health benefits due to its fiber, vitamin, and antioxidant content. It may support oral, immune, and heart health, and potentially even have anticancer properties.
