Lemon is such a great addition to our diet. It can be used in so many different recipes and beverages that you will not have a problem finding a way to include it into your daily routine. Not only is lemon cleansing and great for detoxing, but it is rich in antioxidants and excellent for our immune system.
Lemon contains vitamins like vitamin C, B, riboflavin and minerals like calcium, phosphorus, magnesium as well as proteins and carbohydrates. Daily consumption of lemon water provides a number of health benefits and is beneficial both internally and externally. We can even use lemon as an after shampoo rinse for an added shine! Here are other benefits of this amazing citrus fruit:
Lemon cleanses the digestive tract
Lemon balances your stomach acid levels for better nutrient absorption -- this means you get more energy from the food you eat
Lemon provides a boost of Vitamin C (which carries off toxins and waste) and strengthens the immune system
Lemon juice helps detoxify the liver so it can burn more fat!
I would recommend drinking a cup of warm lemon every morning as soon as you wake up. This will jump start your metabolism and get your body ready for the day ahead. You will be amazed at how much more resistant you will be to colds, flu and just plain feeling run-down!
Recipe 1: Morning Lemon Water
Juice of 1/2 small, sweet lemon, organic
Hot water, 8 oz
Few drops of stevia (Sweet Leaf brand or any other). You can also use a packet of the powder version
You can also make a cooler summer version and turn this recipe into a lemonade.
For an added kick, try a sprinkle of cayenne pepper.
Recipe 2: Watermelon Lemonade
6 cups 1-inch cubes seedless watermelon (from about a 5-pound melon)
2 Cups of Fresh Squeezed Lemon Juice (preferred) or 1 bottle (10-ounce) Organic Lemon Juice
6 cups water
Stevia (about 4 packets or to taste)
Crushed ice
Mint sprigs, for garnish
Working in batches as necessary, purée watermelon and lemon juice in blender until smooth;
transfer to a large container. Add water and stevia; stir until dissolved.
Pour over ice in tall glasses, garnish with mint and thin slices of watermelon and serve.
Recipe 3: Lemon Treats (Makes about 18)
Tart lemon, nutty walnuts and sesame seeds, rich coconut and smooth, sweet dates come together to make these delightfully refreshing treats.
1 cup chopped pitted dates
1 cup raw walnuts
1 cup sesame seeds
1/4 cup organic lemon juice
2 teaspoons freshly grated lemon zest
1/2 cup unsweetened dried coconut flakes
Place dates, walnuts, sesame seeds, lemon juice and zest in a food processor. Pulse and blend until completely mixed. The mixture will be slightly sticky. With dampened hands, roll tablespoons of the mixture into balls. Roll in coconut and chill until ready to serve.
(See more great lemon recipes at whole foods - http://www.wholefoodsmarket.com/recipes)
