Don't throw away the lemon peel, use it to benefit from its amazing nutritional properties.
You do it without thinking: you peel a lemon, use its juice and the peel goes straight into the trash. An automatic gesture that could be depriving you of a concentrated source of antioxidants, fiber and bioactive compounds with very beneficial effects for the body. While we squeeze every drop of its interior, its skin retains substances with anti-inflammatory and digestive properties that, through ignorance, we waste on a daily basis. And it is not just theory; in fact, some scientific studies indicate that certain fruits contain a higher concentration of nutrients in their skin than in their pulp. This is not a new idea, but a knowledge that many cuisines around the world have known how to take advantage of for centuries. In many cultures, fruit peels play a starring role in traditional recipes, from Mexican tepache to banana chutney in India. Even pectin, present in apple and citrus peel, is key in baking to give consistency and natural shine to jams and jellies. So why do we continue to ignore the potential of something we have at our fingertips and tend to discard? Perhaps because no one has shown us, until now, what benefits there are to consuming lemon peel or how to integrate it into our diet in a simple way. But that is about to change.
Nutritional benefits of consuming lemon peel
Lemon peel is a concentrated source of bioactive compounds that provide multiple benefits to our health.
- Rich in nutrients: Lemon peel, as well as other citrus fruits, contains a high concentration of phenolic compounds, mainly flavonoids such as diosmin and hesperidin, and phenolic acids such as ferulic and synaptic acids. These compounds have antioxidant properties that help neutralize free radicals in the body.
- Strengthening the immune system: Thanks to its vitamin C content and other antioxidants, lemon peel contributes to strengthening the immune system, helping to prevent common diseases.
- Healthy digestion: Compounds present in lemon peel, such as flavonoids, have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that can promote healthy and balanced digestion.
- Elimination of toxins: The antioxidants present in lemon peel aid the body in the elimination of toxins, promoting natural detoxification and improving overall health.
- Weight loss: Lemon peel consumption can contribute to weight loss by being a source of dietary fiber, which helps increase satiety and regulate appetite.
How to include lemon peel in our diet
Incorporating lemon zest in our culinary preparations is easier than it seems. Here are some ideas:
- Zest for desserts and drinks: lemon zest is ideal for adding a citrus touch to desserts such as cakes, biscuits and cookies. It can also be added to beverages such as herbal teas and cocktails to enhance their flavor.
- Infusions and teas: Adding lemon peel to your infusions or teas not only improves the flavor, but also increases the contribution of antioxidants, favoring a healthy and refreshing drink.
- Flavored oil: Place lemon peels in a jar with extra virgin olive oil and let it sit in a cool, dark place for at least one night. This flavored oil is perfect for marinating meats, fish or dressing salads.
- Dry seasoning: Dry lemon peels and grind them to a fine powder. This condiment can be used to season a wide variety of dishes, providing a fresh citrus touch.
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Patricia
