If you are looking for a refreshing beverage that can also add flavor to your recipes, lime juice is a great option. In 100g of unsweetened, canned, or bottled lime juice, you can find 21 calories. Lime juice is not only low in calories, but it is also packed with various nutrients that offer numerous health benefits.

Lime juice is a rich source of vitamin C, which is essential for boosting your immune system and protecting your cells from damage caused by free radicals. Additionally, it contains high levels of antioxidants, which help reduce inflammation and improve digestion. Lime juice also provides small amounts of minerals like calcium, potassium, and iron.

In this article, we'll explore the nutritional content of lime juice and discuss its benefits, usage in cooking, and potential health risks. You'll also learn how to choose the right lime juice, store it properly, and even make cocktails with it.

Calories in 100g Lime Juice

As mentioned before, in 100g of unsweetened, canned, or bottled lime juice, there are 21 calories. Compared to other fruit juices, such as orange juice, lime juice is relatively low in calories. However, it is important to note that if you add sugar or other sweeteners to your lime juice, the calorie count can increase significantly.

Carbohydrates in Lime Juice

Lime juice contains a small amount of carbohydrates, most of which come from natural sugars. In 100g of lime juice, there are approximately 5 grams of carbohydrates. If you need to limit your carbohydrate intake, it's important to keep in mind that some lime juice brands may contain added sugar or other sweeteners that can significantly increase the carbohydrate content.

Vitamins in Lime Juice

As mentioned earlier, lime juice is a rich source of vitamin C, which is essential for maintaining a healthy immune system and promoting wound healing. A 100g serving of lime juice can provide up to 30% of your daily recommended intake of vitamin C. Lime juice also contains small amounts of other vitamins, such as vitamin B6 and folate.

Minerals in Lime Juice

Lime juice contains several important minerals, including potassium, calcium, and iron. Potassium is essential for regulating blood pressure and maintaining healthy nerve function, while calcium is crucial for maintaining strong bones and teeth. Iron is necessary for forming red blood cells that carry oxygen throughout your body.

Benefits of Lime Juice

Drinking lime juice regularly can provide numerous health benefits. The high levels of vitamin C and antioxidants in lime juice can help boost your immune system and reduce inflammation throughout your body. Some studies have also suggested that lime juice may have antibacterial and antiviral properties, which can help prevent infections. Lime juice may also aid in digestion by stimulating the production of digestive juices and enzymes in your stomach. Additionally, some research has suggested that lime juice can help reduce blood sugar levels and lower your risk of developing type 2 diabetes.

Usage of Lime Juice in Cooking

Lime juice is a versatile ingredient that can add flavor and acidity to a wide range of dishes. It is commonly used in marinades, salad dressings, sauces, and ceviche. Lime juice can also be added to cocktails, smoothies, and other beverages to give them a tangy, refreshing taste. When cooking with lime juice, it's important to balance its acidity with other ingredients to prevent overpowering the dish. It's also important to note that lime juice should be added towards the end of the cooking process, as prolonged heat exposure can cause it to lose its flavor and nutrients.

Making Cocktails with Lime Juice

Lime juice is a key ingredient in many classic cocktails, such as the margarita, mojito, and daiquiri. To make a margarita, combine 2 oz of tequila, 1 oz of lime juice, and 1 oz of triple sec in a shaker with ice. Shake well, then strain into a salt-rimmed glass over ice. For a mojito, muddle fresh mint leaves and lime wedges in a glass, then add 2 oz of rum, 1 oz of lime juice, and 1 oz of simple syrup. Top with soda water and ice, and garnish with more mint leaves and lime wedges.

Choosing the Right Lime Juice

When selecting a lime juice, it's important to choose one that is 100% juice and unsweetened. Some brands may contain added sugar or other sweeteners, which can significantly increase the calorie and carbohydrate content. You may also want to choose a lime juice that is organic or free of preservatives if you prefer a more natural product. If you prefer fresh lime juice, you can easily squeeze your own at home using a citrus juicer or a handheld reamer. Fresh lime juice can offer more flavor and nutrients than bottled juice, but it may be less convenient and have a shorter shelf life.

Storing Lime Juice

If you're using bottled or canned lime juice, it should be stored in the refrigerator after opening to ensure its freshness and prevent spoilage. Fresh lime juice should also be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator and used within a few days. To increase the shelf life of fresh lime juice, you can freeze it in ice cube trays and store the cubes in a plastic bag in the freezer. When you need lime juice for a recipe, simply thaw a cube and use as directed.

Health Risks of Lime Juice

While lime juice is generally safe for most people to consume, some individuals may have an allergic reaction or experience side effects, such as heartburn or upset stomach. Additionally, drinking large amounts of lime juice or using it excessively in your cooking may cause tooth erosion due to its high acidity. If you have a history of kidney stones, you may want to limit your intake of lime juice or other acidic foods, as they can increase the risk of developing new stones.