It is common knowledge that having lemon water is beneficial but it can be more difficult to find lemons here on Koh Phangan as they are not indigenous so do not grow here. Of course you can get imported lemons from larger supermarkets but we all know it is best to eat and drink locally grown produce which is where our little green friend the lime comes in to play.
Limes are an addition to many Thai meals, you will be offered a wedge with your fried rice which is super nice when squeezed on top and it is a great zesty addition to cocktails and other foods.
Have you discovered the humble lime in your water though?
Here on Koh Phangan and Thailand we need to keep ourselves hydrated as it is so hot and adding a wedge and squeeze of lime makes our plain H2O tasty, fresh, sweet and sour. They are also inexpensive, usually you can get 5 limes for roughly 20 Baht.
Low Inflammation
Limes have amazing antioxidant properties, thanks to the presence of vitamin C, flavonoids, compounds known as limonoids and volatile essential oils.
These antioxidants can help to lower inflammation throughout your body and keep it under control which is essential to good health. Drinking lime juice in water regularly is a great way to prevent chronic inflammation.
Power up your metabolism!
There are compounds in citrus fruits like the lime that may help to speed up your metabolism. Drinking a glass of lime water before you start your day, or before you exercise, may help to kick your metabolism into higher gear.
Boost your immune system
Limes are rich in vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant vitamin known to boost immunity. If you drink a squeeze of fresh lime juice in water every day, you’ll be setting your immune system up for optimal function. This will help you stay away from those nasty illnesses once cold and flu season hits.
Help to keep you young
Vitamin C is known to be a very important vitamin for skin health. After all, vitamin C is needed for your body to produce collagen, this is the foundation of our skin, tissues and bones. Drinking lime water can, as discussed, help to lower inflammation all throughout your body, and this includes your skin.
When your skin is healthy and your body produces collagen optimally, you’ll naturally look more radiant and your skin will be smoother. This can make you look, and feel, great.
It tastes great!
Lime water tastes amazing and adds to the ‘refreshment factor’ in water.Drink it whenever you like, in the morning, evening or throughout the day!
Limes are readily available all throughout the year here on the island, the best places are the local markets or family run shops to purchase from. Enjoy your limes and Ma Naao for now...
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