In 1747, James Lind found that lemons and oranges were extremely effective at treated the disease, which we know was caused by a vitamin C deficiency from months at sea without any fresh produce.
Lemons are rarely consumed as a stand-alone fruit due to their intense sour flavor but are extremely popular when used in smaller quantities and in combination with herbs and spices to lend a wonderful and dynamic flavor to many sauces, salad dressings, marinades, drinks and desserts.
This MNT Knowledge Center feature is part of a collection of articles on the health benefits of popular foods. It provides a nutritional breakdown of lemons and an in-depth look at their possible health benefits, how to incorporate more lemons into your diet and any potential health risks of consuming lemons.