Lime Wedges: Calories, Nutrition and Health Benefits

Nature's tangy boost of vitamin C and flavor with virtually zero calories, perfect for hydration, immunity, and zesty garnish.

Quick Nutrition Facts

Per 100g (Approximately 2-3 Wedges)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	30 kcal
Protein	0.7g
Carbohydrates	10.5g
Fiber	2.8g
Sugars	1.7g
Fat	0.2g
Vitamin C	29.1mg
Calcium	33mg
Potassium	102mg
Folate	8mcg

Macronutrient Breakdown

NUTRITIONIST INSIGHT

Lime wedges provide 32% of your daily vitamin C needs in just 100g with only 30 calories. The citric acid aids digestion and iron absorption, making lime water an excellent morning ritual.

Myth Busters

MYTH #1: Lime Water Burns Fat

TRUTH: Lime water doesn't directly "burn" fat. However, vitamin C supports fat oxidation during exercise and staying hydrated aids metabolism. The real benefit is replacing high-calorie beverages.

MYTH #2: Limes Are Too Acidic for Daily Consumption

TRUTH: While limes are acidic (pH 2-3), they have an alkalizing effect on the body once metabolized. The citric acid actually aids digestion. Only avoid if you have acid reflux or sensitive teeth.

MYTH #3: Lime and Lemon Are Nutritionally Identical

TRUTH: Limes have slightly less vitamin C than lemons (29mg vs 53mg per 100g) but more calcium (33mg vs 26mg). Both are excellent; choose based on taste preference.

MYTH #4: Hot Water Destroys Vitamin C in Lime

TRUTH: Vitamin C degrades at high temperatures, but warm water (not boiling) preserves most nutrients. Use lukewarm water for maximum vitamin C retention.

MYTH #5: Lime Water Whitens Teeth

TRUTH: The opposite is true. Citric acid can erode tooth enamel over time. Always rinse with plain water after consuming lime, wait 30 minutes before brushing, and use a straw for lime water.

NutriScore by Health Goals

Health Goal	NutriScore	Why This Score?
Weight Loss		Only 30 calories per 100g, adds flavor to water/salads without calories, vitamin C supports fat metabolism.
Muscle Gain		Vitamin C aids collagen production for joint health; potassium prevents cramps; use in post-workout drinks.
Diabetes Management		Zero glycemic impact, vitamin C improves glycemic control, safe for unlimited consumption.
PCOS Management		Anti-inflammatory antioxidants, vitamin C reduces oxidative stress, supports hormone balance.
Pregnancy Nutrition		Vitamin C enhances iron absorption crucial during pregnancy; folate supports fetal development.
Viral/Flu Recovery		High vitamin C boosts immunity, hydration from lime water, antioxidants fight infection.

PERSONALIZED NUTRITION

Track your meals with NutriScan for personalized NutriScores based on your specific health goals!

Cultural Significance

Limes originated in Southeast Asia and spread globally through trade routes, becoming essential in tropical cuisines worldwide.

In India:

Essential in Indian cuisine: nimbu pani (lime water), pickles (nimbu ka achar), chutneys
Used in Ayurveda for digestion, detoxification, and cooling properties
Spiritual significance: offered in pujas, used in rituals to ward off evil eye
Regional varieties: Kagzi lime (common), Gondhoraj lime (aromatic Bengali variety)

Global Impact:

Key ingredient in Mexican, Thai, Vietnamese, and Caribbean cuisines
Essential for cocktails: mojitos, margaritas, caipirinhas
Used in cleaning products for natural acidity and fresh scent
India is the world's largest lime producer (16% of global production)

Compare & Substitute

Lime Wedges vs Similar Citrus (Per 100g)

Nutrient	🍋 Lime Wedges	🍋 Lemon	🍊 Orange	🍊 Grapefruit
Calories	30 kcal	29 kcal	47 kcal	42 kcal
Carbs	10.5g	9.3g	11.8g	10.7g
Fiber	2.8g	2.8g	2.4g	1.6g
Protein	0.7g	1.1g	0.9g	0.8g
Fat	0.2g	0.3g	0.1g	0.1g
Vitamin C	29.1mg	53mg	53.2mg	31.2mg
Calcium	33mg	26mg	40mg	22mg
Potassium	102mg	138mg	181mg	135mg
Best For	Tangy flavor, Indian dishes	Vitamin C boost, versatility	Natural sweetness, juice	Weight loss, bitterness

Frequently Asked Questions

Are lime wedges good for weight loss?

Yes, lime wedges are excellent for weight loss. With only 30 calories per 100g and 2.8g of fiber, they add flavor to water, salads, and dishes without adding significant calories. Lime water helps you stay hydrated and feel full, reducing calorie intake from sugary beverages.

Best practices: Add 2-3 lime wedges to water daily, use as salad dressing with herbs, squeeze over grilled proteins for flavor without calories.

Can diabetics eat lime wedges?

Yes, diabetics can freely consume lime wedges. With a glycemic index of 0-10, limes have virtually no impact on blood sugar. The vitamin C and antioxidants actually support diabetes management.

Tips for diabetics: Unlimited consumption is safe; use lime water to stay hydrated; add to meals for enhanced flavor without affecting blood sugar; vitamin C may improve insulin sensitivity.

How much vitamin C is in lime wedges?

100g of lime (approximately 2-3 wedges) provides 29.1mg of vitamin C, which is 32% of the daily recommended value. One whole lime (67g) contains about 20mg of vitamin C.

For maximum vitamin C intake, consume lime juice fresh (vitamin C degrades over time) and pair with iron-rich foods like spinach or lentils for enhanced iron absorption.

What are the main health benefits of lime wedges?

Key Benefits:

Immune Support: 32% DV of vitamin C boosts immunity and fights infections
Digestive Health: Citric acid stimulates digestive enzymes and bile production
Skin Health: Vitamin C promotes collagen synthesis for youthful skin
Weight Management: Adds flavor with minimal calories, supports hydration
Alkalizing Effect: Despite acidity, metabolizes to alkaline compounds supporting pH balance
Antioxidant Protection: Flavonoids and limonoids fight free radicals

Can I eat lime wedges on empty stomach?

Yes, lime water on empty stomach is generally beneficial for most people. It aids digestion, alkalizes the body, and provides hydration to kickstart metabolism.

When to avoid:

Acid Reflux/GERD: Citric acid can trigger symptoms
Sensitive Teeth: Acid may cause discomfort; use a straw
Stomach Ulcers: May irritate stomach lining

Better approach: Dilute juice of 1 lime in warm water; drink 30 minutes before breakfast; rinse mouth with plain water after.

How many lime wedges should I eat per day?

General Guidelines:

2-4 wedges daily (juice of 1-2 limes) - Most people for vitamin C and flavor
1-2 limes - Weight loss and hydration goals
Unlimited - Diabetes, as garnish, or flavoring (negligible impact)

Special considerations: Athletes may use 3-4 limes for electrolyte balance; those with acid reflux should limit to 1 lime; always rinse mouth after to protect tooth enamel.

What's the difference between lime and lemon?

Nutritional Differences (per 100g):

Vitamin C: Lemon has 53mg vs lime's 29mg
Calcium: Lime has 33mg vs lemon's 26mg
Taste: Lime is more bitter and aromatic; lemon is more sour

Usage: Limes are preferred in Asian, Indian, Latin American cuisines; lemons in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern dishes. Both are nutritionally excellent; choose based on flavor preference.