What is the Nutritional Value of Lemon Juice?

The nutritional value of lemon juice is relatively low in terms of calories and macronutrients but contains several essential vitamins and minerals. Lemon juice is a popular citrus fruit juice that is often used as a flavoring agent, in cooking, and for making refreshing beverages.

Here’s the approximate nutritional value of 1 fluid ounce (about 30 milliliters) of fresh lemon juice:

  • Calories: 8 kcal
  • Carbohydrates: 2.6 g
  • Sugars: 0.6 g
  • Protein: 0.1 g
  • Fat: 0.1 g
  • Fiber: 0.1 g

In addition to the macronutrients, lemon juice is an excellent source of various vitamins and minerals, including:

  • Vitamin C: Lemon juice is particularly high in vitamin C (ascorbic acid). One fluid ounce of lemon juice can provide around 12 mg of vitamin C, which is about 20% of the daily recommended intake for adults.
  • Potassium: Lemon juice contains a small amount of potassium, an essential mineral that plays a role in maintaining healthy blood pressure and heart function.
  • Calcium: Lemon juice also contains a small amount of calcium, important for maintaining strong bones and teeth.
  • Phosphorus: Lemon juice contains trace amounts of phosphorus, an essential mineral involved in various physiological processes.
  • Folate: Lemon juice provides a small amount of folate (vitamin B9), which is essential for cell division and DNA synthesis.

While lemon juice may not be a significant source of calories or macronutrients, its high vitamin C content and other beneficial nutrients make it a healthy addition to a balanced diet. Lemon juice can be used to add flavor to dishes, as a dressing for salads, or simply mixed with water as a refreshing and hydrating drink.