Mary Ann's Blog
Lemon Aid
May 31, 2011
I don’t think there is anything more refreshing on a hot summer’s day than a glass of homemade lemonade. So, why is the American public is fascinated with Vitamin Water?It’s as hot as Lady Gaga!
Supermarkets are selling lemons at three for a dollar while a sixteen ounce bottle of Vitamin Water is just under $2. That’s a really hefty price tag for frequently downing something that is mostly sugar and water with some artificial color added. Why do we fall for such gimmicks? Blame Madison Avenue and its shrewd marketing skills, I suppose. Isn’t it obvious? Say vitamins and well, you can’t help but think healthy. Here are some facts that might make you squeeze lemons instead of your budget when it comes to your health:
A bottle of Vitamin Water contains a lot of fructose, high fructose corn syrup, in other words, sugar; a whopping eight teaspoons of sugar is in a single bottle of Vitamin Water.
Your doctor will tell you that this is one of the worst things to consume, and let’s face it, fructose is in most of the carbohydrates we eat. No gain there. And calories? 125 in a bottle. Conclusion: Vitamin Water is no better for you than a can of soda. Save your money and get your vitamins from real foods.
It so happens that real lemons are more refreshing and beneficial than vitamin drinks. They are packed with vitamin C, citric acid, and potassium, and they help to maintain bone health. Lemon juice is also a diuretic, and has been used to give relief to those suffering from kidney stones.
In an Italian kitchen, lemons are a necessity for everything from marinades to just a squirt on grilled meats, vegetables and fruit. Add it to your baking and icings. Keep a bagful of lemons in your refrigerator at all times and enjoy real vitamins from real foods.
To get the most juice from lemons, let them come to room temperature then roll them around on your cutting board under the palm of your hands. Put them in the microwave for 15 seconds, then cut and squeeze.
Fresh Low Calorie Lemonade
Makes 10 servings
1 ½ cups fresh squeezed lemon juice (10-12 lemons)
1 ½ quarts filtered water
Honey
Combine the lemon juice and water in a large glass container with a lid. Shake well and refrigerate for several hours. Pour into individual glasses and stir in honey to taste.
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