We’ve had an unusually warm winter here in Atlanta.  I’m certainly not complaining!  With two toddlers in the house it’s been nice to get outside and play without being bundled up in so many layers that you feel like the kid in A Christmas Story.  We all love lemon flavor in this house.  Whether it’s squeezed in our water, on pasta or fish, or in a dessert.  And once again, thanks to our friends at Barlean’s, I was able to add a little extra sweetness, flavor, and nutrition to this smoothie using their Lemon Zest Omega Swirl.  This smoothie is bright in color and flavor.

Lemons have many health and cosmetic benefits.  One lemon (without the peel) has 75% of your daily vitamin C, 2g of fiber, only 2 grams of sugar, and 30 calories.  Here are 10 great benefits we get from lemons.

1. High in vitamin C to fight against infection.
2. They are high in potassium – a potassium rich diet is essential for heart health.
3. Lemons, along with other citrus, are anti-carcinogenic which makes them good for fighting cancer.
4. Helps to lower blood pressure.
5. Lemon juice is said to help acne.
6. They are a powerful antioxidant which rid the body of free radicals.
7. Lemons are excellent at fighting throat infections.
8. They work as a blood purifier.
9. Lemon juice mixed with olive oil may help dissolve gallstones.
10. Lemon juice is a diuretic and believed to be effective in aiding weight loss, gout, and arthritis.

Enjoy!

Happy Smoothie Saturday.