English
Deutsch
Français
Italiano
Español
Polski
Română
Nederlands
Português
Svenska
Dansk
Lemon and gut health
Lemon is a citrus fruit often used for its fresh flavor and vitamin C content. For the gut, lemon is not equally well tolerated by everyone. The presence of small amounts of fructose and sorbitol, its ability to trigger histamine release, and possible allergic reactions make lemon a point of attention for those with digestive complaints or intolerances.
- Contains small amounts of fructose and sorbitol (FODMAPs)
- Can stimulate histamine release and contains other amines
- Not suitable for histamine intolerance
- Low fiber content, minimal prebiotic effect
- Citrus allergy possible, especially in sensitive individuals
FODMAPs in lemon
Lemon naturally contains small amounts of fructose and sorbitol, both FODMAPs that can cause symptoms in sensitive guts. In normal portions, such as a slice or some juice in water, the amount usually remains low enough to avoid problems. Larger amounts or people with pronounced FODMAP intolerance may experience bloating, abdominal pain, or diarrhea.
| FODMAPs | Level | Portion Guidance |
|---|---|---|
|
Monosaccharides (Fructose)
|
Low–Moderate |
|
|
Disaccharides (Lactose)
|
Low | — |
|
Fructooligosaccharides (Fructans)
|
Low | — |
|
Galactooligosaccharides (GOS)
|
Low | — |
|
Polyols (Mannitol)
|
Low | — |
|
Polyols (Sorbitol)
|
Low–Moderate |
|
Histamine and lemon
Lemon itself contains little histamine but is known as a strong histamine liberator. This means that after consuming lemon, the body can release extra histamine, which causes symptoms in people with histamine intolerance. Lemon also contains other biogenic amines that can intensify complaints. Lemon is therefore not recommended on a low-histamine diet.
| Histamine & Related | Level | Portion Guidance |
|---|---|---|
|
Histamine Level
|
Low–Moderate |
|
|
Other Biogenic Amines
|
Moderate |
|
|
Histamine Liberator
|
High | — |
|
DAO Blocker
|
Low | — |
Citrus allergy and hypersensitivity
Allergic reactions to lemon are uncommon but possible. Symptoms include itching, swelling of the mouth, or skin reactions. People with a citrus allergy or cross-reactions with pollen should be cautious. Lemon can also irritate the mucous membranes in sensitive individuals, which may worsen symptoms in irritable bowel syndrome.
Details
- Absent Wheat / Spelt
- Absent Rye
- Absent Barley
- Absent Oats
Details
- Absent Crabs
- Absent Prawns
- Absent Shrimp
- Absent Lobsters
- Absent Crayfish
Details
- Absent Almonds
- Absent Brazil Nuts
- Absent Cashews
- Absent Hazelnuts
- Absent Macadamia Nuts
- Absent Pecans
- Absent Pistachios
- Absent Walnuts
Details
- Absent Clams
- Absent Mussels
- Absent Octopus
- Absent Oysters
- Absent Snails
- Absent Squid
Fiber content and effect on the gut microbiome
Lemon contains little fiber, especially if only the juice is used. The pulp provides some soluble fiber, but this is limited compared to other fruits. The prebiotic effect of lemon is therefore minimal and contributes little to nourishing the microbiome.
Total Fiber
Lemon and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
For people with IBS, lemon can often be used in small amounts without problems. However, the FODMAPs and histamine-releasing effect can trigger symptoms in some people. Always test with a small amount and increase slowly to see how your gut responds.