Lemon Fruit Concentrate
Also known as: Lemon fruit concentrate, Lemon extract, Citrus concentrate, Citrus limon
Overview
Lemon fruit concentrate is a potent dietary supplement derived from the fruit of *Citrus limon*. It is produced by concentrating lemon juice or peel extract, resulting in a rich source of beneficial phytochemicals, including flavonoids (such as hesperidin, eriocitrin, and diosmin), vitamin C (ascorbic acid), and citric acid. This concentrate is utilized for its potential roles in weight management, cardiovascular health, and its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Research indicates a moderate level of evidence supporting its efficacy, particularly for the citrus flavonoids it contains, in improving endothelial function and contributing to modest weight reduction. It is classified as a botanical extract, phytochemical supplement, and functional food ingredient.
Benefits
Lemon fruit concentrate offers several evidence-based benefits, primarily due to its rich flavonoid content. A meta-analysis of 13 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) involving 921 participants demonstrated that citrus extracts, including those from lemon, significantly reduced body weight by 1.28 kg, BMI by 0.32 kg/m², waist circumference by 2.19 cm, and hip circumference by 2.14 cm over at least 4 weeks. These reductions, while modest, are considered clinically relevant for individuals managing weight. Furthermore, a systematic review and dose-response meta-analysis of 8 RCTs (596 participants) showed that citrus flavonoid supplementation significantly improved flow-mediated vasodilation (FMD) by 2.75%, indicating enhanced endothelial function and reduced cardiovascular risk. Each 200 mg/day increment in citrus flavonoids was associated with a 1.09% increase in FMD. Some studies also suggest potential improvements in muscle mass and reductions in fat mass, though these findings are more varied. These benefits are most notable in overweight and obese adults, as well as those with cardiovascular risk factors, with effects typically observed after 4 to 12 weeks of consistent supplementation.
How it works
Lemon fruit concentrate exerts its effects primarily through its rich content of citrus flavonoids and vitamin C. These compounds modulate adipocyte function, influencing fat cell metabolism. They also inhibit inflammatory pathways, such as the expression of Toll-like receptor 2 (TLR2), contributing to anti-inflammatory effects. In the cardiovascular system, citrus flavonoids enhance nitric oxide bioavailability in endothelial cells by affecting endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS), leading to improved vasodilation and endothelial function. They also interact with metabolic tissues like adipose tissue and muscle, and may influence AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) pathways. The flavonoids have moderate oral bioavailability, with their metabolites circulating systemically to exert these biological actions.
Side effects
Lemon fruit concentrate is generally considered safe for consumption, with a low incidence of adverse effects reported in clinical studies. No significant common side effects (occurring in >5% of users) have been identified. Mild gastrointestinal discomfort is an uncommon side effect, reported in 1-5% of users. Rare side effects (occurring in <1% of users) include allergic reactions, particularly in individuals with known sensitivities to citrus fruits, which is also a contraindication for use. While no major drug interactions have been definitively reported, caution is advised for individuals taking medications metabolized by cytochrome P450 enzymes, as flavonoids can potentially influence these pathways. Specific safety data for pregnant or lactating women are limited, therefore, caution is recommended for these populations. Overall, the safety profile is favorable at the doses typically studied.
Dosage
The minimum effective dose for lemon fruit concentrate, specifically for its citrus flavonoid content, appears to be around 200 mg/day for benefits related to endothelial function. For weight control, effective doses have varied across studies, but beneficial effects have been observed within the context of meta-analyses. Optimal dosage ranges can extend up to 1 g/day of citrus flavonoids, which has been used in some randomized controlled trials with positive outcomes on body composition. The maximum safe dose has not been firmly established, but doses up to 1 g/day are generally well-tolerated. Daily supplementation, preferably taken with meals, is recommended to enhance absorption and bioavailability. For consistent efficacy, concentrates standardized for their flavonoid content are preferred. The vitamin C naturally present in lemon concentrate may also synergize with the flavonoids, contributing to its overall effects.
FAQs
Is lemon fruit concentrate effective for weight loss?
Yes, research indicates that citrus extracts, including lemon concentrate, can lead to modest reductions in body weight and waist circumference over several weeks.
Is it safe for long-term use?
It is generally safe at studied doses, but comprehensive long-term safety data beyond several months are limited.
When is the best time to take it?
Taking lemon fruit concentrate with meals is recommended to improve the absorption and bioavailability of its active compounds.
How soon can results be expected?
Benefits, such as improvements in weight and endothelial function, are typically observed after 4 weeks or more of consistent supplementation.
Does it interact with medications?
While no major interactions are reported, caution is advised with medications metabolized by cytochrome P450 enzymes. Consult a healthcare provider if you are on medication.
Research Sources
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32182635/ – This meta-analysis of 13 RCTs (n=921) investigated the effects of citrus and its extracts on anthropometric indices. It found significant reductions in body weight, BMI, waist, and hip circumference after at least 4 weeks of supplementation, suggesting a role for citrus in weight management despite high heterogeneity among studies.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38561995/ – This systematic review and dose-response meta-analysis of 8 RCTs (n=596) evaluated citrus flavonoid supplementation on endothelial function. It concluded that citrus flavonoids significantly improved flow-mediated vasodilation (FMD) and established a dose-response relationship, highlighting their cardiovascular benefits.
- https://academic.oup.com/nutritionreviews/article/82/9/1292/7272715 – This narrative review explores the role of citrus fruits in energy metabolism, including findings from RCTs. It suggests that citrus supplementation may improve muscle mass and reduce fat mass in some trials, though results on lipid profiles and insulin resistance were mixed, indicating varied effects depending on study design and population.
- https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/ptr.6673 – This source is a duplicate of the first PubMed link provided, referring to the same meta-analysis by Zhang et al. (2020) on the effects of citrus and its extracts on anthropometric indices, confirming significant reductions in body weight and other measures.
- https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/ptr.8190 – This source is a duplicate of the second PubMed link provided, referring to the same systematic review and dose-response meta-analysis by Rahimi et al. (2024) on citrus flavonoid supplementation and endothelial function, confirming significant improvements in FMD.
Supplements Containing Lemon Fruit Concentrate
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