Calories in Lime Juice: Nutritional facts for Lime Juice Types

One hundred grams (3.5oz) of raw lime juice contains 25 calories.

One kilogram (1,000g or 35.3oz) of raw lime juice contains 250 calories.

The juice of a small lime, weighing 20g (0.7oz), provides 5 calories. A medium lime produces 31g (1.1oz) of juice which contains 8 calories. The juice yield of a large lime, weighing 44g (1.6oz), contains 11 calories. 

Lime juice provides some health benefits like enhancing immune response and preventing the formation of kidney stones due to its high concentration of Vitamin C and citric acid. This liquid, often called green gold, lime nectar, or Persian lime extract, is a concentrated source of phytochemicals. A list of the health benefits of lime juice are shown below.

• Reduces Risk of Kidney Stones: Lime juice contains higher levels of citrate than most citrus fruits, which helps prevent kidney stones by binding to calcium in the urine. Research by Penniston KL, et al. (2008), "Quantitative Assessment of Citric Acid in Lemon Juice, Lime Juice, and Commercial-Available Fruit Juice Products," confirmed that lime juice is a potent source of dietary citrate.
• Boosts Immune System: A 100g (3.5oz) serving provides 30mg of Vitamin C, which is 33% of the Daily Value (DV). Vitamin C supports the production of white blood cells necessary to fight infections (Carr AC, Maggini S., 2017, "Vitamin C and Immune Function").
• Promotes Skin Quality: The antioxidants and Vitamin C in lime juice are essential for collagen synthesis, which maintains skin elasticity and strength. A study by Pullar JM, et al. (2017), "The Roles of Vitamin C in Skin Health," highlights how these nutrients protect the dermis from oxidative stress.
• Improves Iron Absorption: Consuming lime juice with plant-based foods increases the absorption of non-heme iron due to its ascorbic acid content.
• Supports Heart Health: Lime juice contains flavonoids and potassium that help manage blood pressure and reduce inflammation in the arteries.
• Provides Anti-inflammatory Properties: The limonoids found in lime juice have been shown to reduce markers of inflammation in the body.
• Aids in Weight Management: Because it is a low-calorie flavor enhancer, it can replace high-calorie dressings and marinades, helping to reduce total energy intake.
• Protects Against Food Poisoning: The high acidity of lime juice can inhibit the growth of certain bacteria, such as Vibrio cholerae, in contaminated foods.

Lime juice has been known to cause some unwanted effects like dental erosion and skin sensitivity due to its extreme acidity and the presence of furanocoumarins. A list of the downsides of lime juice are shown below.

• Dental Enamel Erosion: The pH of lime juice ranges from 2.0 to 2.4, making it highly erosive to tooth enamel. Research by Ehlen LA, et al. (2008), "Acidic beverages increase the risk of dental erosion," demonstrates that frequent exposure leads to the loss of protective minerals in teeth.
• Phytophotodermatitis: Handling limes and then exposing the skin to sunlight can cause a chemical reaction resulting in severe burns or blisters. This condition, often called "margarita burn," is caused by psoralens in the juice reacting with ultraviolet radiation (Weber IC, et al., 1999, "Phytophotodermatitis: another cause of diaper rash").
• Gastroesophageal Reflux (GERD): The high citric acid content can trigger heartburn or worsen symptoms for individuals with acid reflux or peptic ulcers.
• Migraine Trigger: In some sensitive individuals, the tyramine or citric acid in citrus juices can act as a trigger for migraine headaches.

Yes, lime juice is good for you because it delivers essential micronutrients and antioxidants while remaining very low in calories. Healthy individuals can consume 30mL to 60mL (2 to 4 tbsp) of fresh lime juice daily to support immune health and digestion. The major benefits include the provision of 30mg of Vitamin C per 100g (3.5oz) and its role in increasing urinary citrate to prevent kidney stones. It is an ideal addition to water or meals for those seeking to increase their antioxidant intake without adding significant sugar to their diet.

The calories in lime juice change based on the addition of caloric sweeteners and the concentration of the fruit solids. Raw unsweetened lime juice, whether from Persian or Key varieties, contains 25 calories per 100g (3.5oz). When manufacturers produce sweetened lime juice or lime cordials, the calorie count increases to 110 calories per 100g (3.5oz) because of the significant volume of added sugars used to balance the tartness. Lime juice powders or dehydrated crystals can contain 300 calories per 100g (3.5oz) when measured in their dry, concentrated form before they are diluted with water.

Yes, lime juice contains 4 calories per 15g (1 tbsp) serving. This energy content is derived from the 1.3g of total carbohydrates and 0.3g of natural fruit sugars found in that volume. While the caloric impact is minimal, it contributes 0.1g of dietary fiber and 4.5mg of Vitamin C to the diet in every tablespoon consumed.

The origin of lime juice is rooted in the history of small citrus fruits native to Southeast Asia, specifically the Indo-Malayan region. Historical records suggest that limes were introduced to the Mediterranean by Arab traders around 1000 AD. During the 15th and 16th centuries, Spanish and Portuguese explorers brought lime seeds to the West Indies and Florida, where the fruit thrived in the tropical climate.

By the 18th century, lime juice gained global recognition for its medicinal properties. The British Royal Navy began issuing daily rations of lime juice to sailors to prevent scurvy, a practice that led to the nickname "limey" for British sailors. In the United States, the Key lime variety became famous in the late 19th century in the Florida Keys, where it was first used to create the iconic Key lime pie. Today, lime juice is a global commodity, with its production centered in Mexico, India, and Brazil, serving as a staple in both traditional cooking and the modern beverage industry.