Lemon vs Apple vs Bananas: New Study Reveals Surprising Winner

Last Updated:July 29, 2025, 18:05 IST

A study by William Paterson University found lemon to be the healthiest fruit, surpassing apples and bananas, due to its high vitamin C, soluble fiber, and flavonoids

For decades, apples have been hailed as the go-to fruit for good health. Bananas, too, enjoy a reputation for supporting weight loss and offering a quick energy boost. But a new scientific study is now challenging this conventional wisdom – with a surprising winner.

According to researchers at William Paterson University in the US, lemon stands out as the most beneficial fruit for human health after analysing 41 different fruits. The team evaluated each one based on nutrient density, vitamin and antioxidant content, and overall health benefits. Lemon emerged as the clear leader.

The study, cited in an Economic Times report, credited lemon with an impressive combination of high vitamin C levels, soluble fiber, flavonoids, and plant-based compounds. These nutrients are known to strengthen the immune system, aid digestion, and reduce the risk of heart disease.

One of lemon’s key advantages lies in how it behaves inside the body. While naturally acidic to the taste, lemon has an alkalising effect once metabolised, helping to balance the body’s pH levels and improve gut health. This makes it more than just a garnish or flavoring agent.

The peel of the lemon, often discarded, also deserves attention. It contains limonene, a citrus oil known for its antimicrobial and potential anti-cancer properties. Limonene is found in particularly high concentrations in the thick outer layer of the fruit. Health experts recommend grating lemon zest into food, not only to enhance flavour, but to tap into its medicinal potential.

Lemon’s flavonoids are shown to lower blood pressure and bad cholesterol. Its soluble fiber helps stabilise blood sugar levels and encourages the growth of healthy gut bacteria. Drinking lemon water, especially when paired with honey, can help speed up digestion and support overall wellness.

In comparison, apples and bananas remain nutritious – packed with fiber, potassium, and natural sugars. But lemon, thanks to its broader spectrum of health-supporting compounds, appears to edge them out.

That said, health experts also urge some caution. Consuming raw lemon on an empty stomach may irritate sensitive digestive systems and damage tooth enamel. It’s best to dilute lemon juice in warm water, and people with known gastrointestinal issues should consult a doctor before making lemons a daily habit.

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