However, few people know that this seemingly just habit of increasing flavor brings many health benefits.
Vitamin C in lemon helps increase iron absorption from beef
Beef is a source of heme iron, the most easily absorbed form of iron for the body.
Vitamin C in lemon water has the ability to increase the absorption of non-heme iron from plant foods (such as pho noodles, herbs eaten with it) and increase the ability to retain iron in the body.
When squeezing lemon into pho, ascorbic acid (vitamin C) will help the iron in beef and vegetables to be converted to a more easily absorbed form, supporting the prevention of iron deficiency anemia, especially important for women, the elderly and people with unbalanced diets.
Citric acid in lemon stimulates digestion, reduces bloating after eating
Pho broth often has a certain fat content from stewed bones and beef. This is the reason why many people feel bloated or indignant after eating.
Research by the American Academy of Nutrition and Gastroenterology (AGA) in 2024 shows that citric acid in lemons can stimulate the saliva and flavor secretion, supporting the digestion of protein and fat in food.
Increase resistance thanks to natural vitamin C
An average slice of fresh lemon contains about 18-25 mg of vitamin C, according to USDA (US Department of Agriculture). Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant, helping to enhance white blood cell activity and increase the body's natural immunity.
Support blood sugar control after meals
Another little-known benefit is that citric acid has the ability to slow down the digestion of starch, thereby reducing the peak blood sugar after eating.
In a bowl of beef noodle soup, the ingredients of the noodle soup provide a large amount of starch. Squeezing lemon helps create a mild acidic environment in the stomach, slowing down the conversion of starch into sugar, helping blood sugar increase more slowly, which is beneficial for people with diabetes, dieters or people who want to stay weighty.
Support for mild detoxification and taste buds balance
Lemon contains natural compounds that are slightly alkaline after being metabolized in the body, helping to balance pH.
A diet rich in vegetables and fruits is slightly alkaline, helping to support liver and kidney function and reduce free radical accumulation.
In addition, squeezing lemon also helps reduce the amount of fish sauce or salty spices needed to add to pho. This is beneficial for people who need to limit salt, reduce the risk of high blood pressure and cardiovascular disease.
