Lorde

Limey

250px A refreshing glass of limey
Type	Beverage
Country of origin	United Kingdom
Ingredients	Lime juice, sugar, water

Limey is a term that originally referred to British sailors and later became a colloquial term for British people. The term derives from the practice of adding lime juice to the daily ration of rum given to sailors in the British Royal Navy to prevent scurvy, a disease caused by vitamin C deficiency.

History

The use of lime juice in the British Navy began in the late 18th century. James Lind, a Scottish physician, conducted experiments in 1747 that demonstrated the effectiveness of citrus fruits in preventing scurvy. By 1795, the British Navy had adopted the practice of issuing lime juice to sailors, which significantly reduced the incidence of scurvy among the crew.

The term "limey" was first used in the 19th century, initially as a pejorative term by American sailors to describe their British counterparts. Over time, it became a more general term for British people.

Preparation

Limey, as a beverage, is a simple concoction made by mixing fresh lime juice with water and sugar to taste. It is similar to lemonade, but uses limes instead of lemons. The drink is known for its refreshing taste and is often served chilled.

Ingredients

• Fresh lime juice
• Water
• Sugar (to taste)

Method

1. Squeeze the juice from fresh limes into a pitcher. 2. Add water to dilute the lime juice to the desired strength. 3. Stir in sugar until it dissolves completely. 4. Serve chilled, over ice if desired.

Nutritional Information

Lime juice is an excellent source of vitamin C, which is essential for the synthesis of collagen, the absorption of iron, and the maintenance of the immune system. It also contains small amounts of other vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin B6, potassium, and folate.

Cultural Significance

The term "limey" has been used in various cultural contexts, often in literature and film, to denote British characters or themes. It reflects the historical connection between the British Navy and the prevention of scurvy, highlighting the importance of nutrition in maritime history.

Also see

• Scurvy
• Vitamin C
• British Royal Navy
• James Lind
• Lemonade