Health Benefits of Tomatoes

Native to South America, tomatoes belong to the nightshade family and grow on sprawling plants (vines). It the most cultivated plant world over for its fruit; a vegetable to us. Presently there are about a thousand cultivars that suit different growing conditions. Tomato sizes can vary from a 5mm to a 6cm in diameter. They come in varied colors too, to enliven a platter; yellow, red, orange, green, and some ornamental colors of black, white pink, purple with patterns and all. Of all these, its mostly the red, yellow, green and orange ones most consumed. Unlike other fruits, tomatoes are slightly bitter and acidic in taste that gets tempered during cooking. They are not used in food preparation for their taste, flavor and color alone, but for their enormous health benefits.

Nutrition Facts

The table mentioned below is for one cup of chopped tomatoes, equivalent to 180g.

Nutrient	Nutritional Value
Calories	32.4 calories
Protein	1.6 g
Carbohydrates	7.1 g
Potassium	427 mg
Calcium	18.0 mg
Magnesium	19.8 mg
Phosphorous	43.2 mg
Fluoride	4.1 mcg
Vitamin A	1499 IU
Vitamin C	22.9 mg
Vitamin K	14.2 mcg
Folate	27.0 mcg

Benefits of Eating Tomatoes

Lycopene, the carotenoids found in tomatoes are widely believed to help in cancer prevention as it is a potent antioxidant. Lycopene help protect cells and other structures in the body from the oxidizing linked damages and free radicals known to damage the white blood cells. More than raw, it's the cooked form of tomatoes that breaks down cell walls (of tomatoes) releasing large amounts of concentrated carotenoids. A regular consumption with some fats enables lycopene to be better absorbed. Organic tomatoes and its products have more cancer fighting properties than its counterpart. Lycopene in tomatoes also helps to lower the risk of other forms of cancer, especially prostate, stomach, rectum and lung cancers.

Another health benefit is its antioxidant properties. Antioxidants play a major role in preventing heart diseases too, as it reduces the risk of developing atherosclerosis (narrowing of the arteries and veins). As tomatoes are rich in potassium, niacin, vitamin B6 and folate, they help to lower high cholesterol levels and high blood pressure, substantially reducing the risk of heart-related conditions.

A rich source of vitamin K it helps in maintaining blood clotting and prevent hemorrhages. Foliate found in tomatoes reduce the risk of a woman bearing a child with potential brain defects. Tomato juice and pulp is found in many anti-aging and sunscreen products, hence, a regular consumption of tomatoes will protect the skin against the harmful UV rays, reduce pre-mature wrinkles, heal and soothe sunburns and improve the overall skin texture and tone. As a natural blood purifier, tomatoes help detox the system of all impurities and keeps the digestive system healthy by preventing the occurrence of diarrhea and constipation. Studies indicate that tomato intake also helps in reducing the risk of developing urinary tract infections, bladder cancer and dissolve gallstones. Consuming tomatoes without the seeds, lowers the risk of forming kidney stones and gallstones.

Tomatoes are versatile fruits or vegetable (as you please), one can eat them raw, cooked, as dried powder found in ready-made soup packets and even as fresh juice. Available throughout the year, and inexpensive too, fresh or canned, enjoy them everyday to get the maximum health benefits.