Known scientifically as Solanum Lycopersicum, the tomato is the berry of a plant from the nightshade family, native to South America. Despite technically being a fruit, the tomato is generally categorized as a vegetable. The tomato is consumed in diverse ways, including raw, as an ingredient in many dishes, sauces, salads, and drinks. They are usually red when mature, but can come in a variety of colors, including yellow, orange, green and purple. Here on these page we will see common health benefits of tomatoes.
Facts about Tomatoes:
- They are usually red when mature, but can come in a variety of colors, including yellow, orange, green and purple.
- There are many subspecies of it, with different shapes and flavor.
- Lycopene is the antioxidant that gives them their rich red color. They account for 80 percent of lycopene consumption.
- The water content in them is around 95%. The other 5% consist mainly carbohydrates and fiber.
Health Benefits of Tomatoes
Reduces Risk of Heart Disease
They are the major dietary source of the antioxidant lycopene, which has been linked to healthiness, including reduced risk of heart disease and cancer.
Great Source of Vitamins and Nutrients
They are also a great source of vitamin C, potassium, folate and vitamin K. They are the rich source of vitamins A and C and folic acid. They contain a wide array of beneficial nutrients and antioxidants, including alpha lipoic acid, lycopene, choline, folic acid, beta-carotene, and lutein.
Good for Skin
They are good for your skin as they have a high amount of lycopene, a substance found in many of the more expensive over-the-counter facial cleansers, they are great for skin care.
Prevents Cancer
They help to prevent several types of cancer. The antioxidants present in them are scientifically found to be protective against cancers. Being rich in natural fiber they maintain the vitality of the colon as it reduces the risk of prostate cancer.
Improves Vision
Because of all that vitamin A, it is also an excellent food to help improve your vision and eyes.
Maintain Blood Sugar Balance
Are naturally low in sodium, saturated fat, cholesterol, and calories. They can keep your blood sugar in balance, as they are very good source of chromium, which helps to regulate blood sugar.
Good for Hair
Vitamin A content is very high in a tomato, so it’s good for keeping your hair strong and shiny, and its also good for your eyes, teeth, skin, and bones.
Keeps the Digestive System on Tract
They keep the digestive system healthy by preventing both constipation and diarrhea.
Used in Various Cooking Dishes
Tomatoes can enhance the flavor of almost any cooked dish.
Reduces the Damage done by Smoking
They contain chlorogenic acid and coumaric acid, which help to fight against some of the carcinogens brought about by cigarette smoke.