 |
| HEALTH BENEFITS OF TOMATO |
As said by the British journalist Miles Kington “Knowing tomato is a fruit is Knowledge and not adding it in a fruit salad is what we call as Wisdom.” We consider Tomato as a vegetable even though it's a fruit. If there is one fruit with different shades of Red, then it should absolutely be TOMATOES. The red colour in fruits and vegetables mostly comes from the antioxidant Lycopene, which has many health benefits.
Tomatoes are prominent in the Mediterranean diet and are closely associated with Italian cuisine. However, tomatoes are actually native to the southern hemisphere, specifically South America. Countries such as Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, Chile and Bolivia are thought to be where the tomato originated. Although we often see tomatoes the size of apple today, historically cherry tomatoes were the first cultivated varieties. Tomatoes provide many health benefits, whether you cook them or not.
The health benefits of Tomatoes can be attributed to the rich source of Nutrients and Vitamins found in Tomatoes. Tomatoes contain an impressive amount of Vitamin A, Vitamin C, and Vitamin K, as well as significant amounts of Vitamin B6, Folate, and Thiamine. Tomatoes are also a good source of Potassium, Manganese, Magnesium, Phosphorus and Copper. Tomatoes have dietary Fibre and Protein. Tomatoes contain key Carotenoids such as Lycopene and Lutein that contribute to health benefits.
HEALTH BENEFITS OF TOMATO
Prevents Cancer :
Tomatoes are an excellent source of vitamin C and other antioxidants. With these components, tomatoes can help combat the formation of free radicals which are known to cause cancer.
Blood Pressure :
Maintaining a low sodium intake & increasing Pottasium intake helps to maintain healthy blood pressure.
Healthy Heart :
The Fiber, Potassium, Vitamin C, and Choline content in tomatoes support heart health and thus helps in reducing Heart diseases.
Lowers Cholesterol :
Regular consumption of Tomatoes or Tomato Juice decreases the levels of LDL cholesterol and triglycerides in the blood.
Lowers Hypertension :
The impressive amount of Potassium in Tomatoes reduces the tension in blood vessels and arteries, helps in increasing blood circulation and lowering the stress on the heart by eliminating hypertension.
Diabetics :
Tomatoes help to decrease lipid peroxidation, so it has found to be a protective food for people with type 2 diabetes.
Constipation:
Eating foods that are high in water content and fibre, such as tomatoes help in hydrating the body and supports normal bowel movements. Tomatoes are described as a laxative fruit.
Prevent Gall Bladder Stones :
Tomato is a good source of vitamin C and may also help in providing relief from gall bladder stones.
Eye Health:
Tomatoes are a rich source of Lycopene, Lutein, and Beta-carotene. These are powerful antioxidants that protect the eyes and improves your vision.
Skin:
Tomatoes are a rich source of Vitamin C which helps in the production of Collagen in the body. Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant too. This helps maintain healthy skin.
Pregnancy:
Tomatoes are rich in Folates. Adequate Folate intake is essential before and during pregnancy.
Counter the effect of Smoking :
The Coumaric Acid and Chlorogenic Acid, in tomatoes, fight against Nitrosamines, which are the main Carcinogens found in Cigarettes. The presence of Vitamin A in high quantities has shown to reduce the effects of Carcinogens.
RECIPES WITH TOMATOES
There are different varieties of Tomatoes and it comes in various sizes. Tomatoes can easily be converted into various dishes and it can be prepared in different ways. It easily fits into the dishes imparting the taste the flavour. Raw Tomatoes, Stewed Tomatoes, Tomato Soup, Tomato Juice, Stuffed Tomatoes, In Salads, Omelettes, Ketchup/Sauces and Purees/Pastes. Lets Indianize Tomatoes by converting it into Chutneys, Curries, Dips, Raithas, Soups, Rasam, Pickles etc., Convert a simple Rice into flavoured Tomato Rice/Tomato Pulao or add tomatoes to flavour Biriyanis. For yet another delicacy try making Tomato Dosa(Indian Pancakes).
For more RECIPES WITH TOMATOES, Click here...
Here are some easy ways to increase the nutritional value by incorporating more Tomatoes in your daily diet using the following tips: - Make fresh Tomato Juice or convert it into wonderful Cocktails/Mocktails.
- Dip grape or cherry tomatoes in hummus or plain yoghurt dip and consume them as a side or a snack.
- Add diced, canned tomatoes to homemade or jarred marinara sauces when making pasta.
- Used canned, diced, or stewed tomatoes in soups.
- Eat a piece of toast with Tomato Slices and Salad Leaves.
- Make a quick Salsa with diced tomatoes, onion, jalapeno, cilantro, and freshly squeezed lime.
- Dice fresh tomatoes and add them to rice and beans, quesadillas, or tacos.
- Add them to Omelets or scrambles for breakfast.
- Add a few slices of fresh Tomatoes in your Sandwich/Wrap.
- Top Pizzas/Baguette slices with freshly sliced tomatoes and sliced mozzarella with balsamic vinegar, and top with chopped basil.
- Make a bruschetta as an appetizer.
- Lets Indianize the use of Tomatoes by making Chutneys, Curries, Dips, Raithas, Soups, Rasam, Pickles etc.,
- Convert a simple Rice into flavoured Tomato Rice/Tomato Pulao or add tomatoes to flavour Biriyanis.
- For yet another delicacy try making Tomato Dosa(Indian Pancakes).
_______________________________________________________________________________
DISCLAIMER:
Please remember these treatments options are only meant as guidelines and in no way replaces the advice or treatment provided by your medical practitioner. It is always good to seek the advice of your physician, homeopath, naturopath, or herbalist for professional advice in any matter related to your health. This article is for information purposes only.
