Why are superfoods like tomatoes?
Despite being a fruit by nature, tomatoes are typically cooked as vegetables and include a large amount of vitamins, minerals, and plant components that are excellent for you. They are nutrient-rich and high in lycopene. Together with providing vitamin C, potassium, and folate, tomatoes are also a significant dietary source of the antioxidant lycopene. Additionally, they contain the phytochemical lutein, which guards against age-related macular degeneration and preserves vision.
Plenty of lycopene
Packed with Vitamin C
Lycopene, an antioxidant related to a lower risk of cancer and heart disease, is abundant in tomatoes and can be found in large amounts in food. Tomatoes are known for their vibrant red color because lycopene, which is found in tomato-based foods including watermelon, tomato sauce, ketchup, and salad dressings, is readily absorbed by the body.
Additionally, tomatoes contain a lot of vitamin A, which strengthens the immune system, protects eyesight, and fosters good skin. Vitamin C, on the other hand, helps lower stress and preserve the health of teeth and gums. They are also a great source of folate and potassium.
In addition to being great fresh on salads, sandwiches, and pizzas, tomatoes can also be baked, boiled, roasted, stewed, and cooked into sauces. This adaptable superfood can be eaten in any form you want and offers roughly the same amount of nutrients, whether it is fresh, canned, or dried. Just keep in mind that processing heat can destroy some of the vitamins and minerals in tomatoes, so for maximum advantage, select whole tomatoes that are free of bruising or cuts.
Full of potassium
In addition to being low in calories, tomatoes are a good source of vitamin C, lycopene, potassium, and folate. Additionally, they contain phytochemicals that promote an active lifestyle and aid in the prevention of chronic diseases.
Since lycopene is fat-soluble, eating it with oil or fat improves its absorption (think tomato sauce or salsa). One medium-sized red tomato can contain up to 290 mg of potassium, which is more than several other superfoods, including spinach, avocado, and bananas.
High-lycopene diets may reduce the risk of heart attacks, strokes, and other cardiovascular problems, although more research is required in this area. Tomatoes include lycopene and other carotenoids that may help prevent emphysema and asthma. Tomatoes can also fight free radicals and lessen inflammation in the body because they are a great source of antioxidants. (23),
Full of fiber
Tomatoes include fiber and phytochemicals, such as the antioxidant lycopene, which support a healthy weight, help sate properly, and regulate blood sugar levels. Moreover, they have folate, which aids in the regulation of homocysteine, an amino acid that raises the risk of heart disease.
Tomatoes include anti-inflammatory and fat-burning chemicals that help improve the health of your skin. They can help prevent wrinkles, minimize the appearance of dark spots and redness, and shrink pores.
Vitamin C, which is found in abundance in tomatoes, strengthens the immune system and guards against infections, colds, and even sunburn. They also have a low salt content and a high potassium content, which supports healthy cardiac function and fluid balance. (Reduced incidences of hypertension are linked to higher intakes of potassium.) Lutein, an antioxidant that helps prevent age-related eye diseases, including macular degeneration, is also abundant in tomatoes. Additionally, they contain naringenin, a special carotenoid that has been proven to be beneficial for inflammatory illnesses.
