Tomato
Tomatoes are a fruit that comes from the nightshade family and originated in South America. Tomatoes are found in many colours, such as yellow, orange, green, purple, and red, which are typical colours. There are also many subspecies that have their own taste and shape.
Even though tomatoes are botanically fruits, they are commonly used and prepared as a vegetable. Studies showed that the nutrients like Vitamin K, Vitamin C, folate, and potassium found in tomato might lower the chances of developing heart disease, type 2 diabetes and neurodegenerative disorders. Tomatoes are rich in antioxidants like beta-carotene, lycopene, and vitamin C that help in the prevention of cell damage and reduced risk of cancer.
Health Benefits of Tomatoes
Enhances Heart Health
A medium-sized tomato contains similar potassium levels to that of a banana. Potassium and sodium are important for heart health as these electrolytes need to perform optimally. Blood vessel relaxation is aided by potassium. People with hypertension can benefit from the potassium, lycopene and fibre found in tomatoes.
Aids Immunity
Tomato juice is rich in antioxidants as they contain vitamin C and beta-carotene. They help in boosting the immune system and studies have also shown that tomato juice promote the presence of immune cells that helping fighting the germs.
Lowers Risk of Cancer
Tomatoes may reduce the risk of cancer as they possess antioxidants like beta-carotene and lycopene that have anti-cancer properties. DNA damage leads to cancer; the antioxidants in tomatoes not only prevent this from happening but also promote the death of these cancerous cells. There are many studies that have discovered that men who consume high amounts of tomatoes have a low chance of developing prostate cancer. Studies have also shown a correlation between consumption of non-starchy vegetables like tomatoes and reduced risk of colorectal, stomach, lung, aerodigestive tract cancers and even estrogen-receptor-negative breast tumours.
May Aid in Reducing Type 2 Diabetes
Many people in the world are affected by diabetes, and even more are at the prediabetic stage with elevated blood sugar. Studies show that lycopene and fibre present in tomatoes might prevent type 2 diabetes by decreasing inflammation and shielding the cells from the same.
Healthy Skin and Hair
Tomatoes are not only rich in vitamin C and Vitamin A, they are also rich in chlorogenic acid. They help promote the radiance of the skin, nails, and hair, especially when they are taken in raw form. Even though face masks with raw tomatoes might be beneficial for the skin, they are not as beneficial as consuming tomatoes.
Improves Metabolic syndrome
Recently studies have discovered that sufficient amount of lycopene in the bloodstream might reduce the chances of developing metabolic syndrome. Metabolic syndrome is a group of health conditions that increase the risk of diabetes, heart diseases, stroke and other related issues. Lycopene reduces the LDL, the bad cholesterol and increases the HDL. It also improves fasting insulin levels.
May Prevent Constipation
Tomatoes help maintain a good digestive system as they contain both soluble and insoluble fibre. While soluble fibres absorb water to form consistency during digestion, insoluble fibre adds bulk to the stool, making it easier to pass. Tomatoes support the formation of a healthy stool as the hemicelluloses, cellulose, and pectin fibres found in them are resistant to digestion in the large intestine.
Contributes to Brain Health
Tomatoes are an excellent provider of two highly beneficial carotenoids, lycopene and beta-carotene. Both lycopene and beta-carotene, being carotenoids, possess strong antioxidant properties. These antioxidants effectively neutralize free radicals, thereby preventing inflammation, a primary cause of various health issues. Given the high concentration of omega-3 fats in the brain, it becomes especially susceptible to free radical damage. Hence, there is a widespread recommendation for increased vegetable consumption as a means to safeguard overall health.
Improves Lung Function
Several research studies indicate that tomatoes could potentially provide benefits for individuals with asthma and aid in the prevention of emphysema. This particular condition gradually impairs the air sacs within the lungs. The reason behind this potential benefit lies in the presence of antioxidants such as lycopene, lutein, and zeaxanthin in tomatoes. These antioxidants actively combat the detrimental substances found in tobacco smoke, which is the primary factor contributing to the development of emphysema. Scientists are currently engaged in further exploration of these effects.
Conclusion
The lycopene in tomatoes aids in protecting them from the harmful UV rays of the sun. It is also responsible for the vibrant colour. Similarly, they may also help in safeguarding the cells from potential damage. Tomatoes are also rich in vitamins B and E, potassium and other essential nutrients.
