Tomato slices in sandwiches or tomato soups; be it in any form, having tomatoes is always a great choice. Tomatoes are not only tasty and tangy but also very healthy to be consumed daily. Tomatoes are a type of citrus fruit and they can be eaten raw in different preparations or can be cooked to relish a sweet tangy taste.
While tomatoes are easily available, they have many health benefits that make them an important food in your daily diet. Some of the health benefits are:
- Source of antioxidants
Tomatoes are great antioxidants as they contain large amounts of lycopene; which helps in fighting cancer cells. Tomatoes can be taken in any form and get the regular dose of antioxidants that can fight most of the types of cancers.
- Source of vitamins and minerals
Tomatoes are rich in vitamin C, which in itself is a natural antioxidant. Additionally, tomatoes contain vitamin A, vitamin K, and minerals like potassium and iron. These minerals are particularly important in maintaining nerve health and blood health. The vitamins in tomatoes protect the body cells from DNA damage.
- Reduces risk of heart disease
Consuming tomatoes regularly can help to reduce lipids or bad cholesterol levels in blood. The lycopene helps in protecting heart from these lipids and thus reduce the risk of heart disease. Tomatoes are also known to reduce high blood pressure.
- Protection against thrombosis
Tomatoes contain vitamin K, which is responsible for blood clotting and controlling bleeding. It thus protects from thrombosis and helps to maintain good health.
- Fights inflammation
The nutritional content in tomatoes can help in reducing levels of substances or factors responsible for inflammation.
- Improves skin health
With great antioxidant properties and nutrients present in tomatoes, they help in keeping the teeth, hair and skin healthy. They help in protecting skin against erythematic eruptions and help to preserve skin health. Lycopene in tomatoes is a major constituent of skin and anti-aging products.
- Maintains digestion
Tomatoes are also rich in fiber and help to keep the gut healthy. They prevent constipation and the antioxidant helps in removal of harmful toxins formed in the body.
