Tomatoes are nutritious, low in calories, and come in various colors and sizes. They contain vitamins C, K, and A, as well as lycopene, an antioxidant that helps reduce the risk of cancer. Tomatoes can be eaten raw or cooked in many recipes and are a great snack option.
Tomatoes are acidic fruits that contain vitamins and minerals that a healthy body needs. The nutritional value of a tomato is considerable and it is low in calories. Lycopene, an important nutrient and antioxidant, is also found in tomatoes. There are many varieties in different colors and sizes. They can be eaten raw or in soups, pastas, juices, salads, and many other recipes.
These fruits are part of the nightshade family, which includes eggplants and peppers. They come in different colors, including yellow, brown, purple, and red, and sizes range from a giant fillet tomato to a small cherry or grape variety. Growers and home gardeners grow them from seed or from affordable plants found in garden centers. Apartment dwellers without a patio can successfully grow them in a pot.
This healthy fruit is rich in vitamins C, K and A. Vitamin C is water soluble and must be replaced in the body every day. Tomatoes pair well with olive oil, which not only helps integrate fat-soluble vitamins A and K, but is one of the healthiest fats. They are a good source of folic acid, the natural form of vitamin B9, an essential element for the development of the spinal cord and brain. With dietary fiber and important minerals like potassium and iron, tomatoes help the body function properly.
The nutritional value of a tomato is not exhausted by cooking it. Lycopene, a carotenoid that gives tomatoes their red color, becomes concentrated and increases when heated. Ketchup, pizza sauce, ketchup, and tomato juice have high concentrations. Lycopene is an antioxidant that helps destroy free radicals, the compounds produced when cells burn oxygen. It has been shown to reduce the incidence of skin cancer, osteoporosis, and prostate cancer.
Like other fruits and vegetables, tomatoes are high in water content. They can be eaten in quantity without adding too many calories. Fresh fruits are a much better snack than a candy bar or pastry. Eating salsa with a tortilla or chips has all the nutritional value of a tomato and is lower in calories than full-fat cheese or French onion dip.
Tomatoes can be eaten raw and sliced, in sandwiches and salads, or cooked or stewed in a versatile sauce. Some people like to scoop out the insides and fill the tomato with egg or tuna salad for a quick lunch. If they are too acidic, a little sugar can be added to tomato sauce or even sliced raw tomatoes. Soup is another favorite, and the nutritional value of a tomato makes it a sensible and delicious addition to any meal.
Protect your devices with Threat Protection by NordVPN