Benefits of Tomatoes

With the abundance of tomatoes at this time of year, why not take advantage of their taste and health benefits? Tomatoes add flavor to any dish they are added to and they bring a whole host of great benefits as well.
We all know that tomatoes are extremely low in calories and contain no fat, but did you know that a serving of tomatoes has 2 grams of fiber, which is 7% of the daily recommended amount. Tomatoes contain a lot of water, therefore they are a filling food with their water content. The tomato contains many vitamins that are healthy for your body. One cup of tomatoes (a serving) is a great way to get Vitamins A, C, K, folate and potassium. The tomato is naturally low in sodium, saturated fat, cholesterol, and calories. Tomatoes also provide thiamin, niacin, vitamin B6, magnesium, phosphorus and copper which is all needed for good health.

Are you looking for ways to keep your skin looking younger and with less wrinkles? Then make sure you add more tomatoes to your diet. Tomatoes contain lycopene which researchers have found to make skin less sensitive to ultra violet rays. Therefore, your skin will be less damaged and get less fine line wrinkles. Plus, tomatoes have Beta-carotene which has been found to protect skin against damage from the sun.

Much research is being done about lycopene and how it can reduce your chances of developing prostate, colorectal and stomach cancer. Tomatoes contain high levels of lycopene which means they can be an effective tool in reducing your risk of cancer. Science has discovered that cooked tomatoes produce even more lycopene.

If your doctor has suggested that you need to be heart smart, then look no further than a delicious tomato. Tomatoes contain Vitamin B and potassium which makes them effective in reducing cholesterol levels and lowering blood pressure. Eating tomatoes or drinking tomato juice can help prevent various heart ailments.

Researchers have been studying the correlation between the eating of tomatoes and healthier eyes and stronger bones. Research has shown that the large amount of calcium and Vitamin K found in play an essential part in strengthening and performing minor repairs on the bones as well as the bone tissue.tomatoes Doctors have also seen a link between the Vitamin A in tomatoes and vision. Vitamin A is important for good vision and tomatoes are a great source for this vitamin.

Tomatoes contain the coumaric acid and chlorogenic acid that is found in tomatoes work to protect the body from carcinogens that are produced from cigarette smoke. Researchers believe that tomatoes can reduce the amount of damage from second hand smoke.

The tomato may be an aid in losing weight as well. Researchers have discovered that tomatoes have the ability to stimulate the production of the amino acid carnitine which has been shown in research to speed the body’s fat-burning capacity by over 30 percent. Not only will tomatoes help your diet, they have the ability to improve the functioning of the digestive system and the liver. Research has shown that tomatoes can ease constipation problems as well.

So go ahead and add tomatoes to your diet. They are tasty, healthy and they truly do your body good! Plus, right now, they are readily available and there is nothing better than biting into a fresh organic tomato! Enjoy!

Try these delicious and healthy Tomato recipes

	Dr. Nandi’s Pickled Tomatoes Go get the recipe.
	Dr. Nandi’s Gazpacho with Grilled Tomatoes Go get the recipe.