Tomatoes are an extremely versatile fruit, serving multiple purposes from raw, cooked and juice consumption. Tomatoes have numerous health benefits. Naturally sweet fruits that are high in Vitamin C and antioxidants make tomatoes ideal for snacking as well as vitamin A & K supplementation! Tomatoes have numerous varieties, each one boasting different health benefits including reduced heart disease risk, lower bad cholesterol levels, cancer prevention, blood pressure regulation and blood pressure regulation! Let’s take a closer look at four benefits of tomatoes…
Health Benefits Of Tomatoes
1) Rich In Antioxidants
Tomatoes are rich in antioxidants, substances which protect against damage caused by free radicals, uncharged atoms or molecules which damage cells and lead to diseases like cancer and heart disease. With age comes more free radical production; antioxidants help neutralize them; studies show those eating diets rich in tomatoes have higher blood antioxidant levels – with particular benefit for breast and prostate cancer risk reduction, heart disease risk reduction, stroke reduction. Lycopene in tomatoes has proven particularly valuable; research shows it reduces both cancer risks as well as heart disease risk as well as stroke risks.
2) Helps Manage Cholesterol
Lycopene found in tomatoes can also help to lower cholesterol levels. Studies show that when people eat more tomatoes, their levels of bad cholesterol (LDL) decrease and good cholesterol (HDL) increases; though more tomatoes may need to be consumed than would typically be eaten at one sitting in order for benefits to take effect.
3) May Prevent Cancer
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Tomatoes contain antioxidants and vitamins that may help protect against certain cancers. Lycopene, one of many carotenoids present in tomatoes, has been proven to lower risk for prostate and cervical cancers; furthermore, tomatoes have also been studied as potential treatments for lung cancer. Lycopene may also help protect against colorectal, gastric, and pancreatic cancers.
4) May Benefit Weight Loss And Diabetes
A 2012 study examined the effects of tomato juice on insulin sensitivity, blood glucose, and blood lipids among overweight individuals. Researchers discovered that those who consumed tomato juice experienced lower blood glucose and insulin levels after two weeks; in addition, their blood lipid levels were higher compared with non-consumers; therefore tomato juice may make for an effective part of a healthy diet for individuals who are both overweight and have diabetes.
Additional Benefits
May Prevent Kidney Stones – According to research, individuals who regularly consume tomatoes may have lower risks of kidney stones due to the citrate content present in them which has been proven effective against kidney stone formation.
Tomatoes may help protect against eye diseases – Lycopene found in tomatoes may help to combat macular degeneration, one of the leading causes of blindness among older adults.
May help to prevent rheumatoid arthritis – Eating plenty of tomatoes may reduce the risk of rheumatoid arthritis, an inflammatory disease causing joint pain and swelling.
Tomatoes may aid in maintaining healthy bones – Their high concentration of vitamin K could provide protection from osteoporosis and other bone ailments.
How To Enjoy The Health Benefits Of Tomatoes
There are many ways to enjoy the benefits of tomatoes. They can be eaten fresh, dried, or in sauces, soups, juices, and even baked goods such as cakes and muffins. One simple way to enjoy the benefits of tomatoes is to add diced tomatoes to your meal. You can also make a tomato salad, sandwich, or tomato soup.
Also Refer :- 7 Advantages Of Consuming Honey
Final Words
Tomatoes are one of nature’s healthiest foods and are a great addition to a healthy diet. The top 5 health benefits of tomatoes include being rich in antioxidants, helping to manage cholesterol, preventing cancer, benefiting weight loss and diabetes, and protecting against eye diseases. There are many ways to enjoy the health benefits of tomatoes. Whether you eat them fresh, dried, or in sauces, soups, juices, or even baked goods such as cakes and muffins, there is no wrong way to enjoy these delicious fruits!
