Tomato has a scientific name Solanum Lycopersicum. It is known as a functional food, which means it is more than just a source of nutrients as it serves vital functions to the body. There are different health benefits of tomato, such as protection against cancer, heart disease, diabetes, and other deadly diseases. It is originated from the central and southern parts of America. Today, it is being grown in diverse countries in the world with temperate climates.
The vital substance that made tomato a superfood is its lycopene, known as a powerful antioxidant. There are numerous tomatoes to choose from, such as plum tomato, which is the most common, grape tomatoes, cherry tomatoes, tomberries, and beefsteak tomatoes. Tomato benefits are limitless when it comes to cooking and good health.
1. Cancer Prevention Properties
Several types of research are conducted, one of the most promising comes from the American Institute for Cancer Research, and they found out that lycopene is the component that makes it an anti-cancer fruit. Tomato good for you as a common ingredient to your favorite meal because of its lycopene content, an antioxidant. Cancer cells are produced because of free radicals in the body due to stress and other unknown factors. If you prefer tomato juice benefits, you can enjoy it as cold, but you can also use it as a tomato paste and sauce. Studies proved that processing tomatoes increase its cancer-fighting components because it makes these natural compounds readily absorbed by the body.
2. Help to Regulate Blood Pressure
Tomato is a good source of potassium that is regarded as vital in lowering blood pressure. Sodium is the main reason people suffer from high blood pressure, and eating foods high in potassium can block sodium in the body. More potassium means that more sodium is being released through your urine, one of the essential health benefits of tomato. However, too much of it can also lead to kidney stones’ build-up, so it is safe to say that anything in excess is also not good.
3. Tomatoes for Weight Loss
Losing weight is a popular topic nowadays because many people are turning into a healthy diet to lose weight and live a healthy lifestyle. One of tomato juice benefits is reduced weight, and this is according to a study in China. Tomatoes are very rich in fiber to help in proper digestion and are low in calories.
4. Tomato for Healthy Skin and Hair
If you are conscious of your looks, you need to take good care of your skin and your crowning glory. Tomato good for you in your beauty regimen as many beauty products are using it. The antioxidant content can aid in treating acne, large pores, sunburn, and dull skin. Today, some toners and astringents make use of tomato juice benefits.
Aside from using it externally, eating tomatoes can safeguard the skin from the harmful ultraviolet rays from the sun.
5. Tomatoes for Pregnant Women
Vitamin C is an essential nutrient not only for pregnant but for all, but much is needed during pregnancy. One of the health benefits of tomato is its Vitamin C content that can help in the easy absorption of iron, which is another crucial nutrient for pregnant women. Being healthy by consumption of tomato is not only for mothers but also for their baby’s health.
6. Tomatoes for Smokers
Although smoking is hazardous to health not only for the smoker but also because of second-hand smoking, it is good to know that eating tomatoes can help combat free radicals.
According to the recent study conducted by the National Institutes of Health, smokers should consume 35 mg more of Vitamin C to maintain good health. Tomato benefits can help smokers to prevent diseases link to it.
7. Tomatoes for Improve Vision
One of the essential nutrients found in tomato is Vitamin A that is vital for clear vision. The retina located in the eyes needs an ample amount of Vitamin A, and a low level of it can later cause blindness. Aside from Vitamin A, lutein in tomato is good for you, a phytochemical that can promote healthy vision.
