Although they are present in many people’s dishes, not everyone knows the benefits of tomatoes. Check it out here!
The tomato is an absolutely versatile food, which can become part of the food routine through salads, sauces, roasts, soups and many other options. But despite its popularity, you know what the benefits of tomato to health?
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According to the World Health Organization (WHO), 80 grams of tomatoes are considered one of the five daily portions of fruit and vegetables recommended for a healthy diet. This amount is roughly equivalent to one traditional tomato or seven cherry tomatoes.
But this food goes far beyond just being a good ingredient. Rich in nutrients and bioactive compounds, it offers a number of health benefits when incorporated into the diet regularly.
According to nutritionist Cris Ribas Esperançanot only enhances the flavor of the dishes, but also brings incredible benefits to our body.
Next, the professional explains the main benefits of tomatoes and provides important information so that you can make the most of this food in your diet.
benefits of tomato
According to Cris, tomatoes have a low calorie intake and are an excellent source of fiber.
“These characteristics make it an ideal option to promote a sense of satiety and reduce hunger, facilitating the weight loss process,” he points out.
See the list of benefits indicated by the professional below!
It’s good for the heart because it’s rich in potassium
Tomatoes are an excellent source of potassium, offering the equivalent of about 5% of an adult’s daily requirement in just one traditional unit.
“Potassium plays a crucial role in regulating blood pressure by helping to control sodium levels in the body. In addition, this mineral aids in proper heart function, contributing to the prevention of cardiovascular disease.”
May help lower LDL cholesterol (bad cholesterol)
Cris points out that tomatoes contain a substance called lycopene, which is responsible for their distinctive red color. Lycopene is a powerful antioxidant that can help lower levels of LDL cholesterol, known as bad cholesterol.
“Studies show that regular consumption of lycopene is associated with a decreased risk of cardiovascular disease, as well as helping to protect cells from damage caused by free radicals,” she points out.
It is a good ally to preserve eye health
Eye health is a concern for many people and tomatoes can be a great ally in this regard.
“It is a source of essential nutrients, such as vitamin C, vitamin A, vitamin E and beta-carotene, which play an important role in maintaining eye health,” explains the nutritionist.
These nutrients help protect the eyes from free radical damage, reducing the risk of age-related eye diseases such as macular degeneration.
Contains bioactive compounds with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects
In addition to lycopene, tomatoes contain other bioactive compounds, such as vitamin C, flavonoids and folic acid, which have powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. These compounds help protect the body from cellular damage by fighting oxidative stress and inflammation. A diet rich in antioxidant foods can contribute to the prevention of chronic diseases such as cancer, heart disease and neurodegenerative diseases.
“Consuming completely green tomatoes is not recommended, as the greener they are, the higher the concentration of the toxin solanine. This substance can cause symptoms such as diarrhea, decreased heart rate, mental confusion and increased respiratory rate,” concludes the professional.
Source: Terra
Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.
