Tomatoes: nutritional value, benefits and harm to the body

Many people love fresh and juicy tomatoes.This article will tell you about the nutritional value of these vegetables, as well as the benefits and harms tomatoes can cause the body.

To use tomatoes in food for the first time became people who lived in South America. They loved tomatoes so much that they gradually began not only to collect them, but also to grow them. Until now, wild tomato species have been preserved in South America.

Europeans did not immediately taste the tomatoes. Initially, they considered these red bright fruits to be poisonous. It was believed that eating overseas products could even lead to death. Gradually, however, all fears disappeared, and vegetables were used to prepare various dishes. Tomatoes became especially popular only in the 17th century.

Today, largely due to the development of breeders, there is a huge variety of varieties of these vegetables.

So, in the form they can be:

• round;
• elongated;
• heart-shaped;
• flattened.

Different varieties of tomatoes also differ in size. Small round tomatoes are called "cherry". They are more often used in fresh cooking for cooking various salads. Currently, there are varieties of tomatoes, which, when fruited, form tomatoes weighing up to a kilogram or more. Such vegetables were grown with the participation of breeders.

The calorie content of these vegetables is relatively small. 100 g of the product contains 20 kilocalories. Such a low calorie content is due to the fact that they are often eaten by people who want to improve their figure. Some women say that with the help of a tomato diet they managed to get rid of a couple of extra pounds.

Sun-ripened tomatoes have a rather sweet taste. This feature is largely due to the fructose and glucose contained in tomatoes. Their content in 100 grams of these vegetables is 3.8 g.

The content of natural sugar in tomatoes of different varieties may vary. It is noted that sweeter fruits contain more natural sugars. This should be remembered by people who stick to a diet or strictly monitor their weight.

Aromatic vegetables contain many components that favorably affect the work of the whole organism.

So, they are present in:

• vitamin C;
• B vitamins, as well as A and K;
• potassium;
• magnesium;
• iron;
• chlorine;
• sulfur;
• calcium;
• phosphorus.

Juicy tomatoes also contain folic acid. This substance is necessary in order to form new cells in the body. Filling the physiological need for folic acid is a good preventive measure against the development of many dangerous diseases. The human body constantly needs this component, especially in the period of active growth. Women need folic acid during pregnancy and lactation.

Tomatoes are considered a source of dietary fiber. These components are needed for good digestion. Doctors say that the inclusion in the diet of foods rich in dietary fiber, helps to improve the functioning of the large intestine. Dietary fiber helps normalize peristalsis, which leads to the fact that the chair becomes regular. The inclusion of tomatoes in the menu will gradually help to cope with a very delicate problem - constipation.

Tomatoes are widely used in cooking. They can be the basis of excellent sauces, soups, as well as added to salads. Not everyone knows that tomatoes are very useful for the human body. And they can improve the health of both men and women.

In order not to harm your body, tomatoes should be eaten properly. People who have contraindications for health, limiting the consumption of tomatoes, eat them not worth it.

The bright color of the fruit is due to the presence of specific plant pigments in them - carotenoids. They give fruits and berries a yellow, orange or reddish color. Carotenoids bring enormous benefits to the human body - for example, they can improve vision.

Doctors note that with regular intake of vegetables rich in carotenoids, the probability of development of retinal pathologies significantly decreases. Also, experts note that people who regularly eat tomatoes and other vegetables rich in carotenoids, see better at dusk and dark. Ophthalmologists advise to include tomatoes in the menu as well for people with retinal diseases or age-related changes in the organs of vision.

Modern scientists have found that tomatoes contain a unique component - lycopene. By its chemical structure, it is a non-cyclic isomer of beta-carotene. This component useful for the organism was first discovered only at the beginning of the 20th century. Lycopene refers to substances that practically do not dissolve in water, while being well soluble in organic dyes or oil solutions.

The concentration of lycopene after it enters the bloodstream during digestion processes gradually increases, reaching its maximum by the end of the first day from the moment it enters the bloodstream. Scientists have found that this carotenoid is distributed unevenly across the internal organs. Thus, its greatest concentration is detected, as a rule, in the liver cells, adrenal glands and ovaries.

Scientists note that lycopene helps reduce the likelihood of developing malignant tumors and prevents the active growth of tumors. Oncologists say that people who regularly include tomatoes in their diets have a lower risk of developing tumors of the reproductive organs.

Tomatoes are very useful for men. It is no coincidence that they are the basis of the Mediterranean diet, the popularity of which is increasing every day. This style of food adheres to people living in Italy, Spain, as well as some other European countries. The Mediterranean diet necessarily means eating a lot of vegetables, and tomatoes are no exception.

Tomatoes help improve male health outcomes. They contain a number of beneficial minerals that positively affect the prostate gland. If the prostate is normal, then the risk of developing dangerous pathologies leading to a decrease in potency is significantly reduced.

Eating tomatoes helps to improve the course of hormonal processes. These vegetables are recommended for men suffering from diseases accompanied by testosterone deficiency. Regular consumption of tomatoes or tomato juice contributes to a slow increase in the concentration of this hormone in the blood.

Tomatoes should be eaten by people who smoke. Scientists have determined that smokers, especially those with a long smoking experience, often register conditions characterized by a decrease in the concentration of ascorbic acid in the body. Tomatoes also contain quite a lot of this vitamin.The inclusion of tomatoes in the usual diet helps people who can not give up the bad habit, reduce the risk of developing dangerous pathologies. Tomatoes also contain beneficial substances that help to remove dangerous toxic substances from a person’s smoking person.

Interestingly, the use of tomatoes can contribute to a change in sperm performance. Doctors recommend these vegetables to be used by the representatives of the stronger sex, who have had irregularities in the spermogram. It is noted that with frequent use of tomatoes, the important properties of sperm improve, as well as the duration of sexual intercourse.

Tomatoes contain potassium - a necessary component for the complete work of the cells. Its deficiency can lead to the fact that the course of all cellular processes is disturbed. If this deficient state lasts long enough, then it can trigger the development of pathologies.

Needs potassium and heart. Potassium deficiency can lead to the development of various cardiac abnormalities, as well as cause a life-threatening arrhythmia. Potassium contained in tomatoes, entering the body, helps to reduce the risk of various heart rhythm disorders. That is why tomatoes are recommended for people suffering from chronic pathologies of the heart and blood vessels.

Vitamins of group B which are a part of tomatoes help to increase working capacity, to improve mood and promote a good sleep. Antioxidants present in tomatoes, have a beneficial effect on the immune system, helping to strengthen the protective properties of the body.

Tomatoes also contain substances that promote the excretion of toxic substances and even radionuclides from the body. When accumulated in the body, these components can provoke the development of dangerous pathologies and even the growth of malignant cells. People living in large industrial cities have a rather high risk of these substances entering the body. Regular inclusion in the diet of tomatoes helps to cleanse the cells of the body from unnecessary toxins, salts of heavy metals and radioactive components.

It has been scientifically proven that people who regularly eat fresh tomatoes have a reduced risk of developing a stroke. The constituent components help to reduce the appearance of pathological blood clots in the blood vessels that interfere with normal blood flow.

Eating tomatoes also helps reduce blood cholesterol levels. Hypercholesterolemia (excess cholesterol in the blood) is dangerous because it can lead to the development of serious heart disease, including it is one of the causes of heart attacks. Tomatoes also contain a whole range of useful components that help to reduce the concentration of "bad" lipids and cholesterol in the blood.

Eating dishes prepared with the addition of tomatoes has a beneficial effect on the functioning of the liver cells. It is noted that tomatoes can positively affect not only the functioning of the liver, but also improve the functioning of the gallbladder. It is believed that the use of these vegetables reduces the risk of the formation of various liver diseases.

Doctors do not advise abusing tomatoes to people suffering from urolithiasis. Tomatoes contain many natural acids that can change the pH of urine. Such specific changes can lead to the formation of stones in the kidneys. The abundance of organic acids in tomatoes in certain cases of their use can lead to a violation of the acidic properties of urine, which can cause the development of various pathologies.

The use of tomatoes, especially in large quantities, can provoke an exacerbation of gout. Use caution when eating tomatoes should be people suffering from peptic ulcer disease and recurrent pancreatitis.

The abundance of natural acids in tomatoes can lead to an increase in the secretion of gastric juice.If a person suffers from gastritis with increased secretion, then after consuming tomatoes he may have heartburn or soreness in the stomach. People who have this disease also note that they have such unpleasant symptoms not only after eating fresh tomatoes, but also after taking meals that included tomato paste or ketchup. It is better to include tomatoes in the menu for people suffering from any chronic pathology of the gastrointestinal tract organs after visiting a gastroenterologist.

When eating tomatoes should be aware that when a bloating appears in the stomach, severe gas formation or diarrhea, the number of vegetables in the diet should be significantly reduced. If after that the state of health has not improved, you should not eat tomatoes for a while, and it is necessary to see the doctor and discuss with him the possible causes of adverse symptoms.

Tomatoes are among the vegetables, the use of which can lead to signs of allergies. It can manifest itself in different ways. One of the unfavorable symptoms, which is often detected after eating tomatoes, is a red itchy rash. Skin rashes, as a rule, appear within a few hours after eating tomatoes or for 2 days. If you experience an allergic rash or other signs of allergy, you should always consult with your allergist about the possibility of using tomatoes and dishes prepared with the addition of tomato paste.

Tomatoes can be used to prepare a huge number of delicious, and most importantly, healthy dishes. These vegetables can be eaten separately, as well as combining with others. Adding fragrant dressings and spices gives the dishes a piquancy and unique flavor notes.

In order to improve health, eat tomatoes better fresh. These vegetables are great for making healthy salads.

In order to cook it, you will need:

• cucumber - 1 pc. medium size;
• tomatoes - 2 pcs .;
• red sweet onions - 1 pc .;
• boiled turkey breast - 150 g;
• olives (pitted) - 10-15 pieces;
• cilantro greens;
• sweet paprika - 1 pc;
• any vegetable oil - 3-4 tbsp. l .;
• lemon juice - 1 tsp;
• honey - ½ tsp;
• salt - to taste;
• salad leaves (optional).

All vegetables must be well washed and dried. Cucumbers and tomatoes should be cut into large pieces, pepper - strips. Red onion is cut into half rings. Pre-cooked turkey breast should be cut into cubes of medium size.

For refueling, add honey, salt and lemon juice to vegetable oil, and then mix everything thoroughly. In a large salad bowl you need to put all the vegetables, olives, turkey and mix. Next, in the salad you need to add oil dressing and mix well again. If desired, you can fill the dish with low-fat sour cream or yogurt.

Some people prefer to eat tomatoes baked or boiled. In their opinion, the taste of such dishes becomes richer.Supporters of the use of tomatoes in the liver can make a very tasty hot snack.

To prepare this dish you will need:

• fresh tomatoes - 5-6 pieces;
• garlic - 1-2 cloves (optional);
• salt, a mixture of Provencal herbs - to taste;
• Mozzarella cheese - 200 g;
• olive oil - 40-50 ml.

Remove the stems from the tomatoes and cut them into circles about 1-1.5 cm thick. Garlic should be put through a press and mixed with a small amount of olive oil. Next, in the garlic-oil mixture, you must add salt and Provencal herbs. Cheese should be cut into circles about a centimeter thick.

After that, circles of tomatoes should be carefully put on a baking sheet, greased with butter. Top tomatoes need to pour garlic-oil mixture and cover with slices of cheese. To bake tomatoes should be in a preheated oven at 180 degrees for 12-15 minutes.

Eating a vegetable snack is better than warm. The combination of cheese with tomatoes is enjoyed by many lovers of delicious food. If desired, baked tomatoes can be cold. People who do not like garlic, can not put it, then this vegetable snack is suitable for breakfast.

Tomatoes can be cooked and delicious soups. They can be both hot and cold. They contain many vitamins that are necessary for the good functioning of the body. Tomatoes can make a very tasty vegetable first course.

This will require:

• peeled tomatoes - 4-6 pcs. medium size;
• carrot - ½ pcs .;
• bulb;
• vegetable oil - 3 tbsp. l .;
• celery stalks - 2-3 pcs .;
• tomato juice - 250 ml;
• boiled white beans (if desired, you can take canned) - 100 g;
• salt, black pepper, paprika - to taste.

In a pot with thick walls it is necessary to pour oil and heat a little. Carrots should be chopped on a coarse grater, and chop the onion and celery. Chopped vegetables should be fried in butter for 2-3 minutes. After that, they need to put tomatoes and beans, and then pour the tomato juice.

Boil the soup is better on low heat for 20 minutes. A couple of minutes before the end of cooking, add salt, ground black pepper and paprika to taste. Serve tomato soup is better with croutons from black bread. If desired, you can decorate the finished dish with chopped parsley.

In drawing up the menu, it should be remembered that the maximum amount of useful components is contained in fresh vegetables. That is why doctors recommend to eat salads and vegetable snacks made from fresh tomatoes.

People suffering from hypertension or who have a tendency to increase blood pressure should not add a lot of salt to vegetable dishes. Such an addition can lead to the fact that the body will eventually appear swelling. You can diversify the cooked tomato dish not only with ordinary salt, but also by adding various herbs. So, tomatoes are well combined with ground black pepper, basil, oregano, paprika and many other spices. When cooking delicious dishes do not be afraid of experiments. Even the usual vegetable salad with the addition of various herbs becomes incredibly tasty.

Doctors say that canned tomatoes should not be used by people suffering from peptic ulcer, gastritis or enteritis. The use of such vegetable snacks can provoke an exacerbation of a chronic disease.

Eating substandard vegetables can bring harm to the body instead of good.

In order not to make a mistake in choosing good tomatoes, you should use the following recommendations.

• When buying, pay attention to the appearance of vegetables. Rotten tomatoes can cause food poisoning. If the tomato is cracked or damaged, then buy it is not worth it.
• Ripened tomatoes in the sun have a very rich aroma. If the vegetables were harvested green or immature, then they practically do not smell.

• When choosing tomatoes, choose those, the stalk of which is not damaged. If there are cracks on the stalks, pathogens can get into them. Eating such vegetables can lead to toxic infections.
• Try to choose medium-sized vegetables. There are usually more nutrients in them.
• It is better to buy tomatoes in season. In the cold season, the risk that vegetables will contain nitrates and other chemical additives that can cause harm to the body is much higher.

For the benefits and harm of tomatoes, see the following video.