Tomatoes, tomatoes, tomatoes! Such a versatile fruit that, unsurprisingly is the most eaten fruit in the world. We put them in sauces, salads, soups, garnishes, condiments and even drinks… and it turns out that tomatoes are also good for your health too. What a bonus! Read below to find out how tomatoes can be good for your health…
Good for your heart
Tomatoes are very high in potassium and an 80g serving of tomatoes a day includes about 5% of our recommended daily potassium needs. Potassium is one of the most important minerals in the body and eating lots of high potassium foods may help reduce blood pressure, heart disease as well as water retention. It may also help prevent strokes and kidney stones too.
Tomatoes are in Lycopene, a plant compound which gives tomatoes their vibrant red colour. This compound found in tomatoes has been linked to improved heart health and potentially reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease.
Good for your eyes
Tomatoes contain carotenoids, such as lycopene, lutein and beta-carotene. These are important to our bodies to maintain eye health and may protect against certain eye diseases too.
Good for your skin
Studies show that the carotenoids found in tomatoes may also help prevent UV damage. But this doesn’t mean that if you eat a lot of tomatoes you are protected by the sun, still make sure you follow guidelines and take care when in the sun.
Vitamins
Tomatoes are high in vitamins A, C and E which all help keep our skin, bones and teeth in great condition. They will also boost your immune system.
Tomatoes also provide us a with a good source of Vitamin K which helps with blood clotting and healing our wounds.
Balanced Diet
As every food, tomatoes should be consumed as part of a balanced diet – for some tasty recipe ideas click here!
