Tomato is healthy for you

Tomatoes can easily be tossed into a salad either with chat masala or even with leaves and a sprinkle of olive oil with salt and pepper….

Let me dismiss the misconception that existed about years ago, that the tomato was a vegetable which had no nutritional value and it was used only for its colour and flavour.

I want every single person to know the truest potential of your ordinary tomato. Most people completely disregard the tomato but to me, it is a 'superfood' and I am going to tell you why.

Tomatoes have exceptional nutritional and health-giving qualities. They are bursting with important macro and micronutrients such as calcium, phosphorus, iron and vitamin C and they also contain an important phytochemical called Lycopene, which I consider a natural miracle 'pill'. Lycopene is multifaceted; not only does it help with cancer; it also keeps cholesterol in check and drives away any risk of heart disease.

I would like to point out an important fact about tomatoes- when cooked, the lycopene content in tomato is increased. Let me break down each benefit of this fruit so that you have a better understanding of how it helps you-

Cancer

As I mentioned above, tomatoes contain a very important phytochemical lycopene. Lycopene is a carotenoid and acts as an exceptionally strong antioxidant. It is also responsible for giving tomatoes their vibrant red colour. This phytochemical plays a big role in the reversal and retardation of cancer, especially prostate cancer.

Eyes, hair and skin

Another antioxidant and carotenoid present in tomatoes is beta-carotene. The body converts beta-carotene into vitamin A which is aids in bettering vision. Not only that, but Vitamin A also prevents eye diseases. Additionally, it promotes healthy hair, teeth and gums.

Antibiotic

One of the most important micronutrients that are present in tomatoes is Vitamin C. This vitamin is known as the 'antibiotic' vitamin, and for good reason. It helps the body to absorb iron, as well as fight off common colds and infections. The riper the tomato, higher its content of vitamin C.

Dieter's delight

Tomatoes are a dieter's delight! One raw tomato has about 18-22 calories, with no fat content. Anyone that is on a weight loss diet can depend heavily on tomatoes as it low in calories and provides the body with all the necessary micronutrients such as vitamin C, calcium, phosphorus, vitamin A etc.

Pain reliever

There is an anti-inflammatory property in tomatoes. By eating tomatoes, the inflammation in your body reduces which enables the weight loss hormone in your body, known as Leptin, function properly.

Weight loss

Leptin, which is released when inflammation goes down in your body, plays an important role in appetite control, metabolism and weight loss. It is your body's natural weight control mechanism.

Blood sugar

Carbohydrates get metabolised quickly and cause a blood sugar spike. Tomatoes have a low carbohydrate content which makes them a good option for diabetics as it has a low glycaemic index.

My favourite part about tomatoes is how easy they are to incorporate into a diet. The versatility of a tomato allows it to be eaten raw, cooked or juiced. This also means that it can be a part of every single meal without getting bored of it.

At breakfast you can add tomato to anything; from your toast to your upma to your poha or in your sambhar or even in your eggs.

In our traditional Indian diets, tomatoes are added to vegetables and dals to add extra flavour. It can easily be tossed into a salad either with chat masala or even with leaves and a sprinkle of olive oil with salt and pepper.