1. Load up on lycopene
The antioxidant properties of lycopene may protect our immune cells
from destructive free radicals, molecules that can harm cells and damage
DNA. The best way to get lycopene’which is in the skin, and gives red
tomatoes their rich colour’is through cooked or processed tomatoes
(juice, sauce and paste). Cook tomatoes with a little healthy oil (e.g.,
olive or canola), which helps carry the lycopene into the bloodstream.
2. Care for your heart
Tomatoes are rich in vitamin C, which, like lycopene, is linked to
reducing the risk of heart disease. Most of the vitamin C is
concentrated in the jelly-like substance that encases the seeds.
Tomatoes are also high in salicylates, which have an anti-clotting
effect on the blood, and may be partially responsible for tomatoes’
protective effect against heart disease. Many recipes advise removing
the seeds to prevent a bitter flavour. But to conserve nutrients, use
plum tomatoes, which have less-bitter seeds.
3. Help control asthma
A new Australian study found that adequate intake of lycopene and vitamin A helped reduce exercise-induced asthma symptoms.
4. Feed your bones
Tomatoes contain vitamin K, which plays a key role in clotting blood
and maintaining strong bones. And, research from Boston University
found that vitamin K deficiency is linked to a higher prevalence of hand
and knee osteoarthritis.
5. Add vitamin A
Vitamin A helps maintain healthy skin, hair, mucous membrances, bones
and teeth. One cup (250 mL) of chopped tomatoes provides over half of
the recommended daily amount of vitamin A for women.
Source :
besthealthmag
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