The health benefits of tomatoes include improved heart health, vision and eye protection, healthier skin, and more.
1. Combats Cancer
Studies have found that consuming tomatoes can play a role in the prevention of prostate cancer because of their lycopene content. The lycopene becomes more readily available after the tomatoes are cooked. Tomatoes also contain phytochemicals that can fight other chronic diseases. (1)
2. Helps Maintain Bone Health
Lycopene has also been found to increase bone health (especially in the elderly). Tomatoes and other foods with lycopene are normally recommended for an anti-aging diet. Plus, the 12% DV of vitamin K found in tomatoes can prevent osteoporosis. (2)
SEE ALSO: 24 Healthiest Foods On Earth
3. Promotes Healthy Skin
Tomatoes high content of vitamin C is great for keeping skin’s natural immunity, appearance, elasticity, and complexion until old age. Most of the vitamin C is found in the juice of the tomato. (3)
4. Natural Anti-Inflammatory
Tomatoes contain essential phytochemicals and antioxidants that lower inflammation which decrease chances of heart disease, cancer, arthritis, and cognitive decline. Cooking can increase lycopene availability; however, cooking will decrease readily available anti-inflammatory nutrients. (4)
5. Can Improve Heart Health
The antioxidants in tomatoes fight free radical damage and protect the body from disease-causing, oxidative stress. Studies have found that lycopene may also prevent coronary heart disease by reducing bad cholesterol (LDL). (5)
6. Helps Protect Vision & Eye Health
Another compound that is found in tomatoes is lutein. Lutein is extremely healthy for your eyes and has been found to protect the retina from old age and naturally treat macular degeneration. (6)
7. Aids Digestion
Tomatoes are a good way to prevent diarrhea, constipation, and jaundice (yellowing skin). Their high amounts of fiber stimulate smooth digestive muscles and can help regulate bowel movements. (7)
8. May Help Prevent Urinary Tract Infections
Tomatoes are almost 95% water which can help reduce urinary tract infections as well as bladder cancer by eliminating toxins from the body – such as salts, uric acid, and some fats too.
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