NUTRITION IN TOMATO

Combination of antioxidant and anti-inflammatory nutrients in tomatoes, the potential of tomato consumption to support our cardiovascular system and lower our cardiovascular risk 

tomatoes consistently show a very different relationship in which tomato intake is associated with decreased risk of unwanted inflammation and decreased risk of oxidative stress as well.

 tomatoes actually offer an extensive list of health-supportive phytonutrients. This list includes flavonoids, carotenoids, saponins, and fatty acid derivatives.

tomatoes also provide us with a good number of conventional antioxidants, including excellent amounts of vitamin C; very good amounts of vitamin E, vitamin A (in the form of carotenoids), and manganese; and good amounts of zinc and chromium.

tomato intake has been shown to result in decreased total cholesterol, decreased LDL cholesterol, and decreased triglyceride levels

Another area of increasing interest in tomatoes and heart health involves blood cells called platelets. The excessive clumping together of platelet cells can cause problems for our bloodstream in terms of blockage and unwanted clotting, and prevention of this excessive clumping is important for maintaining heart health. Numerous phytonutrients in tomatoes have been shown to help prevent excessive clumping of our platelet cells.

HOW TO SELECT BEST TOMATO

Tomato skins should be bright in color and tight (not wrinkled). Grape tomatoes should also be firm to mostly firm when gently squeezed. The fruit should also be free of bruises, cracks or blemishes.

HOW TO STORE TOMATO

Grape tomatoes are best when stored at room temperature out of direct sunlight or in the refrigerator crisper in a plastic clamshell or paper bag. Tomatoes may be stored up to 5 days, but may have the best flavor when eaten within the first 3 days.

HOW TO PREPARE

Rinse tomatoes before slicing or eating. Grape tomatoes can be rinsed in a colander with cool running water or washed individually. Place on a clean paper towel to dry.

HEALTH BENEFITS OF TOMATO

Low calorie, very low in fat, cholesterol-free, sodium-free, and a good source of fiber. Grape tomatoes contain lycopene, vitamins A & C as well as other vitamins and minerals.

• Grape tomatoes are a good source of fiber. One cup contains 16% of the daily value. Eat up! Fiber is an important nutrient for your heart and your digestive tract.
• Grape tomatoes have vitamins A and C. Vitamin A supports eye, bone, and skin health and protects against infection. Vitamin C is needed by the body for healing. It works as a powerful antioxidant that supports a healthy immune system and may reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease and other disease-related conditions.
• Tomatoes are rich in lycopene which is a valuable antioxidant with health-protecting effects.

Dietician Neelam Dhanagar