Tomato 9 Benefits, Side Effects, Storage

Tomato Nutrition

Tomato is fruits grown from South America and are characterized by sweet taste. It is a fruit that can be eaten all year round and is rich in moisture and antioxidants, which has the effect of improving heart health and immunity and preventing various cancers. Nowadays, you can eat various types of tomatoes such as stevia, jujube and cherry tomatoes.

tomato benefits

1. Prevention of cardiovascular disease

Tomatoes are rich in antioxidants, including lycopene, which can be very beneficial to heart health. This was especially good when you ate a dish that included juice and sauce, and it has an excellent effect on preventing various heart diseases such as myocardial infarction.

2. Increased energy

Drinking tomato juice every day can make sperm’s movements more active. Active sperm movement is very good for enhancing male stamina and can prevent various urinary diseases such as prostatitis.

3. Vision health

Lycopene and vitamins may promote vision health. It can also improve eye diseases such as glaucoma and cataracts. Eating two to three raw tomatoes a day and one to two bottles of juice a day can have a good effect.

4. Prevention of diabetes

It also has a good effect on type 2 diabetes. As it contains beta-carotene, which can improve blood sugar levels, including it in the diet of diabetic patients can be very beneficial in managing blood sugar levels to prevent and improve diabetes.

5. Anticancer activity

Lycopene and beta-carotene, known as powerful antioxidants, can lower the risk of developing various cancers, including stomach cancer, liver cancer, cervical cancer, and prostate cancer. These antioxidants can protect cells in the body and even kill cancer cells.

6. Relieving Constipation

Eating tomatoes that contain a lot of fiber and water can relieve constipation. It softens stools, prevents constipation, and helps promote healthy bowel movements.

7. Skin health

One European study found that consuming tomatoes with olive oil promoted collagen production. Collagen production has a very good effect on skin health, and antioxidants and vitamin supply are the most important ingredients for the skin. It is also effective in removing salt from the body, so it is good for removing swelling.

8. Muscle recovery

Most athletes eat tomatoes for dishes such as juice and ketchup. This can help you recover your muscles quickly. One study also reported that ketchup along with protein made muscle growth more active.

9. Improve immunity

In addition, dietary fiber and beta-carotene contained in tomatoes are very helpful in improving immunity. It supports intestinal movement to keep the intestines healthy and improves the environment for lactic acid bacteria to proliferate, thereby increasing immunity.

10. Diet

Tomatoes are low in calories and rich in nutrients, making them great for dieting. However, if you eat it on an empty stomach in the morning, it can cause side effects such as indigestion, so it is recommended to take it with eggs or onions that are compatible with it. It can also help with diet when taken with salt to reduce sugar intake.

Storage Method

• Store at room temperature: Fruit can be stored at room temperature in a basket with the stem down. At this time, if you store it in a cool place without direct sunlight, it can be stored longer.
• Refrigerate: Drain the tomatoes, individually wrap them, and store in the refrigerator. Storage period is up to 10 days.
• To freeze: Blanch the tomatoes for about 1 minute and remove the skins. Divide into portion sizes, place in ziplock bags, and store in the freezer.

Side Effect

1. Heartburn and indigestion – Consuming tomatoes on an empty stomach may cause side effects such as heartburn, indigestion, and gastritis.
2. Toxicity and bitter taste – Immature tomatoes contain a poison called solanine and have a bitter taste, so it is best to consume them after ripening.
3. Constipation and abdominal pain – Excessive intake of dietary fiber can cause abdominal pain, bloating, and constipation.
4. Allergies – Depending on your constitution, you may experience allergic reactions such as dizziness, migraines, and itching.
5. Gout aggravation – In rare cases, it may trigger a gout attack. Gout patients are advised not to consume it as it increases uric acid levels.

References

🔹ClevelandClinic: Health Benefits of Tomatoes
🔹Verywell Health: 6 Health Benefits of Tomatoes
🔹BBC: Michael Mosley: Cook tomatoes to boost their health benefits