|
Tomatoes - those beautiful red fruits are adorning our tables sometimes twice a day. We thought you might like to know some interesting health facts about tomatoes - you will probably want them for breakfast as well as lunch and tea. Read on ... What are the nutritional benefits of tomatoes? Tomatoes are a good source of Vitamins A, C and E, the natural plant pigments known as carotenoids (both beta-carotene and lycopene) and flavonoids. Flavonoids are also found in red wine and tea. Tomatoes contain minerals such as potassium, which has been linked to lowering blood pressure and calcium, which is vital for healthy bones and teeth.
What is the link between tomatoes and cancer prevention? The vitamins and antioxidants found in tomatoes are thought to combat
the harmful effects of free radicals (rogue molecules) that cause cell
damage - a precursor of conditions such as heart disease and cancer.
Although their role as antioxidants is the most popular explanation for the
benefit of tomatoes and their constituents in the diet, not all scientists
agree with this theory and some believe that other mechanisms are
involved. Whatever the means, there seems no disagreement about the
potential benefits. Recent research has shown that the pigment lycopene, the stuff that
makes most ripe tomatoes red, may be particularly active in protecting
the body against heart disease and some forms of cancer. Lycopene is
more readily absorbed into the bloodstream when tomatoes are cooked
with certain oils, such as olive oil. Processed tomatoes may contain
additives such as salt (up to a hundred times more than in fresh
tomatoes!), however, and are not produced to the same production
protocols as fresh British tomatoes. Research has shown that ripe, British tomatoes have a considerably higher lycopene content than was thought to be the case (up to three
times the usually quoted figures), especially when compared with
imported, long-life types which are low in lycopene.
What is the calorie content of tomatoes? Tomatoes are low in calories, typically containing only 14 calories per
100g. They contain virtually no fat and no cholesterol.
How much fibre is there in tomatoes? The fibre content of a ripe tomato fruit is 1.5% of total composition.
What is the water content of tomatoes?
Water content is between 93-95% of total fruit composition
Do you lose nutrients through cooking tomatoes?
There is a certain amount lost through cooking, vitamin C and
flavonoids in particular. Cooking may increase the concentration of
other nutrients, such as lycopene. The best option is to eat plenty of
tomatoes, both raw and cooked.
|
