Healthful Benefits of the Citrus Fruit Tomato

Tomatoes are the most versatile fruit that can be eaten raw and is used in sandwiches, pizza, vegetables, soups, gravy and sauces. The citrus fruit tomatoes are juicy, sweet and tasty. It is said that one serving of red raw tomatoes is a very good source of Vitamins A, C, K, folate and potassium. They are a rich source of thiamin, niacin, vitamin B6, magnesium, phosphorus and copper. They are good for health as they are naturally low in sodium, saturated fat and cholesterol. Being low in calories, they are very healthy and are easily available. They can help you lose weight also if you are on a sensible diet and exercise plan. They make a great snack as they contain lots of water and fiber.

Tomatoes are high in water content which makes them a good diet food. Eating them daily provides protection against high blood pressure, strokes, heart disease and high cholesterol. Being rich in vitamin K and calcium they are good for strengthening and repairing bones. They are good source chromium which helps to control the body’s blood sugar level.

Lycopene found in tomatoes also have many benefits some of which are listed below:

• Lycopene found in them makes the skin less sensitive to UV rays damage, thereby helping the skin against run burns.

• Lycopene in them improves bone mass, which aids in fighting osteoporosis.

• Lycopene can diminish the risk of several cancers, including prostate, cervical, mouth, pharynx, throat, esophagus, stomach, colon, rectal, prostate and ovarian cancer.

Tomatoes can keep your blood sugar in balance. Being a very good source of chromium they help in regulating blood sugar level. Vitamin A present in them can improve vision, prevent night blindness and make hair strong and shiny. Recent research shows that consuming them may help reduce the risk of macular degeneration which is a serious and irreversible eye condition. They can help prevent kidney stones and gallstones. Studies by researchers suggest that people who eat them are less likely to have stones.