Indian and Continental staples like butter chicken, paneer pasanda, rasam, bruschetta, and pizza cannot be imagined without tomatoes. It’s almost impossible to replicate the same flavour using any other vegetable, fruit, or substitute. While the fruit was introduced to Indians in the 16th century by the Portuguese, it is a staple in the regional cuisines of the country.
It has a slight sourness and sweetness that make it distinct from other fruits and vegetables, and it is versatile at the same time. It can be used to prepare soups, sauces, curries, starters, and even a few desserts. Tomato is not used around the world for just its flavour but also for its health benefits. Read what the years of research suggest.
Tomato Benefits: Promotes Heart Health
The humble tomato in your refrigerator is the key to boosting your heart health. A 2022 study published in Frontiers in Nutrition says that vitamin B and potassium in the fruit can help to lower the levels of LDL and blood pressure, two major reasons for several cardiovascular conditions. Making it a part of your diet can help you keep your heart in check and lead a healthy life.
Tomato Benefits: Strengthens Bones
Nutrients has a study published in October 2020 stating that green tomatoes might have the potential to prevent bone loss. The fruit, often used as a vegetable, is also rich in vitamin K, which strengthens bones. From making soups to adding to curries or preparing pasta sauces, this staple in your kitchen is helping you keep your body fit and strong.
Tomato Benefits: Good For Eyes
Research published in the Journal of Nutrition and Metabolism indicates that lutein, carotenoids, and zeaxanthin in tomatoes might benefit the eyes. They can prevent age-related macular degeneration and even filter blue light that can have a harmful impact on retinas. Whether or not you wear spectacles, this fruit will keep your sight healthy. It is especially good for people who sit in front of the screens throughout the day and cannot get rid of it even beyond work hours.
Tomato Benefits: Promotes Healthy Skin
A study published by Biology in February 2022 pointed out that lycopene in fruits is associated with shielding the skin from the harms of UV rays. The National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases (NIAMS), part of the NIH, conducts research on skin health, and antioxidants present in the fruit are found to benefit the epidermal layer. Regular consumption might improve pigmentation and other skin-related conditions.
Tomato Benefits: Boosts Immunity
As mentioned above, tomatoes are rich in antioxidants. These potent compounds are needed by the body to neutralise free radicals which are sources for many chronic diseases. Moreover, these red fruits have vitamin C, another nutrient that is known to boost immunity and keep you healthy. The inclusion of it in your diet is good for your skin, digestion, heart, bones, and immunity. What more can you expect from an ingredient?
Disclaimer: The above-mentioned benefits of the ingredient are based on the studies. Slurrp is not prescribing its consumption to heal or cure any diseases. You must consult a doctor in case of heart, bone, skin, and eye ailments.