Five reasons why tomatoes are good for your health

A health-focused media outlet actively recommended not only eating raw tomatoes but also cooking them with cooking oil or making juice to drink. Juiced form makes it easy to consume antioxidant nutrients such as lycopene and beta-carotene, and it also allows for the intake of water-soluble dietary fiber from tomatoes, which is beneficial for intestinal health. Additionally, 100% freshly squeezed tomato juice without salt or artificial sweeteners is even more ideal. When consumed with healthy fats like avocado or extra virgin olive oil, the absorption of lycopene, a key phytochemical in tomatoes that is fat-soluble, becomes much smoother. The cooking process can even increase the lycopene content, thereby enhancing absorption in the body.

Firstly, aids in cancer prevention. According to a 2018 study published in 'Prostate Cancer and Prostatic Diseases,' men who frequently consume tomatoes have a lower risk of developing prostate cancer. This is thanks to the antioxidant compounds rich in tomatoes, such as lycopene and beta-carotene. These antioxidants are believed to prevent cell damage, inhibit the progression to cancer cells, and potentially induce the apoptosis of existing cancer cells.

Secondly, promoting heart health. Heart disease is ranked as the leading cause of death among American adults. A 2022 study published in 'Biology' reported that frequent consumption of tomatoes can reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease by 14%. In particular, there are studies indicating that higher blood levels of lycopene are associated with better heart health.

3. Prevention of constipation. Tomatoes are rich in both soluble and insoluble dietary fibers, which are beneficial for intestinal health. The soluble dietary fiber remaining in freshly squeezed juice absorbs water during digestion, transforming into a gel that promotes digestion. Insoluble dietary fiber makes bowel movements easier. The cellulose, hemicellulose, and pectin in tomatoes are not easily broken down in the large intestine, helping to form healthy stool.

Fourth, reduction of risk for Type 2 (adult-onset) diabetes. There is research indicating that lycopene in tomatoes can prevent cell damage and reduce inflammation, thereby contributing to the prevention of Type 2 diabetes (Molecules, 2022).

Fifth, protecting brain health. Alzheimer's disease is a typical degenerative brain disorder that rapidly increases among the population aged 65 and older. The antioxidant components in tomatoes can have a positive effect on protecting brain cells and slowing down the decline in cognitive function.

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At this point, all the talk about superfoods and everything else is unnecessary; shouldn't we just love tomatoes?

Tomatoes are love~