Health Benefits of Tomatoes

Not many people know that tomatoes are in fact fruits, not vegetables. That being said, tomatoes are extremely rich in nutrients and come with numerous health benefits. As a result, they should not miss from your diet. Tomatoes contain copper, vitamins K, C and A, phosphorus, folate, magnesium, potassium, vitamin B6, niacin and thiamin. At the same time, they are low in calories, sodium, cholesterol and saturated fat. Below you can discover some of its various health benefits.

Promote Eye Health

Tomatoes contain large amounts of vitamins C and A that will prevent night blindness and improve your vision. The vitamin A found in tomatoes also has the ability to decrease the risk of developing macular degeneration, an irreversible and serious eye condition. Cataracts can also be prevented with tomatoes. Last, but not least, these fruits contain lycopene, lutein and zeaxanthin that can protect your eyes against the light damage.

Rejuvenate the Skin

If you want your skin to look glowing and healthy, then you should consume tomatoes. The lycopene found in this fruit is an antioxidant that fights against sun damage and protects the skin. It also has the ability to increase the skin’s capability of fighting against ultraviolet light damage that leads to wrinkles. Tomatoes can also treat minor burns, heal rashes and acne and shrink large pores. You can rejuvenate your skin by simply rubbing some fresh tomato pulp on your skin.

Prevent Cancer

A recent study has discovered that tomatoes can reduce the risk of developing prostate cancer. The antioxidant lycopene found in tomatoes can also prevent other forms of cancer such as ovarian, lung, rectal, stomach, colon, cervical, esophagus, throat, pharynx and mouth. When tomatoes are cooked with olive oil, another powerful anti-cancer fighter, they are even more beneficial.

Decreases Blood Pressure

The potassium found in tomatoes can lower the blood pressure. This mineral can eliminate the sodium from your body and promote normal blood pressure. Eating tomatoes every day or consuming tomato juice daily can also reduce the chances of developing heart diseases. Tomatoes also contain carotenoids, lycopene, fiber and vitamins C and A that are great for the health of your heart.

Combat Hair Problems

Tomatoes are not only good for your skin, but also for your hair. They are rich in iron and vitamin A that can strengthen your hair and make it look more glowing. So, if you have lifeless, damaged or dull locks, using a home remedy made of tomatoes is the answer for your problem. These fruits can even control the pH levels of your hair because they are acidic. Those who deal with dandruff and itchy scalp can also benefit from the tomatoes’ properties. Use fresh tomato juice to massage your hair and scalp, leave it on for a couple of minutes and then use cold water to cleanse. Do not use this remedy more than once a week, as it can make your hair dry.

Tomatoes are also beneficial for conditions and diseases such as bone problems, high blood sugar levels, insomnia, extra weight and chronic pain.