The Brilliant Benefits of Tomatoes: More Than Just a Red Delight

Tomatoes are high in the antioxidant Lycopene, which has been linked to many health benefits including reduced cancer risk as well as heart disease.

The tomato is a fruit from the nightshade family, which also includes potatoes, chilli peppers and tobacco. These plants are native to south America, but can be grown widely across the globe, either in greenhouses or outside.

Although tomatoes are a fruit, they are generally eaten and prepared as if a vegetable.

Nutrition

Tomatoes have a water content of around 95%, with the remaining 5% consisting predominantly of carbohydrates and fibre. The carbohydrates are mainly simple sugars such as glucose and fructose.

Tomatoes are high in:

• Vitamin C, an essential nutrient and antioxidant. Integral in the formation of collagen
• Potassium, an electrolyte mineral that helps nerve and muscle function. Aids in heartbeat regulation.
• Vitamin K1, needed for blood clotting and bone health.
• Vitamin B9 (folate), important for tissue growth and cell function. Needed by pregnant women.

Summarise: Tomatoes are a good source of many essential vitamins and minerals.

Uses

Tomatoes are used in a variety of ways in Mediterranean cooking. They are an integral part of many pasta sauces. In the form of passata they are used on pizza bases, and other dishes. In their whole form they are used in salads, pasta dishes and other dishes such as Greek feta and tomatoes.