Tomatoes: Learn the advantages of this succulent produce

Friday, September 13, 2013 by: Yanjun
Tags: tomatoes, health benefits, succulent produce

(NaturalNews) Tomatoes are quickly gaining recognition and acceptance for being a superfood in their own right. Eating tomatoes is great because this food has plenty of health benefits: It contains high amounts of lycopene, which is deemed to have antioxidant function; its a rich source of potassium; it is high in fiber, low in calories and non starchy, so it can promote weight loss effectively.

In order to compel people to eat more of these succulent produce, what follows is a list of advantages of doing so.

1. An Abundance of Lycopene is Good for the Heart

Lycopene is a carotenoid, which is a phytonutrient contained in tomatoes. It has been shown to offer a number of health benefits. Consuming tomatoes frequently can reduce the likelihood of having a stroke. The incidence of heart disease itself can be lowered by eating a tomato rich diet. The levels of total cholesterol, triglycerides and LDL cholesterol are all lowered when an individual eats tomatoes on a regular basis. Clumping of the blood, which puts an individual at high risk for atherosclerosis, or hardening of the arteries, is also reduced when eating tomatoes.

2. Lycopene: The Anti-Aging Cancer Fighter

Studies have shown that tomatoes contain agents that help prevent cancer. Colon cancer, breast cancer and prostate cancers are some of the cancers that respond particularly well when the diet contains lots of tomatoes. In addition, they are also prized for their anti-aging properties. A reduction in osteoporosis in women can be realized by eating a diet rich in tomatoes.

3. Provides Other Pytochemicals

Tomatoes are rich in other phytochemicals, such as zeaxanthin, betacarotene and lutein, as well. These nutrients have been proven to help reduce the degeneration of the eyesight. They can also improve vision.

4. Diabetics Benefit

Recent research suggests that eating a sufficient amount of tomatoes can actually change a person's biochemistry. In doing so, all traces of diabetes disappears and the biochemistry actually becomes normal.

5. Fat Burning Immune System Booster

Since they contain a great deal of vitamin C, tomatoes provide a needed boost to the immune system. Carnitine, an amino acid contained in tomatoes, has also been proven to increase the ability of the body to burn fat.

6. Very Versatile

Tomatoes are one of the most versatile foods, and can be used in soups, salads, pasta dishes and more. Both raw and cooked tomatoes offer highly prized benefits. Red tomatoes can be joined by yellow and orange hues so an individual can enjoy the full range of health benefits.

Sources for this article include:

http://www.medindia.net

http://www.medindia.net

http://science.naturalnews.com/Tomatoes.html

About the author:
Sofiya has written articles on most health-related topics, including traditional medicine, alternative and naturopathic and natural treatments,health insurance, wellness, medical marijuana, diets and fitness.