Tomato is a flowering plant coming from the nightshade family (Solanaceae), cultivated extensively for its edible fruits. Tomatoes originated from Western South America, Mexico and Central Africa. The Mexican Nahuatl word tomatl gave rise to the Spanish word tomate, from which the English word tomato derived.
Tomatoes are loaded with a substance called lycopene. It gives them their bright red color and helps protect them from the ultraviolet rays of the sun. In much the same way, it can help protect your cells from damage. Tomatoes also have potassium, vitamins B and E, and other nutrients.
The fruits are commonly eaten raw in salads, served as a cooked vegetable, used as an ingredient of various prepared dishes, and pickled. Additionally, a large percentage of the world’s tomato crop is used for processing; products include canned tomatoes, tomato juice, ketchup, puree, paste, and “sun-dried” tomatoes or dehydrated pulp.
Below are some of the health benefits of tomato:
- TOMATOES ARE GOOD FOR THE HEART.
Because of the Vitamin B and potassium in tomatoes, they are effective in reducing cholesterol levels and lowering blood pressure. Therefore, by including tomatoes in your regular balanced diet you can effectively prevent heart attacks, strokes as well as many other heart related problems that may threaten your life.
- TOMATOES ARE GOOD FOR THE EYES.
The Vitamin A found in tomatoes is fantastic for improving your vision. In addition, eating tomatoes is one of the best foods to eat to prevent the development of night blindness.
- IT IS GOOD FOR YOUR HAIR.
The Vitamin A in tomatoes works perfectly to keep your hair shiny and strong. In addition, it also does wonders for your eyes, skin, bones and teeth.
- IT HELPS MAINTAIN STRONG BONES.
Tomatoes contain a considerable amount of calcium and Vitamin K. Both of these nutrients are essential in strengthening and performing minor repairs on the bones as well as the bone tissue.
REFFERENCES
- TOMATO HISTORY. RETRIEVED 27TH JULY 2017.
- ENCYCLOPAEDIA BRITANNICA. 4TH JANUARY 2018.
- COM # WELLNESS TOPIC.# NUTRITION.
ARTICLE BY ANUM JUSTICE GIDEON OBODAI.