Want to Improve Your Life?
Eat A Tomato!
Tomatoes are one of the most popular and versatile fruits in the world. They can be eaten raw, cooked, or processed into sauces, soups, juices, and ketchup. They come in different shapes, sizes, colors, and flavors, from sweet cherry tomatoes to tangy green tomatoes. But did you know that tomatoes are also good for your health and happiness? Here are some of the reasons why you should eat more tomatoes and how to enjoy them in fun and delicious ways.
Brain Power from Super Tomatoes
Tomatoes are rich in lycopene, a red pigment and antioxidant that protects your brain cells from damage and inflammation. Lycopene also helps improve the communication between your neurons, which enhances your memory, learning, and mood. One study found that older adults who drank tomato juice every day for 12 weeks improved their cognitive function and mental well-being compared to a placebo group. Another study found that children who ate tomatoes before taking a test performed better than those who did not. Start your day with tomatoes to give your brain a boost!
Keep Your Heart Pumping with ‘Love Apples’
Tomatoes are also a great source of fiber, potassium, and vitamin C, which are all important for keeping your heart healthy. Fiber lowers your cholesterol levels and prevents plaque buildup in your arteries. Potassium regulates your blood pressure and balances the effects of sodium. Vitamin C strengthens your blood vessels and prevents inflammation. A meta-analysis of 22 studies found that eating more tomatoes and other lycopene-rich foods was associated with lower blood pressure and LDL cholesterol, which are risk factors for heart disease and stroke. Eat a tomato every day and get heart healthy!
Are Tomatoes a Fountain of Youth?
Tomatoes are also an excellent source of antioxidants, which are substances that protect your skin from free radical damage. Free radicals are unstable molecules that can harm your skin cells and cause wrinkles, sagging, and aging. Antioxidants neutralize free radicals and prevent or repair the damage they cause. Tomatoes contain several types of antioxidants, such as lycopene, beta carotene, and vitamin C, which have anti-aging and anti-cancer effects. Tomatoes also contain vitamin C, which is vital for collagen synthesis, which is the protein that gives your skin its elasticity and firmness. Remember, every time you eat a tomato, you are looking younger!
Tomatoes are a Culinary Delight!
Now that you know how good tomatoes are for you, you might want to try some recipes at home. Well, the good news is that tomatoes are very versatile and can be used in many different dishes and cuisines. Here are some of the most popular and easy ways to prepare tomatoes:
Salad. Cut the tomatoes into slices or wedges and toss them with some lettuce, cucumber, onion, cheese, olives, and your favorite dressing. You can also add some herbs, nuts, seeds, or fruits for extra flavor and crunch. Tomato salad is a refreshing and nutritious side dish or snack that you can enjoy anytime.
Soup. Blend the tomatoes with some water, broth, garlic, onion, basil, and salt. You can also add some cream, yogurt, or cheese for a creamier texture. You can also cook the tomato soup with some rice, pasta, beans, or meat for a more filling meal. Tomato soup is a warm and comforting dish that you can have for lunch or dinner.
Sandwich. Slice the tomatoes and layer them with some cheese, ham, turkey, or tuna on a bread of your choice. You can also add some lettuce, spinach, avocado, or mayo for more flavor and moisture. Toast the sandwich or grill it for a crispy and melty result. Tomato sandwich is a simple and satisfying dish that you can have for breakfast or lunch.
Pizza. Make a pizza crust out of flour, yeast, water, oil, and salt. Spread some tomato sauce, cheese, and your favorite toppings on the crust. Bake the pizza in the oven for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the crust is golden. Tomato pizza is a delicious and fun dish that you can share with your friends and family.
As you can see, tomatoes are not only good for you, but also fun and delicious. They can help you improve your brain, heart, and skin health, as well as your mood and happiness. So, what are you waiting for? Grab some tomatoes and start enjoying their benefits today!
By Betsey Sorrell
