Surprising Health Benefits of Tomatoes
We already love tomatoes for their heart-supportive powers. But new research on their lesser-known health gifts means you should eat them even more often.
We're talking about gifts like protection against brittle bones, cancer, and even ultraviolet (UV) radiation. So no matter how you slice 'em, put extra 'maters on your sandwiches, salads, and pizzas, too.
Top Tomato Tidbits
Yep, tomatoes seem to do it all, probably thanks to their nutritional profile. They're a rich source of lycopene, beta carotene, lutein, potassium, and vitamins C and A -- nutrients known to help fight inflammation and confer these stellar health benefits:
- Extra SPF for skin: Studies have shown that skin becomes less sensitive to UV light damage when lycopene intake is increased through tomato-paste consumption. (Find out what other foods help provide sun protection.)
- Extra strength for bones: Higher lycopene intakes have been linked to better bone mass in studies. And a deficiency may mean weaker bones; women with osteoporosis typically have low blood levels of lycopene. (Add this starch to your dinner, too, for healthier bones.)
- Extra protection from cancer: Although the cancer protection powers of tomatoes are still under investigation, research suggests that the lycopene in tomatoes may slow the growth of some prostate tumors. (Here's another great fruit that helps thwart cancer.)
Canned Advantage?
Fresh, ripe tomatoes aren't easy to come by year-round. But canned tomatoes are just as good for you -- possibly even better. The cooking and canning process may increase the bioavailability of lycopene, so your body gets even more. Add a little bit of olive oil and you'll absorb still more. (Ever made your own tomato sauce? It's easy to do with this Fresh Tomato Sauce recipe from EatingWell.)
