How many calories are in tomatoes?

Tomato is a type of vegetable with a red, fragrant, and juicy fruit. This plant is native to South and Central America, and was spread to other parts of the world during the Spanish colonial period. Various types of this plant are now cultivated worldwide. Although "tomato" is considered a vegetable in horticultural science due to its lack of seeds, it is scientifically classified as a fruit.

Tomato contains 18 calories per 100 grams.

This fruit is now consumed in various ways, whether raw or as an ingredient in cooking, different sauces, and beverages, and it forms an important part of the diet of many people around the world. Cultivation of this plant covers an area of approximately three million hectares, which accounts for nearly one-third of the total area dedicated to growing vegetables globally.

Although the tomato is considered a fruit in botanical science, in agricultural terms, it is often recognized as a vegetable.

Due to its economic importance, this plant has been the subject of many research studies and is recognized as a model plant in genetic science. Research conducted on this plant in 1990 led to the production of the first genetically modified variety approved for consumption and trade in the United States.

Tomatoes have many health benefits and contain high nutritional value, making them highly beneficial for the body. However, most of us are only familiar with the vitamin C content in tomatoes. Therefore, in this article from Ghafari Diet, we will explore the benefits of tomatoes for diabetes, weight loss, and more, to see to what extent tomatoes should be included in our diet. Stay with us until the end of this article.

Health Benefits of Tomatoes

Tomatoes contain high levels of antioxidants, zinc, potassium, fluorine, vitamin C, fiber, vitamin A, and more, which will be examined in the following sections.

Benefits of Tomatoes for Diabetes
Since tomatoes are rich in various vitamins and have very few calories, they are beneficial for all types of diets, including those for diabetics. Consuming tomatoes, whether cooked or raw, is not restricted for individuals with both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes, provided they avoid adding salt. Tomato juice can also be consumed as a low-calorie, low-sugar drink, but like all other foods, it is important to maintain moderation in its consumption.

One of the issues diabetic patients face is platelet adhesion, which increases the risk of atherosclerosis, cardiovascular diseases, and heart attacks or strokes, especially in patients with Type 2 diabetes. Thus, diabetic patients often take anticoagulant medications. In tomatoes, a substance is present in the yellow gel surrounding the seeds that has anticoagulant properties. Thus, the benefits of tomatoes for diabetes are also found in tomato seeds, which can be obtained by consuming tomatoes or tomato juice.

Benefits of Tomatoes for Bodybuilding

In addition to its high vitamin C content, tomatoes contain ursolic acid and tomatine, which help in strengthening and maintaining muscles. These two compounds stimulate the growth and strength of muscle cells and prevent their degeneration and weakening, making tomatoes an essential part of the diet for bodybuilders. Vitamin C also helps relieve fatigue and removes toxins from the muscles caused by physical activity.

Benefits of Tomatoes for Blood Pressure
According to research conducted in different countries on the benefits of tomatoes for blood pressure, especially tomato juice, over a period of one year, it was found that consuming at least one cup of unsalted tomato juice daily can help lower blood pressure and reduce bad cholesterol levels, thus effectively reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases.

Benefits of Tomatoes for Skin

One of the most well-known benefits of tomatoes is their effect on the skin. Tomatoes, in addition to containing various vitamins and other nutrients, have a high content of vitamin C. Vitamin C is effective in eliminating free radicals in the skin, enhancing resistance, reducing wrinkles, tightening open pores, and brightening the skin. If you notice open pores or dark spots on your skin, applying a few slices of tomato as a mask or rubbing its juice on your skin can help you benefit from its properties. The vitamin C, vitamin A, and lycopene in tomatoes are also effective in treating acne and youthful blemishes.

Due to its high vitamin C content and various antioxidants, tomatoes are widely used in many beauty and strengthening face masks.

Vitamin C in tomatoes is very effective in collagen production, reducing wrinkles, and thickening and shining the hair, as well as strengthening the nails.

Benefits of Tomatoes for the Heart

Tomatoes contain a large amount of an antioxidant called lycopene. Lycopene in tomatoes acts more powerfully against free radicals than vitamin E. When tomatoes are consumed as a puree with olive oil, the amount of this antioxidant significantly increases. Studies conducted by scientists at Cambridge University on the effects of lycopene on heart patients showed that lycopene can improve the function of blood vessels and circulation by affecting the endothelium, which is the inner lining of the blood vessel walls, significantly reducing cardiovascular risks.

Risks of Excessive Tomato Consumption

Like all foods, excessive consumption of tomatoes also has unpleasant side effects. For example, tomatoes contain high levels of beta-blockers, which are therapeutic compounds prescribed for heart problems. If you consume too many tomatoes, the level of these beta-blockers in your body will increase, causing a severe increase in potassium levels, which can lead to kidney problems. For those with acid reflux, excessive tomato consumption can also cause heartburn and vomiting.

Benefits of Tomatoes for Weight Loss

Despite containing many antioxidants and vitamins, tomatoes are low in calories, carbohydrates, and sugars, making them suitable for various weight loss diets, regulating blood pressure, and reducing body fat. In the Mediterranean diet, which is considered the best diet for preventing cardiovascular diseases and obesity, tomatoes play a significant role.

However, only including large amounts of tomatoes in your diet will not help you achieve your ideal weight; you must also change your lifestyle regarding food choices and increase physical activity.