Tomatoes are found all over the world in different shapes, sizes, colors and flavors. They may grow on bushes or have a vine growth. They come in five different categories:
- Beefsteak tomatoes
- Plum tomatoes
- Cherry tomatoes
- Grape tomatoes
- Campari tomatoes
Plum tomatoes are also known as “processing “ or “paste” tomatoes.
Beefsteak tomatoes are the largest of all varieties- even going upto half kg per piece
Cherry tomatoes are small, juicy, sweet and have thin skins. They come in red, yellow and orange colours. It is easier to hollow and stuff them.
Grape tomatoes are smaller and have thicker skin. They are more popular as they are easier to transport and last longer.
Campari tomatoes are also called “ tomatoes on the vine” and are deep red in colour. They are larger than cherry tomatoes.
Tomatoes are commercially produced all over the world. They enhance the taste of any dish to which they are added besides being highly nutritious. They contain Vitamins C, A and K. Also ,molybdenum, potassium, manganese, dietary fibre, chromium, Vitamin B1, B2, B5, B6 and E, folate, copper, magnesium, iron, phosphorus, tryptophan and protein. Tomatoes have lycopene which is a known anti-oxidant.
CARDIO-VASCULAR HEALTH: It has been found, following extensive research, that including tomatoes in a diet on a regular basis in any form reduced the risk of cardio-vascular disease by more than 30%. Tomato extracts have been found to lower activation of platelets which in turn prevents blood clots, heart attacks and strokes in the consumer.
CANCER: A study was conducted on people with family history of cancer. The types of cancers covered in the colorectal, prostrate and pancreatic. It was found that the lycopene provided by the tomatoes were most effective in reducing the risk of these cancers occurring in the body even when the tomatoes were introduced in their diet as a placebo.
Tomatoes have lots of health benefits– some known and some unknown. They should definitely be included in all the meals in whatever form one likes as raw powder or sauce if only to enhance the taste of the meal
written by Avni Kaul – Nutritionist and Wellness Coach
