Tomatoes for Life!
By Donna Stark
Lucky us! There is a very special treat we all get to look forward to once June rolls around. A treat that is so sweet and juicy, we'll definitely want to make sure we don't miss it! But what makes this treat even better than how delicious it tastes, is that it is also extremely good for our health! So, whether yours comes from New Jersey, the local farmers market, or even your own backyard, you should definitely think about adding more to your diet. Wondering what it is? It's the tomato and it improves a lot more than just your sandwich.
The Health Benefits of Tomatoes
You may already know that tomatoes are good for you, but do you specifically know the reasons why you should add more to your diet? Let's take a quick look at some of the health benefits you can expect by consuming more tomatoes with your meals.
- Healthy skin - The beta-carotene that is found in tomatoes can help protect against sun damage, fine lines, and wrinkles
- Strong bones - The body uses Vitamin K and calcium to strengthen and repair bones, and both are found in tomatoes
- Cancer risk - Tomatoes contain antioxidants and lycopene which have both been shown to fight the free radicals that cause cell damages and reduce the risk of cancer
- Blood sugar - Tomatoes can help keep the body's blood sugar levels in balance
- Vision - The Vitamin A found in tomatoes can help improve vision and reduce the risk of serious eye conditions
- Hair - Just like it can help your vision, the Vitamin A found in your tomatoes can also make your hair strong, healthy, and shiny
- Chronic pain - With their anti-inflammatory agents, tomatoes can reduce inflammation which can help the fight against chronic pain
Adding More Tomatoes to Your Diet
Now that you know about all of the health benefits tomatoes can bring to your life, it's time to start eating more of them! Here are some wonderful suggestions on how to incorporate more tomatoes into your diet.
- Add sliced tomatoes to your sandwiches
- Chop tomatoes or toss some cherry tomatoes in your salad
- Make homemade spaghetti sauce, tomato soup, and salsa
- Drink tomato juice
- Add some chopped tomatoes into your vegetable omelet
- Choose tomatoes as a pizza topping
- Add extra chopped tomatoes into your favorite stew or vegetable soup
- Slice and eat raw with a sprinkling of salt and pepper
- Make a tomato and mayonnaise sandwich
Enjoying Tomatoes and Better Health
There is no easier and more delicious way to improve your overall health than to consume more tomatoes, and there is no better time than now! So start today and get eating! Summer tomatoes are simply the best!
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Eagan, Minn.