Tomato Contributes to a Long Healthy Life

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​Juicy into just one bite, tomatoes are evidently rich in color, but many forget the benefits of tomatoes. They are an excellent antioxidant, and while needless to say (I’ll say it anyway), they are versatile. Enjoyed fresh in salads or a richly made dressing, in sauces, and even juices, this fruit falls into the trendy language, superfood, and with reason. 

An important lesson we've learned as a people is that the immune system plays a crucial role in fighting diseases and recovering from colds faster and easier. Many of us recognized its significance before the pandemic, but during the COVID-19 era—and what seems to be a prolonged period of its impact—we have come to understand this even more profoundly.

A key antioxidant found in tomatoes is lycopene. This powerful compound, also present in fruits like watermelon, guava, pink grapefruit, and papaya, helps combat free radicals that can damage your skin and immune system. For this reason, foods rich in lycopene, such as tomatoes, are known to help against diseases affecting the cervix, mouth, colon, pancreas, heart, and even breast. Additionally, lycopene aids in lowering blood pressure and bad cholesterol. Dare I label lycopene a super antioxidant? I think we all can. 

The benefits of tomatoes are noteworthy. They are recognized as a great source of potassium, as well as vitamins C, K, and B. Furthermore, this fruit exhibits a high water content, is low in calories, is rich in fiber, and enhances metabolism. Talk about an overachiever. Put simply, the antioxidants found in tomatoes help reduce water retention, which aids weight management. 

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I can go on and on about tomatoes, which many still argue are a vegetable. However, research supports its classification as a fruit. And you thought you didn't like fruits in your salad. Whatever the truth behind this fruit-able (a hybrid between fruit and vegetable. Oh dear, let's wrap this up -lol.), it is evident that tomatoes are vital components of a balanced diet, provided you are not allergic. They are cost-effective, and if you have the space, they are relatively simple to cultivate and maintain. 

In summary, tomatoes are a valuable nutritional source, enriched with antioxidants and vitamins, which contribute positively to overall health and longevity. 

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by Jessica Gonzalez Ferrer