Know thy food: Health facts about Tomatoes

omatoes are one of the most popular and versatile fruits that we use in our daily lives. From adding flavour to our salads, sandwiches, pasta dishes, and sauces to being a staple ingredient in some cuisines all around the world. But what do you know about this juicy fruit? Prepare to have your mind blown with these amazing facts about tomatoes that will make you appreciate them even more!

History of Tomatoes

The tomato is a fruit that is native to South America. The first recorded use of the word "tomato" was in 1595. Tomatoes were introduced to Europe in the 16th century by Spanish explorers. Tomatoes were introduced to North America by Swedish settlers in the 17th century.

Tomatoes were used as food by Native Americans and were also used for medicine. The Aztecs believed that tomatoes had mystical powers and used them in religious ceremonies.

The first European to taste a tomato was Hernan Cortes, who conquered Mexico in 1521. He described the tomato as "a fruit that is good for nothing except to be eaten raw with pepper."

At first, tomatoes were not widely accepted in Europe because many people thought they were poisonous. This was because tomatoes belong to the same family as nightshade plants, which are indeed poisonous. It wasn't until the late 18th century that tomatoes became widely accepted as a food item in Europe.

By the 19th century, however, tomatoes were being grown all over the world. They became an essential part of Italian cuisine and are now used in dishes from all over the world.

Nutritional Value of Tomatoes

Tomatoes provide a wide range of vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin C, Vitamin K, Potassium, and Folate. They are also a good source of fiber and lycopene, an antioxidant that has been shown to have numerous health benefits.

Health Benefits of Tomatoes

Tomatoes are not only delicious but also nutritious. They are a good source of vitamins A and C, potassium, folic acid, and fiber. Here are some more health benefits of tomatoes:

·         Vitamins: Tomatoes are rich in vitamin C, which is essential for a healthy immune system and helps to absorb iron. They also contain vitamin A, which is important for vision and skin health. The vitamin A in tomatoes can help reduce the risk of developing cataracts.

·         Minerals: Tomatoes are a good potassium source, which supports cardiovascular health and regulates blood pressure. They also contain small amounts of other minerals, such as calcium and iron.

·         Antioxidants: Tomatoes are rich in antioxidants such as lycopene, beta-carotene, and vitamin C. These antioxidants help to protect cells from damage caused by free radicals and may reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as cancer and heart disease.

·         Tomatoes can lower the risk of prostate cancer in men. Several studies have found that men who consume higher amounts of lycopene in their diets or have higher levels of lycopene in their blood have a lower risk of developing prostate cancer. For example, a large prospective study published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute showed that men who had the highest levels of lycopene in their blood had a 28% lower risk of developing prostate cancer compared to men with the lowest levels.

·         Fiber: Tomatoes provide a good source of fiber, which helps maintain digestive function and promoting feelings of fullness, making it a good weight loss fruit.

·         Water content: Tomatoes are about 94% water, making them a hydrating food choice.

Tomato Recipes

There are many delicious recipes that can be made with tomatoes. Here are a few of our favorites:

·         Tomato and Basil Pizza - This classic pizza is made even better with the addition of fresh tomatoes and basil. Wish to know how to bake your own pizza at home? We are just a phone call away. We offer physical training within Eldoret and virtual training away from Eldoret.

·         Tomato Soup - This comforting soup is perfect for a cool day or when you're feeling under the weather.

·         Roasted Tomatoes - Roasting tomatoes brings out their natural sweetness and makes them irresistible. Try them on their own or use them as a topping for chicken or fish.

·         Tomato Sauce - Make your own tomato sauce to use in pastas, pizzas, and more. It's so much tastier than anything you'll find in a jar!

Conclusion

Tomatoes are a truly remarkable fruit, from their incredible health benefits to the variety of ways they can be used in cooking. Not only do they taste great, but they are also incredibly good for us. The bioavailability of lycopene is increased by cooking. We hope that these interesting facts have piqued your interest in tomatoes and inspired you to make them a regular part of your diet. Whether it's as a simple side dish or as the main ingredient in one of your favorite dishes, there is no denying that tomatoes should be given their rightful place on our plates!