5 reasons why tomatoes should be your favourite fruit this year

Nothing can be a better balm for the soul than a bowl of steaming tomato soup on a wintry evening.
Tomato is a regular feature in the Indian kitchen. From appetizers (tomato soup anyone?) to dessert (desis with sweet tooth still swear by tomato chutney as one of the most satisfying ways to end a meal) the crimson fruit’s presence can be felt in pretty much every Indian dish. It adds color and tang to the dishes. Whether its sauteed, pureed, or eaten raw, tomatoes never fail to be delicious.

Apart from making dishes savoury, this fiery little fruit can also help keep several health problems at bay. Here’s how :

Gorge On Tomatoes For A Healthy Heart
Tomato comes packed with antioxidants like lycopene (this plant compound gives the food its red colour). Recent researches show that lycopene may help in protecting the heart from cardiac arrests. Tomato also has beta carotene which is thought to be beneficial for those battling heart health.

Lower The Risk Of Cancer
Cancer is the uncontrolled growth of malefic cells that spread to other parts of the body. Some studies have found that lycopene can help reduce incidences of lung and stomach cancers. A high dose of beta-carotene might also help prevent breast cancer.

Can Reduce Constipation
Tomato has an adequate fluid and fibre components. A single tomato contains four ounces of fluid and a half grams of fiber. So regular intake of tomatoes can improve bowel movements.

May Help Prevent Diabetes
Tomato is a powerhouse of nutrients. The antioxidant properties of lycopene may help in containing type 2 diabetes. This is due to its ability to protect cells from damage, reduce inflammation, and boost the body's defense mechanisms.

Improves Immunity
Tomato has an abundance of Vitamin C and beta-carotene can help make your immune system more active. A 2022 study conducted by the National Cancer Institute found that regular consumption of tomatoes can help make certain virus-resistant cells more active.