The unique properties of tomatoes are largely due to the fact that they are a source of lycopene,” says Natalia Kruglova, a renowned nutritionist.
Tomatoes are not only a salad decoration but also a source of healthy substances. This was stated by nutritionist Natalia Kruglova.
“Tomatoes contain lycopene, a strong and important antioxidant for humans. It protects the body from the effects of free radicals that can cause diseases of the cardiovascular system, as well as cancer. Thanks to the lycopene, immune defense cells are activated. Tomatoes also contain vitamin C, dietary fiber, and beta-carotene, which is a provitamin A, and is important for good skin, hair, nails, and vision,” she said.
The unique properties of this vegetable are largely due to the fact that it is a source of lycopene, an antioxidant that has immunostimulating and antitumor effects, Kruglova said.
“If we talk about ketchup or tomato paste, the benefits in terms of lycopene content are still there. In tomato paste, its content will be even higher: it is a concentrated product, with much less liquid than a fresh tomato. In terms of vitamin C content, fresh tomatoes are better, because vitamin C is destroyed during heat treatment. You need to control the salt content in ketchup, so it’s better to use the paste as a base and add spices and salt to taste,” she advised.