6 surprising health benefits of tomatoes

Tomatoes are often taken for granted as vegetables, without thinking about how they actually benefit.

August is the season for fragrant and delicious tomato. But few people remember why it is worth focusing on them and how they are useful.

1. Tomatoes Protect Heart Health

Tomatoes contain a lot of the antioxidant lycopene, which controls blood pressure, lowers the level of "bad" cholesterol, and prevents atherosclerosis.

2. Tomatoes help prevent cancer

The same antioxidant lycopene (there is even more of it in tomato paste than in fresh tomatoes) reduces the risk of prostate cancer in men by about 20%.

Also, tomato sauce is considered a good prevention of ovarian, stomach and pancreatic cancer.

3. Tomatoes fight the effects of diabetes

Tomatoes reduce inflammation, help fight atherosclerosis and tissue damage that occurs during diabetes.

Alas, tomatoes do not work with the speed and effectiveness of pills, but their regular use helps to establish a serious body defense.

4. Tomatoes improve intestinal peristalsis

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Tomatoes are high in fiber - about 1.5 g per vegetable. Regular consumption of them in sufficient quantity helps the intestines to work "like a clock".

Also, thanks to the fiber, tomatoes provide satiety that you cannot get from sugary carbohydrate foods.

5. Tomatoes protect from the sun

As strange as it sounds. Tomatoes protect the skin from UV damage and reduce the risk of sunburn. You do not need to smear the skin with them - only use it internally.

And, of course, regular consumption of tomatoes does not eliminate the need to apply sunscreen.

6. Tomatoes help maintain vision

Lycopene reduces the risk of developing cataracts, and also reduces the effects of age-related visual impairment.

For the best help for your eyes, complement tomatoes in your menu with eggs and green leafy vegetables.