Tomato

About tomatoes

The tomato (Solanum lycopersicum, synonym: Lycopersicon esculentum) is one of the most popular vegetables. They are easy to grow, cheap and healthy. Moreover, they can be used and processed in many different ways. They can be used in soups, sauces, salads and are delicious on bread. The tomato comes from the same family as chili peppers, potatoes, squash and tobacco. This family is called the nightshade family (Solanaceae).

Vegetable or fruit?

Botanically speaking, the tomato is actually a berry and is classified as a fruit. Most people call it a vegetable though, just as they do in horticulture.

History

The tomato has its origin in South America. Still, the tomato grows there in the wild. The Mayans and the Aztecs later, were the first people who cultivated the tomato. The Aztecs were the first to combine tomatoes with chili peppers and thus created the forerunner of salsas. How the Mayans and Aztecs in Central America gained access to the tomato is still a mystery, but probably birds ensured the spreading from South to Central America.

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Everything you need to know about tomatoes

A tomato is a nutrient-dense superfood that offers benefit to a range of bodily systems. Its nutritional content supports healthful skin, weight loss, and heart health.

Despite the popularity of tomatoes, it was only 200 years ago that they were thought to be poisonous in the United States (U.S.) This is likely to be because the plant belongs to the toxic nightshade family.

Tomatoes are now the fourth most popular fresh-market vegetable behind potatoes, lettuce, and onions. This article will examine their powerful health benefits, nutritional content, ways to include more tomatoes in the diet, and the risks of tomato consumption.

Fast facts on tomatoes

 

  • Including tomatoes in the diet can help protect against cancer, maintain healthy blood pressure, and reduce blood glucose in people with diabetes.
  • Tomatoes contain key carotenoids such as lutein and lycopene. These can protect the eye against light-induced damage.
  • Eat more tomatoes by adding them to wraps or sandwiches, sauces, or salsas. Alternatively, eat them cooked or stewed, as these preparation methods can boost the availability of key nutrients.
  • Tomatoes are in the top ten fruits and vegetables for containing levels of pesticide residue. Wash tomatoes before eating.

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