BlogchatterA2Z2023 challenge

 Tomatoes are terrific!

Tomatoes (solanum lycopersicum) is a fruit from the nightshade family native to South America. Botanically the tomato is a fruit because it fits the botanical description of a fruit. It is the fleshy part of the plant that surrounds its seeds. However, for nutritional and culinary purposes, the tomato is a vegetable. 

(Nightshade is a family of plants that include tomatoes, peppers, potatoes and eggplant and tobacco) Nightshades contain small amounts of alkaloids. Alkaloids are chemicals found in plants. While some alkaloids will have a positive effect on the human body, others, like the ones present in tobacco will have a negative effect,)

• Tomatoes generally turn red when they mature they are also available in a variety of colours including yellow orange, green and purple. 
• Tomatoes are 95%  water and 5% carbohydrates and fibre. 
• Tomatoes are often harvested when green and immature and ripened artificially. This may adversely affect the flavour and taste.
• Tomatoes are heavily laden with the carotenoid Lycopene. Lycopene gives tomatoes its red colour and has many health benefits.  
• Studies show that the content of lycopene increases when tomatoes are cooked. 
• Tomatoes can be grown hydroponically in a water-based nutrient solution, rather than soil. 

Why tomatoes are good for You: 

• The antioxidant Lycopene can protect against diseases like Alzheimer's
• A tomato-rich diet reduces the risk of heart disease. 
• The water content and dietary fibres found in tomato aid healthy bowel movement and support hydration. 
• Some studies show that the antioxidant properties of Lycopene contribute to the prevention of type 2 diabetes. 
• Lycopene and beta-carotene have been shown to possess anti-cancer properties
• The vitamin C in beta carotene in tomato juice supports immunity. 

On Your Plate:

• In your sandwich
  
• Tossed into a salad
• A tangy chutney or pickle
• Eaten raw as a snack
• tomato ketchup 
• The base of a gravy   
• Spicy hot tomato rasam(my favourite)                 
  
  
  
  
  
  
  

Steer clear of tomatoes if they cause you problems or consult with your health care provider. 

This post is part of the blogchatterA2Z 2023 challenge.