Tomatoes contain a natural antioxidant called lycopene (lycopene). This substance can help combat the effects of cancer-causing free radicals. Other antioxidants found in tomatoes are polyphenols, naringenin, and chlorogenic acid. In addition, tomatoes are low in calories and fat, but rich in carotenoids, lutein, sugar, vitamin A, vitamin C, folate, and potassium. No wonder the benefits of tomatoes are also abundant.

Here are some of the benefits of tomatoes that are believed to be able to prevent and even relieve the symptoms of certain diseases, including:

Because they contain antioxidants such as lycopene, carotenoids, and polyphenols, tomatoes can help prevent DNA damage in cells from free radicals that can cause cancer. Therefore, the benefits of tomatoes are thought to play a role in preventing various dangerous cancers, such as prostate cancer, colorectal cancer, stomach, mouth, lung, breast, and bladder. However, this assumption still requires further evidence and research because the various studies conducted so far still show inconsistent data.

Another benefit of tomatoes comes from their potassium content. Increasing potassium intake and reducing sodium (salt) is very important for lowering blood pressure. Research shows that eating tomatoes and reducing salt intake in the daily diet can reduce blood pressure in people with mild high blood pressure.

A number of studies show that the benefits of tomatoes are closely related to heart health and lower risk factors for heart disease. The content of potassium and lycopene is effective in lowering bad cholesterol or LDL and helps maintain a stable heart rhythm. Nutrients in tomatoes have also been shown to reduce inflammation associated with the risk of heart disease, heart attack, and stroke, especially in people with obesity.

According to one study, lycopene is thought to increase the skin's ability to protect itself from harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays and help keep skin looking youthful. In addition, the vitamin C content in tomatoes also functions as a collagen stimulant and antioxidant that helps prevent skin, hair and nail damage by sunlight, pollution and smoke. Tomatoes also help in preventing fine wrinkles and improving overall skin texture.

Tomatoes contain a variety of essential nutrients to protect eye health. The benefits of tomatoes that contain antioxidants lutein, zeaxanthin, and carotenoids can help reduce symptoms of tired eyes, and reduce the risk of aging-related eye diseases, such as macular degeneration.

Tomatoes are a good source of fiber for the body, and low in fat and sugar. Because the benefits of tomatoes from their abundant nutritional content and are foods with a low glycemic index, it is not wrong if tomatoes are considered a good food for diabetics.

The benefits of tomatoes from their nutritional content are also thought to play a role in reducing the risk of depression. Research shows that older adults who eat tomatoes every week are less likely to experience depression. However, this tomato effect still needs to be studied further.

Eating foods with high water and fiber content, such as tomatoes, can help improve bowel movements, reduce the risk of constipation, and prevent dehydration.

Tomatoes are low in calories, carbohydrates and fat, but rich in other nutrients, have benefits in maintaining weight. The benefits of this one tomato are important for those of you who are losing weight, because the various nutritional content in tomatoes can meet nutritional needs when dieting.

The various benefits of tomatoes still require further research and evidence. However, don't hesitate to add tomatoes to your daily diet, because tomatoes contain many important nutrients.