Benefits of eating tomatoes regularly 🍅🍅

Benefits of eating tomatoes regularly 🍅🍅

Red and juicy, tomatoes are one of those universal ingredients that seem to be present in every kitchen, in every culture. They can be the star of Italian sauces, an essential supporting ingredient in fresh salads, the succulent filling for sandwiches and the base of nutritious soups. Their presence is so constant in our daily lives that we often ignore the complexity of this fruit that holds stories of discovery, scientific disputes, controversies and, of course, diverse and unique flavors.

A Curious History: From America to the World

Tomatoes have deep roots in South America, especially in the regions that today comprise Peru and Ecuador. Before they were known and popularized by Europeans, they were already part of the diet of the indigenous peoples of Latin America. The word "tomato" comes from the Nahuatl language, from the word "tomatl", used by the Aztecs to describe the fruit.

When the Spanish arrived in the Americas in the 16th century, they brought tomatoes to Europe, where they were initially viewed with suspicion. In several European countries, tomatoes were believed to be poisonous, since they belong to the Solanaceae family, which includes some truly toxic plants. It was only in the 18th century, after more careful observations, that they began to be consumed and cultivated more regularly. Italy, which is today one of the greatest icons of tomato-based cuisine, adopted the fruit with enthusiasm and developed a multitude of recipes that are enjoyed all over the world.

A Functional Food: Vitamins and Antioxidants

Tomatoes are much more than just a source of flavor; they are a true “natural pharmacy”. Rich in lycopene, a powerful antioxidant responsible for their red color, the fruit is associated with benefits that range from protection against some types of cancer to promoting heart health. Several studies indicate that lycopene can help reduce the risk of prostate and breast cancer, in addition to contributing to controlling cholesterol levels.

In addition to lycopene, tomatoes contain vitamins A, C and K, as well as minerals such as potassium. Vitamin C, for example, is essential for the immune system and skin health. Vitamin A helps with vision and strengthens the immune system. For those looking for a balanced diet, tomatoes are a great option, especially because they are low in calories and contain fiber that aids digestion. 

Varieties and Flavors: A Universe of Colors and Shapes

There is an impressive diversity of tomato varieties, each with its own flavor, texture and appearance. Among the best known are the cherry tomato, small and sweet, ideal for salads; the Italian tomato, elongated and less acidic, perfect for sauces; the khaki tomato, large and juicy, great for slicing into sandwiches; and the green tomato, more acidic, which takes center stage in specific dishes.

Each variety has a unique flavor profile, and choosing the right tomato for each preparation is an art that many chefs take seriously. There are also those who explore color and appearance: we have the yellow tomato, which has less acidity and is ideal for milder preparations, and the purple tomato, which has even more antioxidants and is highly valued in haute cuisine.

Culinary Use: Infinite Versatility

Tomatoes are versatile in almost infinite ways. In Italian cuisine, tomatoes are essential for marinara sauce, which is used as a base for pizzas and pastas. In Brazil, tomatoes are the star of vinaigrettes, which are often used at barbecues, and also in salads that balance freshness and acidity. In Mexican dishes, tomatoes are used in salsas and spicy sauces, while in India, they are a key ingredient in curries and spicy dishes.

When cooked, tomatoes release even more lycopene, making them more nutritious in hot recipes, such as soups and sauces. When roasted, they acquire a sweet and intense flavor that contrasts deliciously with other ingredients. When eaten raw, they provide a refreshing sensation, ideal for hot days.

Botanical Controversy: Fruit or Vegetable?

The eternal question: is a tomato a fruit or a vegetable? Scientifically, tomatoes are fruits, as they develop from the ovary of a flower and contain seeds. However, it is often treated as a vegetable in cooking because of its salty rather than sweet flavor, unlike conventional fruits. In 1893, the United States Supreme Court had to decide this issue for tax reasons, and concluded that, for tax purposes, tomatoes should be considered a vegetable. This debate continues to this day, but whether tomatoes are considered a fruit or a vegetable, the most important thing is the impact of tomatoes on cuisines around the world.

Tips for Choosing and Storing

Choosing fresh, ripe tomatoes is essential to getting the most out of them. When selecting tomatoes, look for those that are firm, without cracks or dark spots. Ideally, they should have a uniform color and a fresh aroma.

To store tomatoes, they should be kept out of the refrigerator while they are still green, as cold stops the ripening process. Once ripe, they can be refrigerated, but they should be allowed to return to room temperature before eating, as cold can also alter their flavor and texture.

Sustainability: Production and Challenges

Large-scale tomato production can pose environmental challenges, such as intensive use of water and pesticides. Sustainable alternatives are being researched, such as greenhouse production and hydroponic cultivation techniques, which allow for significant resource savings and less environmental impact.

Organic farming is also an increasingly valued option, producing tomatoes with less environmental impact and without the use of synthetic pesticides. In addition, the practice of precision agriculture, which uses technology to monitor and optimize the use of resources, has revolutionized the way tomatoes are grown in a more sustainable way.

The Future of Tomatoes

Tomatoes seem to be just at the beginning of their journey. With the advancement of biotechnology, new varieties of tomatoes that are more resistant to pests, with higher nutrient content and more intense flavors are being developed. In addition, with the increase in interest in healthy eating, it is likely that we will see tomatoes as part of new products and preparations that further highlight their beneficial properties.

In a world where tomatoes can be grown on large farms, in home gardens, on the rooftops of urban buildings and even in space colonies, they represent not only a food, but also an example of human resilience and adaptation.