Benefits and harms of eating tomatoes

Tomato is a popular vegetable and fruit that is used in various cuisines all over the world. The scientific name of tomato is Solanum Lycopersicon. It originally originated in the Americas and is now cultivated in almost all countries.

Table of Contents: Benefits, disadvantages and cultivation methods of eating tomatoes!

1. Nutritional properties of tomatoes
2. Benefits of eating tomatoes
3. Disadvantages of eating tomatoes
4. Rules for growing tomatoes
5. Some popular dishes with tomatoes
6. Some local dishes made with tomatoes
7. Other benefits of tomatoes
8. Additional tips
9. Precautions and advice

Nutritional values ​​of tomatoes

Tomatoes are a very nutritious vegetable and fruit. They contain many important vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. The main nutritional values ​​of tomatoes are mentioned below:

1. Calories: Tomatoes are a low-calorie food. Every 100 grams of tomatoes contain about 18 calories.
2. Carbohydrates: Tomatoes contain about 3.9 grams of carbohydrates, of which about 2.6 grams of sugar and 1.2 grams of fiber.
3. Protein: Every 100 grams of tomatoes contain about 0.9 grams of protein.
4. Fat: Tomatoes are very low in fat, about 0.2 grams per 100 grams.
5. Vitamins:

            Vitamin C: Tomatoes contain a lot of vitamin C, which helps boost immunity.

            Vitamin K: Helps maintain bone health and blood clotting.

            Vitamin A: Helps with eye health and skin care.

            Folate (vitamin B9): Essential for cell growth and function.

6. Minerals:

            Potassium: Helps regulate blood pressure and reduce the risk of heart disease.

            Manganese: Important for bone formation and metabolic processes.

7. Antioxidants:

            Penelope: The main antioxidant in tomatoes that fights various diseases and helps reduce the                 risk of various types of cancer.

            Beta-carotene: Converts to vitamin A in the body and is important for vision.

Other benefits of tomatoes

1. Fiber: Improves digestion and helps reduce cholesterol.
2. Hydration: Tomatoes contain about 95% water, which helps keep the body hydrated.

These nutritional properties have made tomatoes known as a highly nutritious and beneficial food. Eating tomatoes regularly is very beneficial for health.

Benefits of eating tomatoes

There are many benefits of eating tomatoes. It is a nutritious and healthy food that benefits the body in various ways. Below are some of the main benefits of eating tomatoes:

• Improves heart health: The Penelope and potassium present in tomatoes are helpful in maintaining heart health. It controls blood pressure and lowers cholesterol, which helps reduce the risk of heart disease.
• Reduces cancer risk: Penelope is a powerful antioxidant, which helps reduce the risk of various types of cancer, especially prostate cancer, lung cancer, and stomach cancer.
• Helps in skin care:The vitamin C and other antioxidants present in tomatoes brighten the skin and help maintain youthfulness. It accelerates the regeneration process of skin cells.
• Improves digestion:Tomatoes contain fiber, which improves digestion and helps relieve constipation.
• Improves eyesight:Tomatoes contain vitamin A, which protects eyesight and reduces the risk of night blindness and other eye problems.
• Helps in weight loss:Tomatoes are low in calories, and are rich in fiber, which helps in controlling appetite and aids in weight loss.
• Improves bone health:Tomatoes contain vitamin K and calcium, which protect bone health and increase bone strength.
• Boosts immunity:Vitamin C and other antioxidants increase the body's immunity and help fight various infections.
• Helps in controlling diabetes:The chromium present in tomatoes helps in controlling blood sugar levels, which is beneficial for diabetics.
• Reduces arthritis pain:The antioxidants and anti-inflammatory ingredients present in tomatoes help in reducing arthritis pain and inflammation.

Disadvantages of eating tomatoes

Tomatoes are a delicious and nutritious food that can be included in the daily diet. They provide various health benefits and help prevent various diseases. Although tomatoes are generally healthy and nutritious, for some people, there may be some side effects or disadvantages when consuming them. Below are the possible disadvantages of eating tomatoes:

• Acidity and Heartburn:Tomatoes contain high amounts of acid, which can increase acidity and heartburn (gastroesophageal reflux disease). People with acidity problems should eat less tomatoes.
• Allergies:Some people may be allergic to tomatoes. Eating them can cause skin rashes, itching, swelling of the face, and difficulty breathing. If such symptoms occur, you should stop eating tomatoes.
• Kidney problems:Tomatoes are high in oxalate, which can increase the risk of kidney stones. People who suffer from kidney stones should eat less tomatoes.
• Lectopenodermia:Consuming too much tomatoes can cause the skin to turn yellow or orange due to an antioxidant called lycopene. Although this is usually not harmful, it can be uncomfortable.
• Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS):The acid and fiber in tomatoes can cause problems for people with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), such as stomach pain, gas, and diarrhea.
• Gout:Tomatoes contain purines, which can be harmful for people with gout. This can increase uric acid levels and increase gout pain.
• Bleeding Risk:Tomatoes contain vitamin K, which helps blood clot. But for those who need to take blood thinners (anticoagulants), this can cause problems. In such cases, you should consult a doctor before eating tomatoes.
• Reaction to citric acid:The citric acid in tomatoes can cause negative reactions in some people. It can cause sores in the mouth or stomach discomfort.

Tomato cultivation rules

Growing tomatoes can be a relatively easy and profitable task, if the right methods and care are taken. Below are the steps of growing tomatoes in detail:

• Choosing the right variety:

Choose the right variety of tomato according to the climate and soil type of your region. Some popular varieties are: Roma, Cherry, Big Boy, Brandy Wine, etc.

• Sowing:

Tomato seeds are usually sown in February to March.

You can sow the seeds in seedbeds or small trays. The soil of the seedbed should be prepared well and the seeds should be lightly covered with soil after sowing.

• Germination:

It takes 7-14 days for seedlings to grow from seeds.

After germination, when each seedling grows to 4-5 leaves, it can be planted in the main land.

• Land preparation:

The main land should be well cultivated and kept weed-free.

Organic fertilizers or compost can be used to increase soil fertility.

The pH level of the soil for tomato cultivation should be 6.0 to 6.8.

• Planting:

When planting seedlings in the main field, plant two seedlings at a distance of 24-36 inches from each other.

The distance between rows should be kept at 3-4 feet.

• Irrigation:

Tomato plants should be watered regularly, but care should be taken to ensure that excess     water does not accumulate.

Water the base of the plant, not the leaves.

• Fertilization:

Regular fertilizer application is essential for the growth of tomato plants.

You can apply liquid fertilizer or organic fertilizer to the plant every 15 days.

• Weed control:Weeds around the tomato plant should be cleaned regularly so that the growth of the plant is not hindered.
• Disease and insect control:

Tomato plants can be attacked by various diseases and insects, such as botrytis, fusarium wilt aphids, whiteflies, etc.

Regular inspections should be made and necessary measures should be taken.

Neem oil or other organic pesticides can be used to control diseases and insects in an organic way.

• Support:Tomato plants need support or staking to support their growth and support the weight of the fruit. Tie the plants with bamboo or wooden poles.
• Harvesting the fruit:Tomatoes are usually ready to harvest within 70-100 days. Harvest when the fruit is fully ripe.

Additional tips

You can provide partial shade to tomato plants in the intense summer sun.

Increase soil aeration by regularly loosening the soil.

Keep the lower leaves and weeds of tomato plants clean.

If you follow these rules, it is possible to achieve success in tomato cultivation. Regular care and following the right methods are very important for a good crop.

Some popular dishes with tomatoes

Tomatoes can be used to make a variety of delicious dishes. They are used in various types of cooking, such as salads, sauces, soups, curries, and many more. Below is a list and brief description of some popular dishes made with tomatoes:

• Tomato Salad:

A salad made from fresh tomatoes, onions, cucumbers, and other vegetables. It is seasoned with lemon juice, salt, and olive oil.

• Tomato Sauce:

Tomatoes can be used to make a variety of sauces, such as pasta sauce, pizza sauce, and barbecue sauce. Tomato sauce is usually made with tomatoes, garlic, onions, and spices.

• Tomato Soup:

Tomato soup is a popular and nutritious dish. It is usually made with tomatoes, garlic, onions, and various spices. Sometimes cream is added to it.

• Tomato Curry:

Tomatoes can be used to cook curries with chicken, fish, or vegetables. Tomato curry is usually made with tomatoes, onions, garlic, ginger, and spices.

• Bruschetta:

It is an Italian dish that is served on toasted bread with tomatoes, garlic, olive oil, and basil leaves.

• Vegetable Tomato Stew:

Tomato stew can be cooked with various vegetables such as eggplant, potatoes, carrots, and beans.

• Tomato Chutney:

A sweet and sour chutney can be made with tomatoes, onions, garlic, ginger, and spices. It can be served as a snack or with a main course.

• Shakshuka:

This is a Middle Eastern dish where eggs are fried in tomato sauce. It is usually eaten as breakfast.

• Roasted Tomatoes:

Tomatoes are lightly coated with olive oil, salt, and pepper and roasted in the oven. It can be served as a side dish.

• Tomato Fries:

Tomatoes are chopped and fried in oil, seasoned with salt, turmeric, chili, and other spices.

Some local dishes made with tomatoes

• Tomato Bharta:

Tomatoes are roasted or boiled, chopped and fried in oil. Then, onion, garlic, green chilies, and coriander leaves are mixed to make the batter.

• Tomato Chachari:

Tomatoes, eggplant, potatoes, and other vegetables are mixed and fried in oil. Onions, garlic, and various spices are added to it.

• Tomato Dal:

Tomatoes are chopped and cooked in dal. Onions, garlic, ginger, and spices are added to it.

• Tomato Fish Broth:

Tomatoes are used in fish broth. It is cooked with fish, tomatoes, onions, garlic, ginger, and spices.

These foods cooked with tomatoes are nutritious and delicious, which can be included in the daily diet.

Precautions and Tips

Although tomatoes contain many healthy ingredients, one should be careful about personal physical condition while eating them. Those who have the above problems can consult a doctor before eating tomatoes. Eating tomatoes regularly and in moderation is generally safe and beneficial.