The Antioxidant Power of Tomatoes

Understanding Antioxidants

Antioxidants are compounds which act against oxidation; this is a kind of conversion that makes creation of radicals possible. These free radicals are capable of inflicting more damages to the cells and tissues of the human body that results to inflammation, ageing, and ailments such as cancer and heart diseases. Contrary to oxidants, antioxidants work to abolish free radicals and so it is implying that they do not cause little oxidation and the related troubles.

Tomatoes contain a variety of antioxidants

Key Antioxidants in Tomatoes

Tomatoes contain a variety of antioxidants, each contributing to their health benefits. Among the antioxidants present in tomatoes, the following are known and have indeed been identified since the discovery of the antioxidant substances in tomatoes:

1.   Lycopene: This carotene is chiefly found in tomatoes with a chief antioxidant, lycopene that gives the vegetable its red coloring. It is an antioxidant and according to research it has been discovered to help lower the chances of specific kinds of cancer for instance prostate cancer. Lycopene also assists in the change in the cholesterol status and has anti-inflammatory property to the heart.

2.   Vitamin C: This is vitamin soluble in water and which performs the function of an antioxidant and protection against cellular effects of radicals. In addition, it aids in enhancing the immunization of the body, enhancing hardness from plant product and synthesis of collagen thus enhancing skins health.

3.   Vitamin A (in the form of beta-carotene): Besides lycopene, another antioxidant present in tomatoes, and responsible for their bright red color, is beta carotene. This in the body gets converted into vitamin A which aid in vision, include in the immune systems and supports skin health.

4.   Vitamin E: Different from water soluble vitamins, it dissolves in fats; helps in the maintenance of the structure of the cells’ membrane through reduction of oxidation and it strengthens the immune system. It contains functions that are linked to skin condition and might provide a degree of safeguard from ultra-vinyl rays.

5.   Flavonoids: These are class of polyphenolic compounds with antioxidant activity attributed to occur in the skin of tomatoes. Several researches have shown that spices reduce inflammation; they are also protective against heart diseases and several types of cancer.

How to increase the content of Antioxidants in Tomatoes

To fully benefit from the antioxidants in tomatoes, consider these tips:

• Cooked vs. Raw: Some working that lycopene’s level becomes more uxorious once tomatoes are cooked particularly when prepared with other foods that are rich in e.g. olive oil. The beneficial antioxidant activity of raw tomatoes is still remained almost true, but cooked tomatoes could be turned to be more beneficial.
• Variety: Thus, it is evident that although cherry tomatoes, grape tomatoes and heirloom tomatoes and other similar tomatoes have varying quantities of antioxidant. However, due to the fact that the presented tomatoes are the relatively different types and fresh, their regular consumption might be useful from the point of view of raising the intake of these compounds.
• Combining with Other Foods: This imply that when tomatoes are used together with other foods that are rich in nutrients such as the leafy greens, nuts and seeds; then the odds for high antioxidant capacity will increase.