11 Tomato Health Benefits And Why You Should Eat the Daily

Scientifically, a tomato is considered a fruit, but it has numerous “vegetable-like” health benefits that can’t be ignored. Tomatoes contain a variety of vitamins and minerals that are useful to the body in countless ways.

The tomato plant belongs to the organic kingdom of Plantae and the class of Angiosperms.

man enjoying tomato health benefits with his saladPin

In Angiosperms, the plant falls under the Eudicots under the subcategory Asterids. In that group, it is in the order of Solanales, or nightshades, under the Solanaceae family. Other vegetables in the family of nightshades include chili pepper, potato, and eggplant.

About three of the 13 of these species including Solanum Cheesmaniae, Solanum Galpagense, and Solanum pimpinellifolium are domestic tomatoes.


The others are crossed with the domestic tomatoes to bring in richer properties including the red pigmentation. The wild variety has small-sized tomatoes and they are just as rich in the stipulated nutritional components.

The Nutritional Content In Tomatoes

Tomatoes are rich in vitamins and have a high content of vitamin A, C, and K. In addition, they are a source of Vitamin B6, Thiamin, and Folate.

There are also reliable deposits of potassium, magnesium, phosphorus, manganese, and copper in tomatoes. The tomato’s red pigment consists of lycopene, which has several health benefits linked to it.

Heirloom tomatoes are naturally richly flavored. These popular tomatoes are grown widely across the world. The cherry tomatoes are small and are commonly found in the Mediterranean regions where they are used for the preparation of Italian cuisine.

Tomatoes are low in calories, with about 18 calories per 100g serving. The fat content is very low. Tomatoes contain antioxidants and are an excellent source of dietary fiber, making them reliable components for controlling weight and cholesterol levels in the body.

Numerous Tomato Health Benefits

#1 – Good Source Of Vitamins And Minerals

One tomato provides over 40% of essential vitamin C, a naturally powerful antioxidant useful in controlling carcinogenic activities in the body. Vitamin A is necessary for the boosting of the body’s immune system.

Iron is essential in the formation of strong red blood cells used in the transportation of oxygen to the various parts of the body and the removal of CO2 from the various parts of the body. [source]

#2 – Reduction Of Cholesterol Levels In The Body

Tomatoes are a good source of lycopene, which is a very useful component in the body. Lycopene limits the oxidation of the serum lipid that forms around the cardiovascular system. Including tomatoes in your diet will lower the levels of LDL cholesterol and triglycerides, assisting with the prevention of high blood pressure and heart disease. [source]

#3 – May Help With Blood Clotting

The presence of Vitamin K helps in the ability of the blood to clot in case there is an injury in the body. Moreover, it is essential in strengthening the bones, hence preventing osteoporosis. In addition, it helps in balancing the intake of the essential nutrients into the body. [source]

#4 – Reduces The Risk Of Bleeding In The Liver

Vitamin K and the minerals present in tomatoes may help in lowering the risks of bleeding in the liver. [source]



#5 – Blood Sugar Regulation

Vitamins K and C are useful in regulating body sugar levels. This is important in controlling diabetes. [source]

#6 – Eliminating Nausea And Vomiting In Pregnant Women

Pregnant mothers are advised to eat a lot of tomatoes to help them get over the feeling of nausea. This may increase their appetite and help them recover from the symptoms of morning sickness. [source]

tomatoes on top of cooked asparagusPin

#7 – Boosts The Immune System

The presence of Vitamin C is a key component in boosting the immune system. [source]

#8 – Helps Improve the Digestive System

Tomatoes are useful in catalyzing food digestion, thereby promoting a healthy digestive system. [source]

#9 – May Help Prevent Age-Related Macular Degeneration

Tomatoes contain zeaxanthin, which is useful in the prevention of Age-Related Macular Degeneration. [source]

#10 – Vitamin C Content

The presence of Vitamin C makes tomatoes essential in providing antioxidants that eliminate free radicals from the body. [source]

#11 – Potassium Content

The potassium present in tomatoes is essential in ensuring that the heart rate is maintained, which promotes heart health by lowering the risk of cardiovascular disease. In conjunction with sodium, potassium assists in balancing blood sugar levels. [source]

How Do You Eat Tomatoes?

Tomatoes can be eaten raw or cooked. When cooking tomatoes, they should be merely blanched to preserve the vitamin and mineral components’ health benefits. Add them to salads, eggs, your favorite sauce, and more!

Make your own tomato paste and toss in some grilled bell pepper and olive oil for spaghetti sauce or sip on a glass of tomato juice. Be sure to include tomatoes in your daily diet regimen to ensure you experience the tasty and healthy benefits that tomatoes provide. Enjoy!