The Five Benefits Of Eating Tomatoes That May Surprise You

 1. Looking to boost heart health? Tomatoes can help improve cardiovascular strength

Tomatoes are rich in lycopene, a carotenoid which gives tomatoes their distinctive red colouring. Some studies have been carried out which seem to show lycopene has the ability to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease and help with general heart health. Tomatoes are also a good source of potassium, which some studies have found can also help lower the risk of heart disease in patients.

Top tip: The redder the tomato, the more lycopene it contains, so remember this the next time you’re looking for the perfect heirloom during your grocery shop.

2. For skin protection, add tomatoes to your skincare routine

Lycopene is also an antioxidant and can help protect the skin from sun damage. Several studies have concluded that the skin is less susceptible to sunburn and UV damage to the skin. (Though definitely still whack on the sunscreen every day, and find our favourite cruelty-free SPFs here if you need a little guidance!)

3. Forget carrots — tomatoes are here for your eye health too

Tomatoes are rich in a number of phytochemicals, carotenoids such as the aforementioned lycopene, and others such as beta carotene and lupin. This helps us maintain good eye health, especially as the body ages, according to some studies. 

4. Tomatoes can even help prevent cancer

Yes, tomatoes can really help prevent cancerous cells from spreading. Quite a few studies have observed the links between frequent consumption of tomatoes and tomato-based products, and lower rates of cancers, particularly stomach, lung and breast cancer. 

5. And they may also help reduce symptoms of menopause

A small study was carried out and found that tomato juice when drank daily, helped to reduce menopausal symptoms such as anxiety and significantly lowering high baseline serum triglycerides levels in middle-aged women.