Tomatoes and their benefits.

source

Tomatoes are members of the Solanaceae family, along with potatoes, peppers and aubergines. Tomatoes come in different shapes and colors.

When choosing tomatoes, pay attention to the peel. It should be flat and smooth, have no wrinkles and cracks, as well as dents and dark spots. With a slight pressure on the tomatoes a small dent should be formed.

The tomatoes are eaten raw, stewed, baked and fried. They are added to salads, soups, which are used as an accompaniment for meat.

The beneficial properties of tomatoes increase after heat treatment. Tomatoes contain vitamins: C, A, K, B6 and B9; in addition to minerals such as potassium, manganese, copper, magnesium and phosphorus.

Potassium in tomatoes normalizes blood pressure and reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease. Folic acid in the composition of tomatoes prevents heart attacks and strokes.

The lycopene contained in the tomato strengthens the bones, maintaining its density, and potassium protects the muscles from damage. In addition, lycopene reduces the amount of "bad" cholesterol in the body, prevents blood clots and prevents stroke.

The regular consumption of tomatoes will help to slow the progression of neurological diseases, Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease.

Caratinoids, lycopene and vitamin A protect the eyes from damage of light, maintain visual acuity, prevent the development of cataracts and macular degeneration related to age.

Tomatoes restore lung function in former smokers and reduce age-related changes. The human lungs are formed by 20-25 years. After 35 years, its performance decreases and the habit of smoking accelerates this process. This is due to the fact that the muscles that regulate the opening of the respiratory tract weaken and lose elasticity.

The tomato reduces damage to the brain cells caused by alcohol, and also protects the liver from damage caused by alcohol. Enzymes in the liver absorb alcohol and are rapidly destroyed. Tomatoes accelerate the process of recovering enzymes and improve liver function.

With the help of tomatoes, you can get rid of constipation and diarrhea due to the fiber, which is rich in pulp.

Tomatoes prevent enlargement of the prostate and act on par with medications. In addition, they help reduce the risk of prostate cancer by 18%, due to calcium, selenium and lycopene. To do this, men need to eat at least 10 tomatoes per week.

Tomatoes are useful for women in the age of menopause. Tomato juice eliminates the irregular heartbeat and increases anxiety.

Tomatoes reduce the risk of developing skin cancer by 50%. This is possible thanks to the carotenoids, which protect the skin from sunburn.

Vitamin C in fruits normalizes the production of collagen, which is responsible for the elasticity of the skin, the strength of the nails and hair. Lack of vitamin C can cause wrinkles, sagging skin and age spots.

Tomatoes are rich in vitamins C and E, beneficial to the immune system. These substances increase the production of leukocytes. Tomatoes reduce the risk of cancer and fight against metastasis.

Acids in tomatoes improve metabolism. Tomatoes contain vitamins C and E, necessary for a quick recovery of the skin after losing weight.

The use of folic acid is important not only during pregnancy, but also in preparation for conception. This will prevent defects in the neural tube of the fetus. Tomatoes: a natural source of folic acid, which can replace some medications.

The tomatoes should be stored at about 20ºC. This will preserve its flavor and properties.

Storing the tomatoes in the refrigerator at a temperature of about 4 ° C destroys their volatile properties, depriving the taste and aroma. Refrigerated tomatoes can be soft.

The shelf life of tomatoes - from 2 weeks to several months, depending on the level of maturity. If you want to accelerate the ripening process of the tomatoes, place them in an opaque paper bag and close it. The enzymes secreted by the tomatoes will help them mature and be ready to eat quickly.