Tomato Benefits

Turmeric-Tomato-Black Pepper Soup to Fight Inflammation, Cancer and More...

2016-06-07T23:32:00.000+07:00

Although inflammation is a necessary part of your immune response to real health threats, when it occurs out of context, it does a lot more harm than good.

Inflammation and Chronic Disease

Research has shown that unchecked inflammation in the body is associated with even the earliest stages of disease development. Inappropriate inflammation is the root cause of many common chronic diseases such as arthritis, asthma, inflammatory bowel disease, and even multiple sclerosis.

Yet, the key to reducing the number of people suffering from a chronic disease is to address inflammation through diet and lifestyle changes.

In a 2005 scientific publication, T. Edwards writes “we have enough information presently to make the necessary changes in our lifestyle to significantly affect the inflammatory process and potentially live longer, healthier lives, with fewer burdens to an overburdened and failing medical system”.

How to Combat Inflammation

The biggest factor that we have control over when it comes to inflammation, is our diet. While there are food types that are infamous for causing unnecessary and dangerous inflammation, there are others that have been proven to have the opposite effect. One of these foods is turmeric.

Turmeric benefits

Turmeric has long been used as a part of traditional Chinese medicine and Ayurvedic medicine for its anti-inflammatory properties. It’s being widely adopted in western culture for the same reason.

A 2011 study tested its effects on arthritis in rats, and found that turmeric decreased the production of inflammatory cytokines while increasing the production of anti-inflammatory cytokines in the body. These researchers also compared turmeric to ginger, and found that it was an even better anti-inflammatory than ginger is.

Turmeric is also used to promote digestive health. Specifically, it can help to treat Crohn’s disease, ulcers, and inflammatory bowel disease. Also, turmeric is an anti-oxidant, so it helps prevent cancer.

One study testing 3 different types of turmeric root found that it was able to reduce breast cancer, colon cancer, leukemia, and melanoma cancer!

Black pepper benefits

Eating turmeric along with black pepper will totally maximize its effects. There is a substance in black pepper called piperine that increases your body’s absorption of turmeric (bioavailability) by 2000%! Even on its own, black pepper can fight oxidation in your body, and can stimulate healthy digestion.

Tomato benefits

Tomatoes are full of lycopene; it’s what gives them their vibrant red color! It’s also what makes them powerful anti-oxidants.

Not only will reduce your risk of cancer, but consuming lycopene can also help guard against heart disease by lowering cholesterol levels in your body and keeping your blood pressure low. The bioavailability of lycopene (how well our bodies can absorb it during digestion) is significantly increased when we eat cooked tomatoes vs. raw tomatoes.

Turmeric Tomato Soup Recipe

This colourful and delicious vegan friendly soup takes advantage of all three of those chronic-disease fighting foods. We also love how quick it is to make: only 15 minutes!

What You Need:

¾ cup cherry tomatoes, rinsed and cut in halves
1 can diced tomatoes (don’t drain the sauce)
½ cup low-sodium vegetable stock
1 minced onion
2 minced garlic cloves
2 tsp turmeric powder
1 tsp coconut oil
½ tsp sea salt
1 tsp dried basil
1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
Freshly ground black pepper to taste

What to Do:

Fry onion and garlic in coconut oil over medium heat for 1 minute.
Add turmeric, cherry tomatoes. Cook until tomatoes are soft.
Add canned tomatoes, stock, ACV, and basil. Bring to boil on medium-high heat, then cover and let simmer on low heat for 5 minutes.
Blend using a blender or hand mixer until creamy.
Season with salt and pepper.

If you make this, post a pic and let us know what you think!

Grilled Chicken With Basil Tomato Salad

2016-06-04T12:37:00.000+07:00

Did you know that a study from the University of California, Berkeley, recently found that fresh ripe tomatoes with olive oil were scientifically proven to be the perfect summer salad?

OK, not really. That’s a made-up study. But if anyone ever did find a way to scientifically measure the perfect summer salad, then tomatoes with olive oil would probably be the winner. Especially if you add some fresh herbs and a splash of balsamic vinegar to bring out the flavors! And on top of the taste, this salad is also an antioxidant powerhouse.

For protein, add some grilled chicken with a simple herb rub. It’s nothing that will steal the show from the tomatoes, but this type of chicken recipe is great for making double or triple and saving the leftovers, especially as the weather starts edging towards “too hot to cook.” It’s just so nice to have some pre-cooked protein all ready in the fridge, and it gives you a reason to play around with even more salad options.

Grilled Chicken With Basil Tomato Salad Recipe

Servings: 4 | Preparation time: 20 min. | Cooking time: 25 min.

Ingredients:

4 chicken breasts, boneless and skinless;
2 tsp. (10 ml.) herbes de provence;
1 tsp. (5 ml.) paprika;
½ tsp. (2 ml.) garlic powder;
½ tsp. (2 ml.) onion powder;
1 tbsp (15 ml.) fresh lemon zest;
2 cups (473 ml.) cherry tomatoes, halved;
¼ cup (59 ml.) basil leaves, minced;
4 tbsp. (59 ml.) balsamic vinegar;
4 tbsp. (59 ml.) extra-virgin olive oil;
Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper;

Preparation:

Preheat a grill to medium high heat.
In a bowl, combine the herbes de provence, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, lemon zest, and salt and pepper to taste.
Sprinkle the spice mixture all over the chicken breasts.
Place on the preheated grill and cook for 10 to 12 minutes per side, until cooked through.
In a bowl combine the cherry tomatoes, basil, balsamic vinegar, and olive oil.
Toss everything together and season to taste.
Serve each chicken breast topped with the basil tomato salad

A Tomato Sauce Allergy In Children

2013-05-17T16:40:00.003+07:00

Tomatoes are botanically related to the potato, both included in the nightshade family of plants. Usually children who have an allergy to potatoes, also have an allergy to tomatoes.

There are at least four concepts to keep in mind about food allergies, namely avoidance, education, awareness, and preparedness. Your awareness of the problem of allergies in children is the initial motivator to encourage you to educate yourself more on this condition.

Education will increase your awareness and you will know the factors that can trigger an allergic reaction. This allows you to better prepare for situations in which an allergic reaction may occur.

Symptoms and Diagnosis of Tomatoes Allergy

Allergy to a tomato sauce can cause common symptoms such as other allergic reactions. Nausea, vomiting, skin rash, itching, airway constriction, wheezing, and swelling of the mouth, tongue, and lips.

These symptoms will usually appear within 45 minutes after people who have allergies consume tomatoes. However, a severe allergic reaction to tomatoes are scarce.

A doctor makes a diagnosis by observing tomato allergy symptoms and take your child's medical history. Diagnostic tests will be done if your child is suspected allergic to tomatoes.

Your child's blood will be taken and processed in the laboratory to detect the presence of antibodies to allergens tomatoes. Test results can be seen within 24 hours.

Warnings and Considerations

Anaphylactic shock due to food allergies can be fatal, it affects about 1 million people in the U.S. each year. If your child has a severe allergy to tomato sauce, anaphylactic shock reactions are possible. Take your child to the emergency room immediately if you suspect he suffered anaphylactic shock.

The symptoms of anaphylactic shock are narrowing of the airways, difficulty breathing and fainting that occurs between 5 to 15 minutes after exposure to an allergen.

A study published in 2001 investigated the cross-reactivity of tomato and latex allergens in a group of 40 children and young adults with allergic to tomatoes. If your child is allergic to tomato sauce, chances are she is also sensitive to latex as well. Consultation with your doctor immediately if you suspect your child may have some allergy sensitivity.

How To Get Rid of Blackheads With Tomato

2013-05-16T22:42:00.001+07:00

Usually acne problem, including blackheads, occur when the skin pores clogged with dirt, dead skin cells and sebum (natural oil produced by the skin glands). Tomatoes are known to be rich in vitamin A, C, and citric acid. This combination are a powerful natural remedy for blackheads.

In addition, using tomatoes are also much cheaper and less irritating to the skin than commercial acne formulations. The use of tomato as a face mask to get rid of blackheads is also flexible. Can be used alone or mixed with other fruits such as lemon and avocado.

How To Use Tomatoes To Get Rid Of Blackheads

Step 1

Sliced lime half. Use hand juicer to collect the juice of half a lime, put in a bowl and discard the seeds.

Step 2

Sliced tomato half. Use a juicer to separate the juice from the tomato pulp. Mix the tomato juice with lime juice. Pour the mixture in a small container and save it for later use as an astringent.

You can add a little water to dilute it, but it can also be used full strength for skin color after cleansing.

Step 3

Scoop pulp from the tomato juicer and put it in a second bowl. If necessary, you can use a spoon to scrape the pulp from the skin.

Step 4

Apply tomato pulp on your face, concentrating on areas where blackheads tend to accumulate. Leave for about 15 minutes.

Step 5

Use warm water and mild soap to wash your face, and pat dry.

Nutritional Value Of Tomatoes

2013-04-27T19:51:00.002+07:00

Although the tomato originated in America, but not many people used to eat it until after becoming popular in Europe. Tomato is currently the fourth most popular vegetable after potatoes, lettuce, and onions.

Actually tomato is a fruit, but many people consider it a vegetable based nutritional composition, flavor, and how to use. Tomatoes are widely used in various cuisines, including Mexican, Italian, Indonesian, and India.

Calories, Carbohydrates, and Fiber in Tomatoes

Tomatoes are low-calorie foods. Therefore, you need not worry to eat tomatoes. As you know, low-calorie foods can make you easier to maintain your weight. A 1 cup serving of sliced or chopped tomatoes contains only 32 calories. Most of these calories come from carbohydrate content.

Carbohydrate content in tomatoes will not cause a significant increase in blood sugar, it is because tomatoes have a low glycemic index. Eating more foods with a low glycemic index is very good for heart health and reduce the risk of diabetes.

Aside from being a source of healthy carbohydrates, tomatoes are also a source of fiber. Adequacy of fiber in the body will help lower blood cholesterol levels and helps prevent constipation. A 1 cup serving of tomato contains about 7 g of carbohydrates and 2.2 g fiber.

Vitamins and Minerals in Tomatoes

Tomatoes contain enough essential vitamins and minerals needed to maintain a healthy body. A 1 cup serving sliced or chopped tomato contains about 25 mg of vitamin C, 1,499 IU vitamin A, 27 mcg folate, and 427 mg of potassium.

Vitamin C is an excellent antioxidant for skin beauty. While vitamin B or folate is indispensable in the formation of red blood cells and DNA. Vitamin A helps the growth and health of bones and teeth, as well as maintaining eye health. While potassium is an essential mineral needed to maintain a healthy heart and muscle contraction.

Protein and Fat in Tomatoes

Tomatoes are not a good source of protein and fat. As you know, protein is needed by the body to build new cells and maintain muscle mass. While fat, than as a source of energy, fat also helps in the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins. To follow a balanced diet, you should be able to meet the needs adequate protein and fat. A 1 cup serving of tomato only contains about 1.5 g of protein and 0.4 g fat.

Tomatoes Health Benefits For Pregnancy

2013-04-27T16:58:00.002+07:00

The needs of nutrients and vitamins for pregnant women are different from those who are not pregnant. Pregnant women need more intake of nutrients and vitamins to ensure the fetus in the womb can grow healthily, and also to make a pregnant woman's body stay strong and healthy of course.

And increase the consumption of fruits is one of the things that are highly recommended. Among the many options, tomatoes can be selected as a fresh and healthy snacks during pregnancy. Tomatoes are good for pregnancy.

Vitamin C and Iron In Tomatoes

As mentioned previously, vitamins in tomatoes quite a lot, especially for vitamin C. This vitamin is very important and necessary during pregnancy to keep yourself and your baby healthy. Vitamin C helps the formation of bones and teeth, as well as maintain healthy gums.

Vitamin C also helps the absorption of iron, which is an important and vital minerals during pregnancy. As you know, pregnant women need more iron intake. Because of this, many doctors recommend additional iron supplements to pregnant women. And consuming tomatoes may help your body better absorb iron from the food you consume.

Lycopene in Tomatoes

Tomatoes are a good source of lycopene, an antioxidant compound that is believed to protect cell damage in the body. Many Institutes of Health state that it is safe for pregnant women to consume foods that contain lycopene.

Although the safety of lycopene supplement for pregnant women still need further research. So if you are currently pregnant, do not hesitate to consume tomatoes to get the benefits of lycopene in it. All you have to avoid is taking lycopene supplements.

New Developments and Considerations

A new breakthrough made by a plant biochemist at the University of Florida, which is engineered tomatoes that contain folate, the essential vitamin to avoid genetic defects in babies. All pregnant women are advised to be sure to get the right amount of these nutrients.

Folate usually found in dark green vegetables. Genetic engineering makes the tomatoes become a valuable source of folate. But this will still take many more years to be perfect.

Meanwhile, it turns out tomatoes also can cause discomfort for some pregnant women. During the second half of pregnancy, many pregnant women experience heartburn. Acidic foods like tomatoes may be able to exacerbate this problem in some pregnant women, and make heartburn worse. If you are experiencing heartburn, reduce the consumption of tomatoes and avoid other foods that cause digestive problems.

Benefits Of Vitamins In Tomatoes

2013-04-25T19:49:00.001+07:00

Tomatoes have gained more attention in recent decades, because the content of a carotenoid called lycopene, which is believed to offer antioxidant benefits. In some studies, lycopene is known to reduce the risk of some cancers, especially breast and prostate cancer. Tomatoes are commonly used in a variety of cuisines, including Indonesian, Indian, Italian, and Mexican. Tomatoes are also rich in several essential vitamins.

Vitamin A

Tomatoes are a good source of vitamin A. One cup serving of tomato provides about 58 mcg or about 7% of the daily intake of vitamin A is recommended. Function of vitamin A is to help maintain strong bones and teeth, protects the lungs, kidneys, and bladder from bacterial and fungal infections.

Vitamin A is also necessary to control acne and prevent skin infections. In addition, the vitamin is essential for preventing night blindness.

Vitamin B3

In one cup servings of tomatoes there are around 1,227 mg of vitamin B3, equivalent to 8% of the recommended daily intake, according to the USDA. Vitamin B3, also known as niacin is a vitamin that helps boost blood circulation in the arteries and blood vessels, which can ease the heart's workload.

This vitamin helps reduce levels of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol in the bloodstream. This vitamin also helps the body to metabolize fats, proteins, and carbohydrates are used for energy and cell repair.

Vitamin C

Tomato is a fruit that is very rich in vitamin C. One cup serving of cooked tomatoes contain about 55 mg of vitamin C, equivalent to 61% of the recommended daily intake for adults who are not pregnant. The highest content of vitamin C is in the tomato skin, but also present in the juice. Function of vitamin C is to boost the immune system and fight free radicals that attack healthy cells, causing cancer.

Health Benefits Of Lycopene In Tomatoes

2013-04-25T14:01:00.000+07:00

To investigate the benefits of lycopene for a variety of health problems, researchers often ask people about their intake of tomato consumption. This is to estimate the level of lycopene in their body. As you know, lycopene is a carotenoid that gives a reddish color to fruits and vegetables such as tomatoes and watermelon. In the human body, lycopene is found in the skin, lungs, liver, prostate, colon, and adrenal glands.

Until now, the benefits of foods containing lycopene, such as tomatoes, are controversial and require more research. And because tomatoes contain a lot of nutrients such as vitamin C, folate, and potassium, so many researchers were unable to conclude if only lycopene which gives real benefits of eating tomatoes. Quite a lot of research on the same topic which give conflicting results.

Antioxidants and Cancer Prevention Effects

Although not all studies have shown that lycopene acts as an antioxidant in the human body, but some studies actually show different results. Lycopene is an antioxidant that is similar to other carotenoids. However, because of the absence of an agreement, then more research is needed before making conclusions.

On the other hand, research has studied the relationship between the increase in the body's intake of lycopene / tomato intake and breast cancer. However, these studies are not very clear, whether lycopene actually affect your chances of avoiding breast cancer. Several studies have also shown conflicting results on the benefits of lycopene to prevent prostate cancer and cervical cancer. But in spite of all the above studies, a diet rich in lycopene, such as tomatoes, seems to lower your risk of developing ovarian cancer.

Other Benefits of Lycopene

Some studies show if lycopene has any effect on coronary artery disease. The studies are reported if the consumption of lycopene can help people with high cholesterol or hardening of the arteries. For other cases, lycopene is used to prevent benign prostatic hyperplasia. Research has proven if regular consumption of lycopene can avoid prostate enlargement. Those who have BPH is to be at high risk of prostate cancer.

Tomatoes Health Benefits For Men

2013-04-22T21:58:00.002+07:00

In the article "health benefits of tomatoes for men", I want to talk about one of the diseases that may be most feared by men. Prostate cancer! Yes, this disease has killed many men in the world each year.

Actually, like all systems of the body, prostate health is very dependent on the nutrient consumed. Consume enough nutritious food can promote the development of healthy prostate cells, and it can protect the prostate from damage. And tomatoes may be one good option to reduce the risk of prostate cancer and benign prostatic hyperplasia.

Lycopene, Prostate Cancer and Benign Prostate Hyperplasia

As you already know, tomatoes are a good source of lycopene. Lycopene is a powerful antioxidant to counteract free radicals that damage DNA and stimulate the formation of precancerous cells. Free radical itself is actually a byproduct of the metabolic process. The only way to counteract free radicals is by consuming foods that contain antioxidants, including lycopene.

Based on data released by the American Cancer Society, there are more than 30,000 people who die each year from prostate cancer. Therefore, choose foods that rich in lycopene to protect you from free radicals. Stewed tomatoes is one good option. Tomatoes that have been processed, such as stewed tomatoes, contain a lot more lycopene than raw tomatoes or other foods.

A common medical condition experienced by many older men is prostate enlargement, or commonly called benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). BPH is often made sense of uncomfortable and difficult urination. Based on a study, the consumption of lycopene may help treat benign prostatic hyperplasia. A number of volunteers were given supplements of lycopene per day for 6 months. And the results were encouraging, proven BPH progression can be slowed to a large number of volunteers.

Consideration

Although what was said earlier is based on accurate data, but consumes just stewed tomatoes will not affect the health of your prostate. You still have to keep your healthy weight (tomatoes are also good for weight loss), doing regular exercise and choose healthy foods that are rich in antioxidants. If you are currently experiencing problems with your prostate, try to talk first with your doctor for treatment options.

Tomatoes Health Benefits For Skin

2013-04-21T20:56:00.000+07:00

Tomato is a multifunctional fruit, not only beneficial for maintaining a healthy body, but the tomatoes are also effective for maintaining skin health and beauty. Tomatoes can work well on any skin type. They can provide help to overcome the problem of acne and oily skin. They can also be combined with other materials to address various skin problems. Benefits of tomatoes for skin health can not be underestimated.

Tomatoes are rich in antioxidant, which helps to fight free radicals. In addition, they are also a source of vitamins B1, B2, B3, B6, C, E, iron, and potassium. These are all very important elements for skin beauty.

Tomatoes also contains natural acids that serve to overcome the excess oil, which in turn can prevent the appearance of acne. Furthermore, tomatoes can reduce pore size, moisturize skin, and make skin soft and relaxed.

Overcome Acne Using Tomatoes

To reduce acne, take 1 tomato, mash until somewhat smooth, apply on face and leave about 1 hour. After that, wash with water until clean. Do it at least once a week.

To reduce excess oil, slice the tomatoes in half and rub it on your skin, focusing on areas that many acne appears. After a few minutes, wash your face with cold water. Or you can also mix tomatoes with cucumber. Mash and strain it with a clean cloth to take the juice. Use a cotton ball to rub it into the face. Allow a few minutes and wash with cold water.

How to Make Tomato Mask

Masks made of tomato and avocado can be used for all skin types. How to make it very easy, just mashed tomato and avocado until smooth, then spread to the face. Allow about 20 minutes, and wash with water. Or you can also combine tomatoes with yogurt. Mashed tomatoes until slightly smooth, add plain yogurt and mix well. Apply evenly on face, leave for 20 minutes, then wash with water.

How to Make a Facial Cleanser Using Tomatoes

To make a facial cleanser from tomatoes is easy. Mash some tomatoes, filtered with a clean cloth and take the juice. Mix tomato juice with milk and stir until blended. Wash your face and neck with this mixture, let stand for 10 minutes before rinsing with water.

To shrink the pores of the skin, mix tomato juice with lime juice. Apply this mixture evenly to the face and massage gently. Allow about 15 minutes then rinse with water until clean.

Tomatoes Health Benefits For Weight Loss

2013-03-31T07:00:00.000+07:00

Tomatoes have many health and beauty benefits. Including to help lose weight. To get the maximum benefit for your health and your diet, it is advisable to consume this fruit regularly every day.

Tomatoes In Your Meal

Some people who know little about the benefits of tomatoes want to lose weight quickly. They think just by eating tomatoes for a short time can make their body become slim fast.

This is certainly wrong. Since there are no foods that contain all the nutrients the body needs, including tomatoes. Although tomatoes contain a variety of nutrients, but the consumption of tomatoes alone would not suffice for the needs of your body.

You still need to eat a varied diet, but by incorporating tomatoes as one of the healthy foods in your diet. Weight loss program will work well if you cultivate a good lifestyle. Adjust your sleep patterns and run a nutritionally balanced diet. Make a glass of tomato juice as part of your breakfast menu.

Nutrition in Tomatoes

The content of nutrients in tomatoes is very abundant. And this is certainly very beneficial to your body's health. Nutrients contained in tomatoes instrumental improve your physical health, among others:

Lycopene, an antioxidant to counteract the free radicals that can cause oxidation, that can delay aging on the human body.
Pectin, a fiber that can accelerate intestinal peristalsis.
Glutamine and aspartic acid strengthen the flavor of the food.
Potassium, calcium, magnesium, iron and zinc minerals are substances that can increase the absorption of vitamins.
Citric acid and malic acid may increase appetite and reduce fatigue.
Glucose can greatly reduce mental and physical fatigue by supplying quick energy absorption.
Vitamins in it effectively prevent various diseases, including skin health.

Tomato Consumption Benefits For Weight Loss

Some of the benefits that can be obtained through the consumption of tomatoes for weight loss programs include:

Improve metabolism. Fiber, lycopene and other nutrients contained in tomatoes can lower cholesterol and accelerate your metabolism.
Beautify the skin. Lycopene is an antioxidant that can counteract free radicals in the human body and prevents skin dryness.
Increasing appetite.
Lose weight with tomatoes also accelerate the release of growth hormone during sleep and increases metabolism.

Tomatoes health benefits for weight loss is the real thing if applied appropriately. So do not hesitate to include this fruit in your diet!

Tomatoes Health Benefits For Women

2013-03-31T04:22:00.001+07:00

Tomato is a fruit of multiple benefits, you can see a variety of benefits contained in tomatoes in the main article here...

In this article I would like to inform the benefits of tomatoes for women. Why women are advised to consume tomato juice or foods containing tomatoes. What diseases can be avoided by regularly consume tomatoes?

Tomatoes contain essential nutrients such as niacin, folic acid and vitamin B6, which has been associated with reduced risk of heart disease. One study found that women who eat 7 to 10 servings of tomato products per week had a 29% lower risk of heart disease than women who ate less than one serving half of tomato products every week. The results were even more impressive when women eat the oil-rich tomato products.

Benefits of Lycopene in Tomatoes For Women

This gem is loaded with the antioxidant lycopene. Women with lycopene-rich diets can have as many as 50% lower risk of breast cancer. Research on tomato and breast cancer risk is largely focused on carotenoid lycopene, and there are enough well-documented reduction in the risk for breast cancer associated with intake of lycopene. The study also found that eating tomatoes regularly can reduce the risk of ovarian cancer, especially in premenopausal women.

Researchers have recently discovered the important relationship between lycopene, antioxidant properties, and bone health. A study designed where tomatoes and other food sources of lycopene have been removed from the diet of postmenopausal women for 4 weeks, to see what the effect of lycopene restriction will have on bone health.

At the end of 4 weeks, women in the study started to show signs of increased oxidative stress in their bones and unwanted changes in their bone tissue. The researchers concluded that the removal of foods containing lycopene (including tomatoes) from the diet is likely to put women at increased risk of osteoporosis.

Tomatoes are also very good for nursing mothers. When a nursing mother eat tomato products, this will increase the concentration lycopenein in their milk. In this case, is best cooked. The researchers also found that eating tomato products such as tomato sauce increases the concentration of lycopene in breast milk over eating fresh tomatoes. Benefits of tomatoes for women was remarkable. So make sure to always take it daily.

All The Benefits of Tomato Juice

2013-02-06T06:00:00.001+07:00

Tomatoes are a natural health secrets that provided by the Earth for humans. Tomatoes contain nutrients, vitamins, and minerals, which are very good for improving endurance and health. And the best way to get all the nutrients from the tomato is by consuming tomatoes that are still fresh and freshly picked, because all of the vitamins and minerals are still intact.

French people called tomatoes as the apple of love, it is because potassium minerals found in tomatoes can increase stamina and refresh the body after a tiring work activity. And not only restore the stamina, but also to maintain the quality of sexual desire for men.

In addition, the high content of vitamin C in tomatoes is also very good to boost the immune system in the body. Tomato juice is also beneficial to increase glycogen levels in human liver. With the liver remained stable and healthy, you need not worry if you have to do heavy physical work.

Health Benefits of Tomato Juice

Tomatoes are beneficial for blood circulation and prevent prostate cancer because of the antioxidant called lycopene. In addition, another tomato juice benefit is to control the stability of blood sugar and cholesterol levels in the bloodstream. Drinking tomato juice also improve the health of human bile. Bioflavonoids that contained in tomato juice increases capillary resistance and can help avoid leaks in the blood vessels.

Drinking tomato juice is also very useful for maintaining a healthy digestive system while increasing your appetite. Tomato juice if consumed regularly can help cure the anorexia disease. Tomatoes and spinach that were served in the form of juice is very good for treating constipation also.

Actually there are many more tomato juice benefits that is still studied till now. You can see the main article on this blog about the tomatoes health benefits.

Cherry Tomatoes

2013-02-05T05:00:00.001+07:00

Cherry tomatoes are the smallest type of all variants of the tomato. This type of tomato is becoming known in the 1800's. Thought to originate from Peru and northern Chile. Cherry tomato size varies from as small as a cherry to a golf ball. Fruit shape from perfectly round to slightly oval. When young, cherry tomatoes have a pale green color, and when ripe the color changed to yellow, orange, or red.

A Brief History of Cherry Tomatoes

Based on historical records, cherry tomatoes were first cultivated by the Aztecs who brought the tomato seeds from around Mexico. From there cherry tomatoes gradually spread throughout the world. On the other hand, in Greece there is also a tomato plant that is similar to cherry tomatoes. The Greeks called it by the name of Santorini. Santorini seeds carried by a monk who came from Egypt in 1875. Since that this type of tomato has been cultivated intensively.

Cherry tomatoes popularity occurred around the 1900's, when the cherry tomatoes were introduced to America. This type of tomato is often consumed directly because it tastes sweet, or often also used as a mixture in the salad. Type of the most famous cherry tomatoes in America is Sweet 100.

Cherry Tomato Cultivation

Cherry tomatoes suitable for planting in areas with temperatures between 16-27 degrees Celsius and at an altitude of about 600-1200 meters. Cherry tomatoes will be very good if grown in greenhouses with hydroponic systems.

The fruit is said to have a good quality if it has a smooth skin and a flat color in all parts of the fruit. To maintain a sense of sweet and fresh, it is not advisable to store the cherry tomatoes in the refrigerator.

Although small in size, cherry tomatoes turned out to have no less nutrients than any other tomato. Therefore, tomatoes health benefits can also be obtained by eating cherry tomatoes regularly.

Types Of Tomatoes

2013-02-04T06:00:00.001+07:00

Did you know if there are many types of tomatoes that are successfully cultivated all over the world?

Almost every country has a different kind of tomato variants. However, regardless of the different types of tomatoes, usually the types of tomato plants divided by height, fruit shape, and functionality.

Types of tomatoes by plant height

1. Determinate

Determinate group was the shortest among the tomato plants, which only ranged from 50-80 cm only. This group cannot grow tall because of the end of the crop topped with flower arrangements. This species has a relatively very short life so it can be harvested more quickly.

2. Intermediate

Intermediate group is a type of tomato plants that can be grown up to 2 meters high. Tomato plants that included in this group requires staking / cage for support. However, although it can grow very tall, age of the plant in this group was only about 4-5 months.

3. Hybrids

This group is the result of a cross between determinate and intermediate classes. Because it is a cross between the two groups, these varieties have properties of both groups.

Besides grouping by physical form, types of tomatoes are also largely determined by the shape of fruit and usefulness.

Types of tomatoes based on size and shape

1. Plum Tomatoes

As the name implies, this tomatoes looks like a plum. Oval rounded shape, flesh contains a lot of water and has a thin skin surface. Plum tomatoes are generally processed to be used as a sauce or tomato juice.

2. Beefsteak Tomatoes

Beefsteak tomato has the largest shape when compared to other types. Because of its large size, this type of tomatoes is often used to make a sandwich or hamburger. But often the cooks also use it as a stir fry or other dishes that require tomatoes in large size.

3. Cherry Tomatoes

This type of tomatoes is small and somewhat oval. When young the color is pale green, and when fully ripe the color changed to reddish orange. Cherry tomatoes flavor is quite sweet, and contains quite a lot of juice. Commonly used as a salad dressing or eaten fresh.

4. Pear Tomatoes

This type of tomatoes is indeed similar to pear fruit (such as tears fall), only the shape is much smaller than pear fruit. It has a wide range of colors, ranging from red, orange, and yellow, and it was pretty sweet. Generally consumed straight or as a salad dressing.

5. Grape Tomatoes

Grape tomatoes are the smallest variant among others. Unlike the cherry tomatoes that tend to be oval, the shape of grape tomatoes tends to be more rounded and smaller. Because it tastes pretty sweet, grape tomatoes often consumed directly or used as a salad.

However, regardless of the types, all types of tomatoes have nutrients approximately the same. And certainly equally beneficial for health.

How To Grow Tomatoes

2013-02-03T06:00:00.001+07:00

Tomato is one of the horticultural crops that have high economic value. Although tomatoes can be grown almost anywhere, that is warm and little damp, but how to grow tomatoes need to be intensified in order to provide optimal results.

As you know, the tomato is a multipurpose plant, in addition to functioning as a vegetable and a fruit, the tomato is also used as a base for cosmetics and medicines.

Based on the type of growth, tomato plants can be divided into two, namely determinate and indeterminate. Determinate types have short stature, bunches of flowers located on each side and at the end of the stem of the plant. While the indeterminate types have a high posture, bunches of flowers lies alternate between 2-3 sections. Indeterminate type of tomato plants usually have large fruit size.

Before you start planting tomatoes, you should consider a few things:

Although tomato plants including shrubs, but the height can reach 3 meters, so provide adequate space for plants to grow well.
Age of tomato short enough at around 4-5 months and will die after harvest.
Tomatoes need sunlight in large quantities and environments that have high humidity levels. Lack of sunlight can cause tomato plants susceptible to disease, while too much water will cause root rot easily.

Some steps to grow tomatoes properly and correctly:

Preparation Stage

This stage includes seed selection and preparation of the land to be planted. Good tomato seedlings are intact, no defects, clean, and no wrinkles. Seeds can be easily obtained at the farm store, but if you can not find it, you can create your own.

Choose tomatoes that are large and ripe, and then take the seeds and dry it. How to dry it should not be directly exposed to sunlight. Just aerated enough. If the weather is good, the tomato seeds will be ready in 2-3 days.

As for the preparation of the land, you can plant tomatoes directly in the ground or in a polybag. Add compost in sufficient quantities. Tomatoes demand a growing medium rich in organic matter. Use polybag size 10 kg if you want to grow tomatoes in a polybag.

Seeding Stage

Before planting tomatoes in the media that has been determined, it is recommended to do seedbed to get the seedling of plants that strong and healthy. You can sow seeds on a tray size of 30x15x15 cm.

Put the seedbed media on location that get enough sunlight, but do not place directly in the sun. Lay it in the shade, as too much sun will also inhibit the growth of tomato seeds. After 6-8 weeks, the tomato seedlings ready to be planted in the media that has been prepared.

Planting Stage

Next is to move the tomato seedlings in seedbed media to the actual planting medium. Choose tomato seedlings that have a large enough size. Try to plant it deep enough so that the tomato plants are not easily collapse. After planting, watering tomatoes using enough water.

At the time of planting, make sure the tomato plants are given a wide enough range so that they can grow to its full potential. The recommended distance is 30x30cm. For planted in polybags you need not worry about the distance.

Simply adjust it according to the size of the plant. For the first few weeks of planting, tomatoes should be avoided out of direct sunlight, especially during the daytime.

Treatment Stage

There are 6 important part of this stage:

Watering: should be done 2 times a day or when the planting media looks dry. Do not do too much watering, because it can make tomato plants susceptible to disease.
Fertilizer application: just give 1 tablespoon of NPK fertilizer with a distance of about 10cm from the plant stem. Giving fertilizer every 2 weeks. Note the tomato plants need more P than of N elements, so adjust fertilizer that you use.
Destroying weeds: as we know the weeds absorb the nutrients that should be reserved for tomato plants. You need to mow the weeds, or perform preventive steps by adding mulch to the surface of the planting medium.
Setup Stake: tomato plants are fairly fragile and require cages / stake in order to grow well. Therefore, when the tomato plants have started to grow, you need to provide stake for support.
Pest control: Pest of the most frequent attack tomato plants are small white insects called aphids. Aphid attack tomato plants by sucking nutrients on tomato plants, it makes tomato plants can not grow maximum. How to overcome it is by picking the leaves that was attacked, then burn it. Or if the insect has been attacked very badly, you can also use pesticides.
Cutting Shoots: after the tomato plants begin to bear fruit, new shoots need to be cut so that the quality of the fruit could be better.

Harvest Stage

After the hard work you've been through, the most awaited moment finally comes the harvest time. Things to consider when harvesting: if you want to immediately consume it, picking tomatoes that are dark red. Meanwhile, if you want to save it and use it later, it is better to choose a less red tomatoes.

How to grow tomatoes is a bit tricky. However, if treated properly, the results will be good also.

Tomatoes Benefits for Skin Beauty

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Tomatoes not only have many benefits for your health, but it turns out tomatoes are also very useful for maintaining skin beauty. Tomatoes are a fruit that is inserted into the vegetables. Having a high content of vitamins A, C, E, iron, and potassium. In addition, tomatoes also contain high antioxidant and astringent substances which are very good for maintaining skin beauty.

Utilization of tomatoes to nourish skin beauty has actually been done for a long time ago, particularly to address blackheads and oily skin problems. However, several recent studies have provided additional information about the benefits of tomatoes for skin health and beauty. Here are some benefits of tomato for skin beauty:

4 Beauty Benefits of Tomatoes for Your Skin

1. As Natural Sunscreen

Tomatoes can be used as a natural sunscreen to prevent your skin from sunburn. The trick is by smoothing the tomatoes and rub it on the skin that is exposed to direct sunlight.

Not only serves as a natural sunscreen, if your skin becomes inflamed due to sunburn, you can also add a bit of yogurt in tomatoes that have been crushed, and then rub it on the parts that become inflamed.

2. For Skin Lightening and Addressing Blackheads

The content of citric acid in tomatoes is very useful to remove dirt and reduce oil production. That's why tomatoes are very useful to lighten the skin and overcome blackheads.

For normal to dry skin, you can mix the tomatoes with avocado for maximum results. The way is by mashing tomatoes and avocado, then apply to the face as a mask and leave on for 20-30 minutes. After that wash with cold water.

3. To Overcome Oily Skin

To overcome oily skin is very easy. Simply cut the tomatoes into 2 parts, then squeeze and filter it. Add a little cucumber juice into your tomato juice. Then apply the mixture with a cotton swab to the entire surface of the face. Leave on for 20-30 minutes. Then wash with warm water.

4. For Anti Aging

High content of antioxidants and lycopene makes tomatoes very powerful as a natural anti-aging. The combination of these two substances works to counteract free radicals and protect skin cells from damage.

Tomatoes Health Benefits In General

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Tomato plants originally came from around Peru, Ecuador and Bolivia are now spread almost all over the world. Tomato is a fruit that inserted in the vegetable group. Has many benefits for health and beauty. Tomatoes can be processed into various types of cuisine, such as for sauce ingredients, as a spice in cooking, salads and sandwiches, and can also be processed into pickles.

Tomatoes are rich in vitamins, minerals, carbohydrates, fiber, dietary fat, protein, sugar and water. Eating tomatoes regularly can prevent disease, as well as to cure and control of several diseases. There are at least 10 tomatoes health benefits for the human body, which are:

Top 10 Health Benefits of Tomatoes

1. Keeps Skin Healthy

Regular consumption of tomatoes will help make your skin look great. Tomatoes have lycopene, an antioxidant that helps protect skin against sun damage. It also makes skin less sensitive to ultraviolet light damage, one of the main causes of fine lines and wrinkles on the face.

Also, tomatoes can be used to minimize large pores, heal acne and rashes or treat minor burns. Rubbing the pulp of tomatoes on dull skin is a simple way to revive a healthy glow.

2. Against Cancer

A study published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute suggests that eating more tomatoes lowers the risk of prostate cancer.

It may also decrease the risk of other cancers like lung, stomach, cervical, mouth, pharynx, throat, esophagus, colon, rectal, and ovarian cancer. This is primarily due to the antioxidant lycopene that is present in tomatoes.

A study published in the Asia Pacific Journal of Clinical Nutrition states that the anti-cancer benefits of tomatoes are maximized when they are cooked with olive oil.

3. Supports Bone Health

Tomatoes are good for your bones due to the presence of vitamin K and calcium in them. Both these elements are excellent for strengthening and repairing bones.

The antioxidant lycopene also has been shown to improve bone mass, which is a great way to fight osteoporosis, a disease that can lead to bone fractures, disability, and deformity.

4. Improves Vision

The high amount of vitamins A and C in tomatoes can greatly help improve your vision and prevent night blindness. Recent research shows that the vitamin A in tomatoes helps reduce the risk of macular degeneration, a serious and irreversible eye condition.

Tomatoes also can reduce the risk of developing cataracts. Plus, tomatoes contain the phytochemical antioxidants zeaxanthin, lutein and lycopene. All these compounds protect the eyes from light damage.

5. Lowers Blood Pressure

Tomatoes, which are rich in potassium, can help lower blood pressure. It has been found that blood pressure can rise when your diet lacks potassium, especially if you consume too much sodium. Potassium helps flush sodium from your body.

Just one cup of fresh tomatoes contains 11.4 percent of your daily requirement of potassium, so eating more tomatoes is a great way to fight high blood pressure and reduce the risk of various heart diseases.

At the same time, tomatoes contain an array of powerful nutrients like lycopene, vitamins A and C, fiber, and carotenoids that work together to reduce the risk of heart disease.

6. Reduces Chronic Pain

Tomatoes can even reduce chronic pain, due to the presence of anti-inflammatory agents like bioflavonoids and carotenoids. Those who regularly suffer from mild to moderate pain often have inflammation. Reducing inflammation will automatically bring pain relief.

A study found that drinking a glass of tomato juice daily can reduce blood levels of TNF-alpha, which causes inflammation, by 34 percent. Tomatoes are a good food for people suffering from chronic, degenerative health problems like heart disease, cancer, osteoporosis and Alzheimer’s.

7. Reduces Hair Problems

Tomatoes can even make your hair look better. The vitamins (especially vitamin A) and iron present in tomatoes help strengthen hair as well as add shine to dull, damaged and lifeless locks.

Plus, the acidity in tomatoes helps balance the pH levels in your hair, which in turn helps remove hair colors and dyes and maintain your hair’s natural color.

If you have an itchy scalp and dandruff, simply apply fresh tomato juice on your scalp and hair after shampooing, leave it in for four to five minutes and then rinse with cold water.

Note: Do not use tomatoes on your hair on a regular basis as their acidity can leave your hair dry.

8. Lowers Blood Sugar Levels

Tomatoes are a great food for diabetics to lower their blood sugar levels. They contain very little carbohydrates, which helps control the urine glucose level.

They are also a very good source of chromium that helps regulate blood sugar, as well as fiber, which has been shown to keep blood sugar levels from getting too high.

Several studies have shown that the antioxidants in tomatoes also provide protection to the kidneys and bloodstream, two areas frequently affected by diabetes. Finally, a low-calorie food like tomatoes can be helpful for diabetics trying to lose weight.

9. Controls Weight

Tomatoes can help you lose weight also. Tomatoes are very low in fat and have zero cholesterol. They contain lots of water and fiber, so they help your stomach fill up fast without a lot of calories.

So, if you are planning to lose weight, include lots of tomatoes into your diet plan. You can eat them raw like an apple or add them to salads, casseroles, sandwiches and other meals.

10. Promotes Sound Sleep

According to a study from the University of Pennsylvania’s Perelman School of Medicine, those who consume more lycopene enjoy better sleep compared with people who do not. Tomatoes contain a good amount of lycopene.

Also, including higher levels of vitamin C in your diet can promote sound sleep and tomatoes are a great source of vitamin C. So, if you are not sleeping properly, try eating tomato soup or a salad with tomatoes at dinner time.