Tomatoes

     There are hundreds of different tomato varieties and normally we choose the combination of flavor, texture and appearance, but it is also important to consider the antioxidant capacity of the variety of tomato when we choose which one we want. Tomatoes does not have to be really deep red in color to have a greater source of lycopene. Lycopene is a carotenoid pigment that has been associated with tomatoes. In recent studies lycopene from orange and tangerine colored tomatoes may be better absorbed than the deep red colored tomatoes. Further studies are being made on this. 

     Tomatoes are rich in lycopene which is an antioxidant that may play an important role in our bone health.

     Fresh tomatoes and tomato extracts helps lower total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, and triglycerides. Studies also show that tomato extracts can help prevent clumping together of platelet cells in the blood. A factor that is important is lowering heart problems like atherosclerosis.

     More studies are being done on the health benefits of tomatoes in support of heart health. 

     So keep those tomatoes handy in your kitchen.