Fighting Cancer and Boosting Health: The Surprising Benefits of Tomatoes

Fresh, juicy tomatoes not only add flavor to dishes but also provide numerous health benefits. According to Katrina Sommer, an advanced clinical dietitian with OSF HealthCare, tomatoes are packed with vitamins and minerals that can reduce the risk of cancer. Phytochemicals, bonus nutrients found in plant foods, help fight inflammation and act as antioxidants.

One such phytochemical is Lycopene, a type of carotenoid found in tomatoes, watermelon, and grapefruit. It gives these fruits their bright red or orange color and can be easily incorporated into meals by cooking them and drizzling olive oil on top. Research from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) has shown that a high intake of tomatoes can lower the risk of prostate cancer.

If you’re not a fan of eating tomatoes on their own, there are many ways to incorporate them into your diet. Try adding them to dishes like tomato sauce or tomato soup for a boost of nutrients while enjoying a delicious meal. So next time you’re at the grocery store, don’t forget to pick up some fresh, juicy tomatoes to keep your health at its peak.