Earlier in this Health Benefits section, we gave you a close-up look at some of the best-researched antioxidants in tomatoes. In order to keep this oxygen in check, antioxidant nutrients are needed in an ample supply. The heart and bloodstream are responsible for taking oxygen breathed in through the lungs and circulating it around throughout the body. No body system has a greater need for antioxidant protection than the cardiovascular system. The first line of research involves antioxidant support, and the second line of research involves regulation of fats in the bloodstream. There are two basic lines of research that have repeatedly linked tomatoes to heart health. Reduced risk of heart disease is an area of health benefits in which tomatoes truly excel. We’ve seen studies involving tomato and specific antioxidant protection of the bones, liver, kidneys, and bloodstream. Better antioxidant protection has also been shown using broad measurements of oxidative stress in different body systems. Sometimes this protection comes in the form of better antioxidant enzyme function (for example, better function of the enzymes catalase or superoxide dismustase). Sometimes this protection comes in the form of reduced lipid peroxidation (oxygen damage to fats in cell membranes or in the bloodstream). Specific antioxidant nutrients found in tomatoes, whole tomato extracts, and overall dietary intake of tomatoes have all been associated with antioxidant protection. In terms of phytonutrients, tomatoes are basically off the chart, and include: In terms of conventional antioxidants, tomatoes provide an excellent amount of vitamin C and beta-carotene a very good amount of the mineral manganese and a good amount of vitamin E. Tomatoes are a treasure of riches when it comes to their antioxidant benefits. Their high acid content makes them a perfect food for canning. They are delicious eaten raw, in salads or on sandwiches, and take on a wonderful sweetness when cooked. Tomatoes are an incredibly versatile food. Tomatoes are often considered a vegetable, though in actuality they are a citrus fruit. Does everyone know specifically why tomatoes are a healthful food? Ummm… They have vitamin C? They’re low in calories? They’re fat-free? Yes, yes, and yes, but that’s not all! Everyone knows they are good for you, right? Uh, yeah, sure. Tomatoes! They’re sweet, juicy, and delicious.
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