Licopen contained in tomatoes Is a strong antioxidant. To use it, you need to properly prepare tomatoes and combine with several products that will strengthen its operation. Thanks to this, you will get the tomatoes out of the healthiest and prepare A dish that protects your heart and circulatory system.
although they are thermophilic vegetables, naturally found in South America, they are easily accessible in Poland. In the summer we can choose various varieties From a buffalo heart, raspberry, strawberry, plum, lima, to a different color cocktail tomatoes. Poles willingly use them to prepare all kinds, soups, but also salads. Why is it worth eating tomatoes?
These vegetables contain many valuable substances for health. The most important of them to likopen. It is a relationship from the group of Karetonoids – the same from which beta -carotene comes. It has a strong antioxidant effect. It protects the body against oxidative stress responsible for a number of metabolic and neurodegenerative diseases. That’s not all. LIKOPEN contained in tomatoes:
- It inhibits the oxidation of LDL cholesterol, i.e. it does not allow cholesterol to turn into atherosclerotic plaques. Therefore, it has an anti -trackic effect;
- protects blood vessels from calcification;
- lowers blood pressure;
- Protects bones against bone loss – menopause women are particularly vulnerable;
- improves fertility in men;
- It works anti -aging – protects the skin against the harmful effects of UV radiation.
Licopen is responsible for the red color of tomatoes. For this reason, the largest amount is found in red and mature varieties. A negligible amount of lycopene is present in yellow and green tomatoes.
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Tomatoes are also a rich source of potassium. It is worth remembering, because according to research it appears that we consume it twice less than we should. Potassium is another nutrient that protects the circulatory system and heart. Its deficiency increases the risk of hypertension and favors heart disorders. In addition, you may feel the numbness of the limbs and cramps, as well as increased drowsiness, lack of concentration or deterioration of mood.
What else can you find in tomatoes? In smaller quantities, these vegetables provide vitamins and fiber. Many people on a slimming diet are also pleased that They are low in calories. One medium tomato provides only 25 kcal.
However, the rich composition of tomatoes is not everything. To fully use their valuable health values, they should be properly prepared. Licopen is much more absorbable by the body if the tomatoes are finely chopped and preferably grated. So all kinds puree, juices and sauces provide this substance the most.
Second increasing factor The absorption of lycopene is warm. Before serving, it is worth undergoing gentle heat treatment. Fortunately, potassium contained in tomatoes is resistant to a higher temperature, so it will not break down. Only vitamin C, which is a substance sensitive to temperature above 40 degrees Celsius, can break down. If you want the tomato to provide you with this vitamin, it’s best to eat it raw. Fortunately, vitamin C is available in a much larger number of products, So you have nothing to worry about her shortage.
Licopen contained in tomatoes is a fat -soluble component. To increase its absorption, add a tablespoon of vegetable oil to the tomato sauce. Monounsaturated fats contained, among others In olive oil, they have a similar cardioprotective effect as lycopene, Thanks to which you will strengthen its operation.
It is also worth adding sources of vitamin E to tomatoes e.g. pumpkin seeds, nuts or vegetable oils. This vitamin protects lycopene against oxidation.
Some food products also show antiatherosclerotic properties, and they fit perfectly with tomatoes. In your dishes Use garlic and onionwhich will also take care of your immunity and also Fish rich in Omega 3 fatty acids. Such meals not only taste wonderful, but also protect your heart.
Sources: Teragotzie.pl, justbe.fit, pubmed
