Tomato
Botanically classified as a fruit, tomatoes are sweet, juicy, and delicious. Tomatoes are not only a tasty addition to meal time, but they are packed with nutritional benefits as well. Tomatoes are a good source of vitamins A, C, K, folate, and potassium, and also provide thiamin, niacin, vitamin B6, magnesium, phosphorus, and copper, all of which are necessary for good health. They are naturally low in calories, fat, cholesterol, and sodium.
Cancer
Tomatoes are a natural cancer fighter. Lycopene is rare in foods, and tomatoes are one of only a few that are rich in this powerful antioxidant. Clinical studies have shown that lycopene can reduce the risk of cancers such as prostate, cervical, mouth, throat, stomach, colon, rectal, prostate, and ovarian cancer. In addition, the vitamin A and C in tomatoes fight the free radicals which can cause cell damage. Ironically, processed tomatoes (sauce, paste, etc.) are more effective than raw tomatoes at reducing cancer risk. The processing breaks down the cell walls which trap the lycopene making it more bioavailable. Tomatoes have been shown to be particularly effective against prostate cancers.
Eye Conditions
Tomatoes can improve your vision. The vitamin A that tomatoes provide can improve vision and help prevent eye conditions such as night blindness and macular degeneration. A deficiency in vitamin A contributes to the development of night blindness. A one cup serving of fresh tomatoes provides 30% of the daily value of vitamin A.
Osteoporosis
Tomatoes build strong bones and can ward off osteoporosis. Lycopene slows down the breakdown of bone cells and the vitamin K and calcium in tomatoes help strengthen and repair bones. A serving of tomatoes provide 18% the daily value for vitamin K.