Tomato tops CDC list as world's healthiest fruit

Eating fruits and vegetables is a cornerstone of a healthy diet, and experts constantly remind us of their essential role in preventing many diseases. The tomato holds a special place among the various options available on the market. According to the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), it has been recognized as the healthiest fruit in the world, which has generated significant interest among nutritionists and consumers. What are its most important properties, and why should it be included in our daily diet?

Although technically a fruit, the tomato is a vegetable in our kitchens. Due to its many nutrients, it has gained the status of a "superfood." What makes it so special?

              
• A treasure trove of antioxidants: Tomatoes are rich in lycopene, a particularly powerful antioxidant. Lycopene is associated with a reduced risk of heart disease and some types of cancer.
• Vitamins and minerals: Besides lycopene, tomatoes provide vitamin C, potassium, folic acid, and vitamin K.
• Support for heart health: Regular consumption of tomatoes can help lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of heart disease.
• Healthy skin: Lycopene in tomatoes helps protect the skin from damage caused by UV radiation.

How to eat tomatoes to fully utilize their potential?

• Cooked: Lycopene is best absorbed from cooked tomatoes. Therefore, it's worth opting for tomato sauces, soups, and pastes.
• Raw: Raw tomatoes are an excellent addition to salads and sandwiches.
• With fat: Combining tomatoes with olive oil or other healthy fats can increase lycopene absorption.

Experts recommend eating about 115-200 grams of tomatoes daily, which could be one medium-sized tomato or a pack of cherry tomatoes. However, variety is key to a healthy diet, so it's worth combining tomatoes with other fruits and vegetables.

Though the tomato has earned the title of the healthiest fruit, it's important to remember that many other fruits also have much to offer. Citrus fruits, berries, and strawberries are additional sources of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.

This simple and widely available fruit holds genuine health potential. Regular consumption of tomatoes can positively influence our health, reducing the risk of many diseases. Therefore, it is worth including it in your daily diet to enjoy its taste and nutritional value.