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Health

27th Apr 2014

Food High Five – Five Reasons Tomatoes Are Good For You

This week, we're looking at the health benefits of tomatoes...

Rebecca McKnight

Every week, for our ‘Food High Five’ series, we talk about certain foods that have great health benefits.

This week, we’re looking at tomatoes.

It doesn’t matter if you add them to your salad or incorporate them into your spaghetti bolognese recipe, tomatoes are a must in your diet and below are the reasons why.

Snack or Side: Tomatoes Calories: 22 per medium tomato  A powerful antioxidant, studies also suggest that tomatoes could protect the skin against harmful UV rays, prevent certain cancers, and lower cholesterol.

Full of vitamins
Tomatoes are a great source of vitamins A, C and K as well as potassium and magnesium which are all really good for you.

Help you lose weight
Because they contain fibre and have a high water content, tomatoes are a good addition to a diet and can help you lose weight.

Good for skin and hair
As well as keeping your locks in good condition, this vegetable protects skin against sun damage and prevents signs of ageing including wrinkles and fine lines.

Strong bones
Tomatoes are a rich source of vitamin K and calcium, making them good for strengthening and repairing bones. They also help the body to fight osteoporosis.

Help to prevent cancer
Due to the lycopene they contain, this food reduces the risk of a number of cancers including cervical, throat, colon and ovarian.