A seasonal vegetable that has no side effects and contraindications

The rating of the most consumed foods, of course, includes tomatoes. The red color of tomatoes is given by the pigment lycopene, which is a powerful antioxidant. Lycopene is not synthesized in the human body, it comes only with food. Its main source is tomatoes – up to 80% of total consumption. Depending on the variety of tomatoes, they contain from 5 to 50 mg/kg of lycopene. The lycopene content usually correlates with the intensity of the red color of the fruit. Functions of lycopene:

• Protects body cells from free radicals.
• It is not destroyed by heating and is absorbed with fats.
• Prevention of cataracts and age-related macular degeneration (a retinal disease in the elderly).
• Reduces the risk of atherosclerosis.
• Helps the skin to remain elastic.

Lycopene will be especially useful for people who smoke or work in hazardous industries. Tomatoes are one of the few fruits that have virtually no side effects and contraindications. But still, those with allergic reactions, gastrointestinal diseases, joint diseases, and autoimmune diseases should be careful. Be healthy!