Tomatoes

Tomatoes are often incorrectly referred to as a vegetable when in fact they are part of the berry family. Originating from Central and South America, this fruit started spreading around the globe in the 16th century. In addition to being delicious, tomatoes offer a variety of health benefits. They are rich in the antioxidant lycopene which is associated with a reduced risk of heart disease and certain cancers. A study from Cornell University even found that cooking tomatoes increases the amount of lycopene content that the body can absorb. The fruit is also rich in fiber, vitamins C and K, as well as potassium and folate. In the kitchen, tomatoes are extremely versatile as they can be eaten raw, roasted, used in salads, sandwiches, sauces and many other dishes. The final weeks of summer are the best time to enjoy this delicious fruit!

Photo: Unsplash

Summer Caprese Salad

Summer is the best season for juicy and flavorful tomatoes. One of easiest yet delicious dishes using tomatoes is a simple caprese salad, perfect for a summer lunch or dinner!

Ingredients:
2 large tomatoes
Fresh mozzarella
Fresh basil leaves
Balsamic vinegar
Salt and pepper

Preparation:
Cut the tomatoes and mozzarella into 1/4 inch thick slices. Then on a plate layer in alternating fashion the mozzarella and tomato slices. Season with salt and pepper and drizzle lightly with balsamic vinegar. Then decorate the top with the fresh basil leaves and enjoy!

Tips: To make it more of a salad you can layer the mozzarella and tomatoes on a bed of fresh arugula or spinach. You can also drizzle olive oil over the salad or add olives for additional flavor.

Tomatoes

Tomatoes are often incorrectly referred to as a vegetable when in fact they are part of the berry family! Originating from Central and South America, this fruit started spreading around the globe in the 16th century. In addition to being delicious, tomatoes offer a variety of health benefits. They are rich in the antioxidant lycopene which is associated with a reduced risk of heart disease and certain cancers. A study from Cornell University even found that cooking tomatoes increases the amount of lycopene content that the body can absorb. The fruit is also rich in fiber, vitamins C and K, as well as potassium and folate. In the kitchen, tomatoes are extremely versatile as they can be eaten raw, roasted, used in salads, sandwiches, sauces and many other dishes. The current summer months are the best time to enjoy this delicious fruit!

Photo: Unsplash

Tomatoes – what makes them special at Metabolic Balance

MB 08-11-2019

Many Metabolic Balance clients have little or no tomato listed on their personal nutrition plans.  There are a few different reasons why this might be the case. First, tomatoes naturally contain glutamate and other fruit acids which have an appetizing effect. Secondly, tomatoes contain oxalic acid (similar to rhubarb, beetroot and spinach). This is known to bind to calcium, and thus, it reduces the availability of calcium for absorption and hence for the body to use. People suffering from gout, rheumatism and with histamine intolerance are advised to avoid tomatoes, or at least eat them only occasionally. 

Tomatoes Add To Your Life – Information You May Want to Read About Tomatoes

Today, we are sharing research about tomatoes. UC Davis has a great link page to articles about tomatoes focusing mostly on growing and tomato issues.  We are only sharing information about eating and cooking with tomatoes but if you are interested in tomatoes, you can follow the main link to the extensive list.

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Photo of tomatoes by Jeremy Segrott