Monday, July 7, 2014

Benefits of the Cherry Tomato

Cherry tomatoes are miniature versions of traditional beefsteak tomatoes, but they are equally as nutritious. In addition to the 1.3 grams of protein, 1.8 grams of fiber and 20 milligrams of vitamin C in 1 cup of cherry tomatoes, you also get a healthy dose of other vitamins and minerals essential for good health.

 A cup of cherry tomatoes contains 27 calories.


Vitamin B-6

If you're under the age of 50, you need 1.3 milligrams of vitamin B-6 per day, and after 50 you should get 1.5 to 1.7 milligrams of the essential vitamin. A 1-cup serving of cherry tomatoes provides 0.11 milligrams toward these goals. Vitamin B-6 helps your body metabolize protein and supports cognitive development and brain function. The nutrient aids in producing red blood cells and immune function as well.

Vitamin A

A 1-cup serving of cherry tomatoes supplies 63 micrograms of the 700 micrograms of vitamin A women need each day and the 900 micrograms men require on a daily basis. Vitamin A keeps your eyes working properly. You might have an increased resistance to age-related macular degeneration when you get sufficient amounts of vitamin A, according to the National Institutes of Health Office of Dietary Supplements. The vitamin aids your body in producing white blood cells and keeps your heart, lungs and kidneys working properly.

Health Benefits

Cherry tomatoes contain lycopene, an antioxidant that lowers your risk of certain diseases caused by cellular damage. A 2000 article published in the "Canadian Medical Association Journal" notes that lycopene can decrease your risk of cardiovascular disease and cancer. Cherry tomatoes can have more far-reaching health benefits as well. The compounds in cherry tomatoes might offer protection against osteoporosis, skin damage caused by ultraviolet light and brain disorders, according to a 2010 article published in the "American Journal of Lifestyle Medicine."

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