A popular pasta ingredient may control cholesterol and benefit heart health, a doctor says.< br>
Characterized by a sweet yet tangy flavor, tomatoes are more than just a tasty base for a variety of dishes.
A “truly tasty” fruit packed with nutrients such as vitamin C , potassium and folic acid, can also control cholesterol levels,” says nutritionist Nikita Kotelnitsky especially for MedicForum.
The doctor explained that tomatoes also contain a special pigment, lycopene, which is a powerful antioxidant responsible for the fruit's vibrant red color and numerous health benefits.
From reducing the risk of various types of cancer to improving skin health, lycopene has many useful properties. The doctor explained that it can also “improve” your heart health and reduce high cholesterol.
“In a recent review of six studies, researchers found that drinking one to one and a half cups of tomato juice daily for an average of six weeks may reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. Additionally, people who drank tomato juice had lower levels of LDL, or “bad” cholesterol.”
This type of cholesterol is responsible for clogging arteries and increases the risk of serious health problems, from heart disease to stroke. On the other hand, tomatoes have been found to increase levels of HDL cholesterol, also known as the good type.
Effects of Cardiovascular Disease
HDL cholesterol can help absorb LDL cholesterol from the blood and carry it back to the liver, where it is flushed out of the body. What's more, high levels of HDL cholesterol may also reduce your risk of heart disease and stroke.
Although raw tomatoes can increase the level of lycopene in your diet, your doctor recommended opting for juices, sauces made from fresh or canned tomatoes, or even ketchup.< br>
Cooking tomatoes significantly increases the amount of lycopene you can absorb.
“Heat breaks down the thick cell walls of tomatoes, making lycopene and other tomato compounds more available to your body,” explains the nutritionist.
According to the doctor, you should aim for an intake of about 30 milligrams of lycopene.
Important! Information is provided for reference purposes. Ask a specialist about contraindications and side effects and under no circumstances self-medicate. At the first signs of illness, consult a doctor.