Tomato a very versatile vegetable

By Mr. Allah Dad Khan

Tomato and World

Tomato is one of the most widely cultivated crops in the world. It is an important source of vitamins and an important cash crop for smallholders and medium-scale commercial farmers.

Botanical Name

The botanical name for the tomato plant is Lycopersicon esculentum. It is a member of the Solanaceae family, also known as the nightshade family, which includes potatoes, peppers, paprika, petunias, tobacco, and the poisonous belladonna and jimson weed

Names of Tomato

Common names for the tomato are: tomate (Spain, France), tomat (Indonesia), faan ke’e (China), tomati (West Africa), tomatl (Nahuatl), jitomate (Mexico), pomodoro (Italy), nyanya (Swahili).

Origin of tomato

• Tomato is originated in Peru of South America and name of crop came from the Aztec word “Tomato”. The crop is of recent origin and first report of tomato was from Italy in 1544. Later spread was fast and the crop is grown throughout the

length and breadth of world.

History of Tomato

Although tomatoes are closely associated with Italian cuisine, they are actually originally native to the western side of South America. Tomatoes have been grown in Mexico for more than 2,000 years.

The Spanish conquistadors who came to Mexico shortly after Columbus's discovery of the New World "discovered" tomatoes and brought the seeds back to Spain, beginning the introduction of the tomato into Europe.

History of tomato contd

The tomato was eaten by the Aztecs as early as 700 AD and called the “tomatl,” (its name in Nahuatl), and wasn’t grown in Britain until the 1590s. In the early 16th century, Spanish conquistadors returning from expeditions in Mexico and other parts of Mesoamerica were thought to have first introduced the seeds to southern Europe. Some researchers credit Cortez with bringing the seeds to Europe in 1519 for ornamental purposes. Up until the late 1800s in cooler climates, tomatoes were solely grown for ornamental purposes in gardens rather than for eating

History of Tomato contd

After traveling for more than a thousand years, the tomato has now reached six continents and has become the most important processed vegetable in America. The average American consumes more than 23 pounds of processed tomatoes each year. Vine-ripened and processed tomatoes are among the vegetables highest in potassium, vitamins A and C, fiber, lycopene and even protein. After the potato, tomatoes contribute the greatest amount of nutrients to the American diet.

Myth about Tomato

The British thought the tomato was poisonous, but the French called it the “apple of love.” Tomatoes are full of healthy nutrients that help your heart stay strong and can help improve your memory.

Is tomato a fruit or vegetable ?

1. The confusion about 'fruit' and 'vegetable' arises because of the differences in usage between scientists and cooks. Scientifically speaking, a tomato is definitely a fruit. True fruits are developed from the ovary in the base of the flower, and contain the seeds of the plant (though cultivatedforms may be seedless). Blueberries, raspberries, and oranges are true fruits, and so are many kinds of nut. Some plants have a soft part which supports the seeds and is also called a 'fruit',

2. The term 'vegetable' is more generally used of other edible parts of plants, such as cabbage leaves, celery stalks, and potato tubers, which are not strictly the fruit of the plant from which they come.

3. So, the answer to the question is that a tomato is technically the fruit of the tomato plant, but it's used as a vegetable in cooking.

Beifits in General;

• Tomatoes contribute to a healthy, well-balanced diet. They are rich in minerals, vitamins, essential amino acids, sugars and dietary fibres. Tomato contains much vitamin B and C, iron and phosphorus. Tomato fruits are consumed fresh in salads or cooked in sauces, soup and meat or fish dishes. They can be processed into purées, juices and ketchup. Canned and dried tomatoes are economically important processed products.

Advantages of tomato:

1. relatively short duration vegetable crop2. short or long production period3. can be grown as an uncovered field crop and

in protected cultivation 4. fits easily into different cropping systems5. has high economic value6. has high micronutrient content 7. can be processed, dried and canned

Is tomato a fruit or vegetable

1. The question of whether a tomato is a fruit or a vegetable actually made it all the way to the United States Supreme Court! In the 1893 case of Nix v. Hedden, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that, for purposes of the Tariff Act of March 3, 1883, tomatoes are vegetables.

2. The Supreme Court relied on the fact that tomatoes are usually used as vegetables since they’re normally served with dinner and not dessert.

Colourful History

1. At first it was thought to be poisonous and was grown as a decorative garden shrub. Although a member of the nightshade family, with strongly aromatic leaves and stems that are toxic, the fruit proved to be completely harmless.

2. Likely this newcomer to Europe was yellow, since the Italians called it pomodoro(golden apple). The English called it tomate and later tomato, but the term “love apple” also became fashionable. From Europe the tomato made the long journey back across the Atlantic to North America, where eventually, during the 19th century, it became an important food.

Nutritive Values of Tomato : Per 100 gm.

1) Vitamin A : 1,000 I.U.2) Vitamin B : Thiamine .06 mg.;3) Vitamin C : 23 mg.4) Vitamin K : amount uncertain5) Calcium : 11 mg.6) Iron : .6 mg.7) Phosphorus : 27 mg.8) Potassium : 360 mg.9) Protein : 1.0 gm.10) Calories : 20

Health benefits of tomato

1. Tomatoes help lower cholesterol Since a tomato has 0 grams of cholesterol, it doesn’t add cholesterol to the

diet. Plus, a cup of fresh tomato provides 9% of the DV for fiber, which has been shown to lower high cholesterol levels.

2. Tomatoes reduce the risk of heart disease

• Tomatoes are a very good source of potassium. Diets rich in potassium have been shown to lower high blood pressure and reduce the risk of heart disease. Vitamin B6 and folate, each present in tomatoes in good amounts, are both needed by the body to convert a potentially dangerous chemical called homocysteine into other, benign molecules. High levels of homocysteine can directly damage blood vessel walls and are associated with an increased risk of heart attack and stroke.

3. Tomatoes manages blood pressure

• In order to lower blood pressure you have to get lower sodium amount. High sodium consumption will increase blood pressure. Instead, high potassium consumption will help you decrease risk of drying due to blood pressure about 20 %.

4. Tomatoes provide antioxidant protection from cell damage

Tomatoes are an outstanding source of the antioxidant lycopene. Antioxidants travel through the body, neutralizing dangerous free radicals that could otherwise damage cells and cell membranes. Free radicals escalate the progression or severity of atherosclerosis, diabetic complications, asthma, and colon cancer. High intakes of lycopene have been shown to help reduce the risk or severity of all of these illnesses.

5. Tomatoes protect the prostate

Studies show that eating tomatoes reduce the risk of many cancers, and prostate cancer in particular

6. Tomato as flavonoid

Zea-xanthin is another flavonoid compound present abundantly in this vegetable. Zea-xanthin helps protect eyes from "age-related macular related macular disease" (ARMD) in the elderly persons by filtering harmful ultra-violet rays.

7. Tomatoes help regulate blood sugar

Tomatoes are a good source of chromium, which has been shown to help diabetic patients keep their blood sugar levels under control

8. Tomatoes counteract acidosis

Acidosis, according to the medical community, is a common cause of calcium loss, fatigue, headaches, sleeplessness, muscle aches, acne, eczema, arteriosclerosis, sexual dysfunction, hormone imbalance,

depression, and many degenerative conditions.

9. Tomatoes help reduce migraines

Tomatoes are a good source of riboflavin, which has been shown to be helpful for reducing the frequency of migraine attacks.

10. Tomatoes boost immunity

Tomatoes have been credited by experts with helping to avoid flu and colds, especially for males. According to the medical community, these common illnesses are widely believed to be rooted in carotenoid deficiencies, including low amounts of lycopene and beta carotene in a patient’s system. Drinking tomato juices assists in building defenses against colds and flu.

11. Tomatoes provide natural sunscreen

Researchers at the University of Dusseldorf (Germany) observed subjects who consumed tomato paste for a minimum of 10 weeks. Absorption of UV rays was 40% lower than subjects in the control group, showing lycopene in tomatoes works as a natural sunscreen and provide protection against UV rays

12. Tomatoes strengthen bones

The vitamin K and calcium in tomatoes are both very good for strengthening and repairing bones. Vitamin K in tomatoes helps osteocalcin does its work to harden calcium and make bones strong. To fight osteoporosis (a common disease due to low bone mass) Lycopene in tomatoes helps a great way. Osteoporosis that results in a significantly increased risk of bone fracture and disability in older people can be preventing by consuming high amount of tomatoes.

13. Tomatoes improve vision

Vitamin A is essential to maintaining the health of the retina. Its deficiency contributes to the development of night blindness. A one cup serving of fresh tomatoes provides 30% DV of vitamin A, a high concentration which prevents necessary shortage and promotes eye health

14.Tomato Maintain Nutrition :

A single tomato can provide about 40% of the daily vitamin C requirement. Vitamin C is a natural antioxidant which prevents against cancer-causing free radicals from damaging the body’s systems. It also contains abundant vitamin A and potassium, as well as iron. Potassium plays a vital role in maintaining nerve health and iron is essential for maintaining normal blood health. Vitamin K, which is essential in blood clotting and controls bleeding, is also abundant in tomatoe

15.Tomato Counters the Effect of Cigarette Smoke:

The two main components of tomatoes, coumaric acid and chlorogenic acid, fight against nitrosamines which are produced in the body and are the main carcinogens found in cigarettes. The presence of vitamin A in such high quantities has also been shown to reduce the effects of carcinogens and can protect you against lung cancer

16. Tomato Digestive Health:

Tomatoes can help you fight risk of constipation. Fiber and water in tomatoes will improve your digestive system and can combat diarrhea very well. Additionally, tomatoes can support your body to remove toxins and adjust bowel movements in your body. You can add tomatoes in salad, sandwiches, and other recipes to get the

best results.

17.Tomato Manages Diabetes:

Tomatoes are packed full of the valuable mineral known as chromium. It works effectively to help diabetics keep their blood sugar levels under better control. Daily consumption of tomatoes reduces the oxidative stress in type 2 diabetes.

18. Tomatoes benefits Healthy Skin: Tomatoes aid in maintaining healthy teeth, bones, hair and skin. Topical

application of tomato juice is even known to cure severe sunburns. Daily consumption of tomatoes protects the skin against UV-induced erythema. Tomatoes rank high in the preparation of anti-aging products.

19.Tomato Prevents Urinary Tract Infections:

Tomato intake also reduces the incidence ofurinary tract infections, as well as bladder cancer. This is because tomatoes are high in water content, which can stimulate urination, so tomatoes are a diuretic in certain ways. This increases the elimination of toxins from the body, as well as excess water, salts, uric acid, and some fat as well

20.Tomato prevent cancer

Lycopene is considered somewhat of a natural miracle anti-oxidant that may help to stop the growth of cancer cells. lycopene in tomatoes, helps to lessen the chances of prostate cancer, stomach cancer and colorectal cancer. Vitamin C in tomatoes is a natural antioxidant which acts against cancer-causing free radicals

21.Tomato Reduces Depression

Do you believe that stress reduction is one of the best benefits of tomatoes? That is true. Tomatoes contain folic acid that can prevent the homocyteine production and protect your brain, as well as prevent blood. Tomatoes are high in antioxidants and can combat several cancer forms.

22.Tomatoes prevent thrombosis

If you are wondering benefits of tomatoes, you should read this information. Drinking 8 ounces of tomato juice will lower platelet aggregation. To prevent thrombosis, you should intake low sodium tomato

juice.

23. Tomatoes fight inflammation

If you really want to avoid inflammation, keep drinking a glass of tomato juice per day. Tomatoes not only help you prevent other harmful diseases such as cancer, heart diseases, digestion problems, but they also help you fight inflammation in your body due to different dangerous conditions.

24. Tomato Reduce Asthma

• Vitamin A and lycopene in tomatoes can reduce the asthma symptoms. If you are getting asthma condition, you should add tomatoes in your daily meals immediately. Tomato recipes are also very healthy and delicious.

25. Tomato adds hair shiness

Tomatoes will even make your hair look better.The vitamin A found in tomatoes works to make hair strong and shiny. (Sorry, tomatoes cannot help much with thinning hair—but they will make the hair you have look better!)

26. Tomato prevent Chronic Pain

1. Tomatoes can reduce chronic pain. If you are one of the millions of people who deal with mild to moderate chronic pain (such as from arthritis or back pain), tomatoes may be a pain-buster. Tomatoes are high in bioflavonoids and carotenoids, which are known anti-inflammatory agents.

2. Chronic pain often involves chronic inflammation, so attacking the inflammation is a good way to fight the chronic pain. (Many commercial drugs that fight pain are actually anti-inflammatory drugs.)

27. Tomatoes can help reduce weight

Tomatoes can help you lose weight. If you are on a sensible diet and exercise plan, build lots of tomatoes into your everyday eating. They make a great snack and can be used to “bulk up” salads, casseroles, sandwiches and other meals. Because tomatoes contain lots of water and fiber, they are what Weight Watchers calls a “filling food,” one of those foods that fills you up fast without adding a lot of calories or fat.

28.Tomato Colorectal Cancer

Beta-carotene consumption has been shown to have aninverse association with the development of colon cancer in the Japanese population. High fiber intakes from fruits and vegetables are associated with a lowered risk of colorectal cancer.

29.Tomato and pregnancy

• Pregnancy: Adequate folic acid intake is essential for pregnant women to protect against neural tube defects in infants.

30.Tomato are the naturally enhance flavour

• Tomatoes can enhance the flavor of almost any cooked dish. Whole tomatoes, chopped tomatoes and tomato sauce freeze well for future use in cooked dishes. Cooking tomatoes — such as in spaghetti sauce — makes the fruit heart-healthier and boosts its cancer-fighting ability.

31. Potato Reduces danger of statin drugs

• Recent evidence shows that just two ounces of tomato paste or a pint of juice a day could be enough to help many patients avoid dangerous statins, the class of drugs commonly prescribed for these conditions, which can lead to heart problems.

32. Tomatoes prevent kidney and gall bladder stones

They work as a disinfectant to protect the body from diarrhea and prevents the appearance of kidney stones and gall bladder stones in the long term. They also dramatically reduce the incidence of lower urinary tract symptoms.

33. Tomatoes reduces breast cancer risk

Breast cancer can also be reduced with tomatoes. Exciting research in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute shows that higher amounts of carotenoids including alpha-carotene, beta-carotene, lutein, zeaxanthin, lycopene, and total carotenoids may have a reduced risk of breast cancer.

34. Tomatoes prevent stroke

New research in the journal Harvard Health Letter found that diets rich in tomatoes can help prevent stroke. The scientists chalk up the results to tomatoes’ rich lycopene content.

35. Tomato reduces blood clot risks

Tomato juice helps to reduce the risk of blood clots. The excessive clumping together of platelet cells can cause problems for our bloodstream in terms of blockage and unwanted clotting, and prevention of this excessive clumping is important for maintaining heart health. Numerous phytonutrients in tomatoes have been shown to help prevent excessive clumping of our platelet cells.