Tomatoes: benefits and harm to the body

Tomatoes are a common product that is great for making salads. Also, pasta, juice, and marinate are prepared from it. There are many different recipes with tomatoes, which are very popular among housewives. This is due to the fact that tomatoes are useful for the body, as they contain many vitamins and minerals.

Which tomatoes are healthier: red or yellow

Many varieties of tomatoes are distinguished, which vary in taste and color. Many are interested in which vegetables are healthier - red or yellow. They differ not only in taste, but also in their composition. Experts say that it is yellow tomatoes that significantly exceed red ones for the benefit to the body. First of all, they include retinol, which is necessary for the operation of the visual apparatus. Therefore, yellow tomatoes cause allergies in rare cases. They can be introduced into the child’s diet before the reds. Yellow tomatoes have fewer calories. The product also strengthens the vascular walls.

Thus, yellow tomatoes are considered healthier than red ones. But both varieties will bring invaluable benefits to the body.

Composition and calorie content

The chemical composition of tomatoes, depending on the variety, varies. But they all contain many amino acids. The composition of tomatoes includes the following trace elements:

1. Magnesium. Useful for the work of the heart muscle and blood vessels. Also involved in the structure of muscle tissue. Lack of substance leads to convulsions of the hands and feet.
2. Calcium. The trace element is necessary for both adults and children. This is due to the fact that it is involved in the structure of bone tissue.
3. Iodine. It is required in large quantities by the endocrine system, which synthesizes a huge number of hormones that regulate the work of the whole organism.
4. Fluorine. A trace element that refers to neurotoxins. It neutralizes harmful substances. In addition, it is a component of tooth enamel.
5. Potassium. The substance plays a rather large role in the human body. Potassium is involved in the work of systems such as excretory, cardiovascular, and is part of the bones and muscle tissue.

Tomatoes also include zinc, copper and phosphorus in small quantities. They also take part in the functioning of certain organs, body systems.

Tomatoes also contain vitamins, among which:

1. Vitamin C. According to the study, it was found that tomatoes significantly exceed citrus fruits in terms of vitamin C. It plays a significant role in the body's defenses.
2. Vitamin A. Participates in cell metabolism, maintains youthful skin, and is also necessary for the visual apparatus. Its deficiency leads to visual impairment.
3. Vitamin B2. The trace element takes part in almost all body processes, including supporting the functioning of the nervous system. With vitamin deficiency, a person develops a depressive state.
4. Vitamin B3. It allows you to maintain healthy skin, and is also an integral part of the hair. Helps strengthen the immune system and maintain the nervous system.

Also, other B vitamins are part of the tomatoes. All of them have their own significance for the body, fulfill their function. Due to the high content of vitamins, tomatoes are used in folk medicine as well as cosmetology.

The calorie content of the product is only 20 kcal per 100 g. This allows you to include tomatoes in the diet, subject to even strict diets aimed at losing weight. They can be consumed by those who monitor their weight and do not allow the use of high-calorie foods.

What are tomatoes good for?

General benefit

Tomatoes, when used properly, benefit the body. Due to their composition, they allow:

1. Strengthen the heart muscle, as it contains a sufficient amount of calcium. As a result, the likelihood of developing myocardial diseases decreases.
2. Increase immunity due to the increased content of vitamins.
3. Activate the production of gastric juice, resulting in improved digestion.
4. Reduce the risk of anemia, as tomatoes contain iron, necessary for the process of blood formation.
5. Improve perilstatic, thereby reducing the risk of constipation.
6. Stop the inflammatory process in organs and tissues.
7. Have a positive effect on the quality of seminal fluid.
8. Normalize blood pressure.
9. To clear the walls of blood vessels of cholesterol, which accumulates and becomes the cause of narrowing of the lumen. The result of this process is impaired circulation and an increased risk of stroke.
10. Reduce blood viscosity.
11. Cleanse the liver of toxins and other harmful substances.
12. Get rid of the unpleasant symptoms of varicose veins. The substances included in the composition will help reduce pain in the vessels, normalize blood circulation in the lower extremities.
13. Improve overall well-being and cheer up. This is achieved by containing tyramine in tomatoes.
14. Clear the lungs. That is why tomatoes are recommended for daily use to those who quit or are about to quit smoking.
15. Reduce the risk of Alzheimer's in older people.
16. Prevent the development of diseases of the nervous system.
17. Maintain youth and healthy skin.
18. Reduce the likelihood of developing osteoporosis and other diseases of the musculoskeletal system.

Also, daily use of tomatoes in various forms and in small quantities will help to maintain hearing and vision, since tomatoes contain all the trace elements and vitamins necessary for the operation of these systems.

For women

During menopause, the risk of developing a disease such as osteoporosis increases. Eating tomatoes will reduce the likelihood of their occurrence.

Among other things, tomatoes will eliminate the set of extra pounds, save the figure. The substances included in the composition will also help preserve the youth of the skin, slow down the aging process, and restore shine to the hair.

For men

Eating tomatoes will benefit the male body. First of all, they help to slow down age-related changes occurring in the prostate, which can cause the development of adenoma.

Also, tomatoes contain special substances that help reduce the risk of cancer in various tissues and organs. Tomatoes are known to contain a substance called lycopene. It strengthens male power.

During pregnancy

At a time when a woman is waiting for a baby, it is important for her to eat right. Experts recommend that you include tomatoes in any form in your diet, as they contain a large number of substances necessary for the development of the child.

First of all, tomatoes contain calcium, which is involved in the formation of the musculoskeletal system. Iron will prevent the occurrence of anemia.

Vitamin C, contained in tomatoes in sufficient quantities, will protect the future mother's body from colds and flu.

When breastfeeding

Experts say that tomatoes contribute to lactation. That is why they need to be used when breastfeeding. In addition, the product contains a large number of vitamins and minerals that are necessary for a woman after childbirth and the baby for normal development.

Tomatoes should be introduced gradually, starting with a small portion. They rarely cause allergies, but the baby’s reaction should be monitored throughout the day. In the case when there are no unpleasant symptoms, the portion can be increased.

For children

The child's body requires a lot of vitamins and minerals, as it grows and develops. It is tomatoes that differ not only in their diverse composition, but also in a sufficient concentration of substances.

If the child has no contraindications, tomatoes must be included in his diet. They will strengthen immunity, activate the digestive system, restore the emotional state, remove toxins.

Introducing tomatoes into the diet should not be earlier than the baby turns one year old, since tomatoes are highly allergenic products.

Can I eat tomatoes while losing weight

Nutritionists recommend including tomatoes in the diet, not only because they are low-calorie. There are several more reasons why they should be used when losing weight:

1. Contribute to the breakdown of fat cells due to the presence of lycopene.
2. Suppress appetite. Even a small amount of tomatoes will help satisfy hunger for a long time due to the content of chromium.
3. They support immunity, which can be impaired by following a strict diet.

Do not use the product with sour cream with a high percentage of fat or mayonnaise. This will negatively affect the figure and only add a few pounds.

Experts advise daily to drink a glass of tomato juice to support the figure.

The benefits of dried and dried tomatoes

A product such as tomatoes is dried and dried. They are as healthy as fresh vegetables. Drying is carried out in the sun or in a special electric dryer.

The main advantage of sun-dried tomatoes is that they have a sufficiently high concentration of nutrients. In the drying process, they are not split, but are completely preserved.

They also contain fiber, which helps digestion. Sun-dried tomatoes can support the work of the heart muscle, strengthen blood vessels. Traditional healers argue that such a product may well be used by people suffering from hypertension.

Dried tomatoes, like fresh ones, are considered a dietary product. But they should not be consumed in the presence of high acidity of the stomach, diseases of the liver, pancreas, since their use can harm the body.

What are the benefits of salted tomatoes

It is impossible to keep tomatoes fresh for a long time. One of the popular storage methods during the winter is salting. At the same time, all mineral substances and vitamins are also preserved. Salted tomatoes are considered a dietary product, as they have a low calorie content.

But it is not recommended to use them in the presence of diseases of the digestive system, since the spices, salt and sugar included in the composition negatively affect the state of the gastric mucosa. Otherwise, salted tomatoes have the same beneficial properties as fresh ones. Most of the substances are preserved.

The benefits of cherry tomatoes

A tomato variety like cherry is small in size. They have a sweeter taste. In addition, to keep fresh such tomatoes is much easier.

Despite its size, the chemical composition of the product does not differ from other varieties. In addition, they contain a greater amount of glucose and vitamins, including vitamin A. Thus, cherry tomatoes will bring great benefit to vision and immunity.

Is tomato and cucumber salad good for you?

One of the most popular dishes is a salad consisting of fresh cucumbers and tomatoes. You can cook it quite simply and quickly. The dish is distinguished by its huge content of vitamins and minerals, since cucumbers also belong to products that include useful trace elements. The combination of cucumbers and tomatoes can significantly increase immunity, has a positive effect on the condition of the gastric mucosa.

You can get a special taste if you add a small amount of herbs and onions. This will make the dishes several times more healthy. Salad can be introduced into the diet subject to a diet for weight loss, as the calorie content of cucumbers is only 17 kcal per 100 g. At the same time, it is better to season it with olive oil or lemon juice.

Thus, a salad consisting of tomatoes and cucumbers is not only useful, but also helps to maintain a figure and will cheer you up.

Pickled tomatoes: benefits and harms

Pickled tomatoes are also good for the body. This is due to the fact that they contain an antioxidant called lycopene. It is he who is considered the main element to reduce the risk of developing heart disease. In addition, it helps to slow down the formation of cancerous tumors in various tissues and organs. Lycopene supports the functioning of the nervous system, helping a person to cope with stress and nervous strain.

Pickled tomatoes help remove cholesterol. The substance in large quantities is dangerous for the body, as it tends to accumulate on the walls of blood vessels and impair blood circulation. Pickled tomatoes also contain beta-carotene, which is necessary for maintaining vision.

The substances included in the product also allow you to remove toxins, including alcohol breakdown products, and cope with a hangover. That is why pickled tomatoes are popular at feasts.

But they can also harm the body. Tomatoes marinated in their own juice should not be consumed in large quantities by people suffering from high acidity and diseases of the digestive system. Refuse them should be in the event of pronounced symptoms of ulcers and gastritis.

Useful properties of tomato juice

Juice obtained from tomatoes also has a number of useful properties. It contains as many vitamins and minerals as fresh tomatoes. The special, beneficial properties of the drink include:

1. Maintaining immunity, since vitamin C is present in the composition
2. Activation of the brain due to the content of a number of trace elements and glucose.
3. Weight maintenance. Juice has a low calorie content and can be included in the daily diet for weight loss.
4. Reducing the risk of digestive system diseases. The drink has an enveloping effect, which protects the mucous membrane of the digestive system from negative effects.
5. Improving mood due to the content of trace elements that affect the functioning of the nervous system.
6. Maintaining youthful skin.

This is an incomplete list of the beneficial properties of tomato juice. It has the same effect on the body as fresh tomatoes.

Is tomato paste good for you?

A product such as tomato paste is used in cooking. Many are interested in the question of whether there is any benefit from it. Pasta made from tomatoes will certainly benefit the body. It contains the same substances and trace elements as in fresh tomatoes. Experts recommend giving preference to tomato paste and use it instead of ketchup, as it contains fewer spices that adversely affect the condition of the stomach.

Thus, tomato paste will help not only give the dish a special taste and aroma, but also replenish the supply of vitamins, trace elements and nutrients in the body.

Tomatoes in medicine

Tomatoes are used not only in cooking for preparing a variety of dishes. They are also used for medical purposes as an additional method of treatment of certain diseases. Traditional healers recommend introducing them into the diet with the following pathologies:

1. Avitaminosis. The condition can be dangerous for the human body, as it manifests itself in the form of a lack of vitamins. They are necessary for the work of the body's defenses. It is in tomatoes that contain a large number of useful substances. With vitamin deficiency, tomatoes can be consumed both fresh and salted, pickled.
2. Atherosclerosis. It is characterized by the formation of cholesterol plaques, which gradually narrow the lumen of the vessels, resulting in poor blood circulation. This can lead to disruption of the heart system. One of the causes of the disease is malnutrition. Tomatoes contain substances that help remove cholesterol from the body and reduce the risk of heart attack.
3. Anemia. It appears as a lack of iron. Tomatoes contain a sufficient amount of this element, which brings invaluable benefits to the body, especially during pregnancy and lactation.
4. Type 1 or type 2 diabetes. The composition of tomatoes contains such a substance as lycopene. It helps to lower blood glucose and restore metabolic processes.
5. Constipation. Such a delicate violation, like constipation, can adversely affect the general condition. Eating tomatoes in any form will help to cope with the stagnant process in the intestines.
6. Crayfish. Pathologically altered cells begin to grow and form a tumor in the case when, with reduced immunity, the number of free radicals increases. Included in tomatoes, lycopene has an antioxidant property and will help reduce the risk of cancer.

Tomatoes are included in any diet that is prescribed to patients with various diseases. It has virtually no contraindications and has a positive effect on the body.

With diabetes

Diabetes occurs for several reasons. But in any case, it manifests itself in the form of the body's inability to process glucose. Its increased amount leads to the development of dangerous conditions, including diabetic coma.

Also, in the presence of diabetes mellitus, there is a violation of other metabolic processes, which tomato will help normalize. Its constituents contribute to the elimination of cholesterol, the normalization of digestion. But experts recommend caution in patients with the first type of diabetes. This is due to the fact that the use of the product increases the production of bile, which negatively affects the state of the pancreas.

In the presence of the second type of disease, only fresh tomatoes can be present in the diet. It is better to refuse canned and salted.

Important: glycemic index of tomatoes from 15 to 40 units.

With pancreatitis

With established pancreatitis, experts recommend eating only tomatoes that have previously been peeled. It should be removed even in the absence of severe symptoms, when the disease is in remission.

It is also best to combine tomatoes with other products. In the case when pancreatitis is accompanied by increased acidity, no more than 100 g of product can be eaten per day. If the acidity is reduced, the portion can be up to 300 g per day.

With gastritis

Gastritis is an inflammatory disease in which a number of drugs are prescribed to a patient. Nutrition is also important for maintaining a long period of remission.

In the diet, in the case of gastritis, tomatoes may be present, but they should be consumed in a small amount, after peeling.The daily rate may not exceed 200 g of tomatoes. Pickled, salted tomatoes are forbidden to eat, as they have a negative effect on the gastric mucosa and can lead to ulcers.

For the intestines

The presence of tomatoes in the diet benefits the intestines. The substances that make up the product support its work, metabolic processes and help in removing cholesterol.

Thus, tomatoes are good for intestinal health. They also improve motility, which reduces the risk of stagnant processes.

For constipation

Constipation is a common problem, especially in women during pregnancy and after giving birth. It occurs as a result of deterioration of the intestines and the appearance of a stagnant process. Constipation adversely affects the general condition of the patient and requires immediate action.

Not always getting rid of this delicate problem requires the use of drugs. This can be done by normalizing nutrition. Experts recommend introducing more fresh vegetables, including tomatoes, into the diet. The content of certain substances in them helps to improve digestion and eliminate a problem such as constipation.

With gout

In the case when gout is established, products containing oxalic acid are prohibited. These include tomatoes. But the acid content in them is so low that it does not affect the patient's condition and does not interfere with the process of excretion of uric acid, which accumulates in the joints with gout.

In addition, tomatoes contain enough minerals and vitamins that help strengthen immunity, maintain other processes in the body. Therefore, it is necessary to use tomatoes with gout, but in moderation, without abusing them. Experts advise to give preference to tomatoes that have undergone heat treatment, for example, sauces based on them, vegetable stews and other dishes.

With colitis

The disease occurs as a result of inflammation of the intestinal mucosa. As a result, unpleasant symptoms such as pain, digestion and others occur.

In addition to taking medications, proper nutrition is also recommended. Only fresh peeled tomatoes should be present in the patients ’diet. Due to its properties, the product will help protect the intestinal mucosa from the negative effects of a number of factors.

For the liver

Tomatoes for the liver will be invaluable. This is due to the fact that it is this body that takes on a larger number of harmful substances that have a negative effect.

Regular consumption of tomatoes will help remove all toxins from the body and reduce the load on the liver. In addition, pickled tomatoes help to neutralize harmful substances, including alcohol breakdown products. For this reason, the product is used after drinking alcohol. It allows you to normalize the general condition and relieve a hangover.

With hemorrhoids

One of the common problems of people leading a sedentary lifestyle is hemorrhoids. When symptoms appear, specialists prescribe medication. Proper nutrition is also important.

With the development of the disease, tomatoes should be present in the diet, as they help relieve inflammation, have an enveloping property and normalize the digestion process.

With cholecystitis

In the case of the spread of the inflammatory process on the tissues of the gallbladder, tomatoes will also help to cope with unpleasant symptoms. But they should be consumed in moderation.

The substances included in the composition contribute to the normalization of bile production and metabolic processes. It is recommended to consume no more than 100 g of fresh tomatoes per day.

Tomatoes in cosmetology

Thanks to the vitamins and microelements which are a part, tomatoes began to be used also for cosmetic purposes. They are part of many masks for hair and skin.

For face

Tomatoes that are used to make masks should not be scalded with boiling water, as heat treatment will reduce the amount of nutrients and trace elements. The tool will not be effective enough in the fight against certain skin problems.

There are many recipes that are aimed at improving the condition of the skin and eliminating certain problems. It is important to observe the proportions and rules of use. The most popular are these masks:

1. To improve the color. Before preparing the mask, the tomatoes are peeled. You can do this by cutting the vegetables in half and taking out the flesh with a wooden spoon. Chop the pulp, add a tablespoon of oatmeal and a small spoon of lemon juice. Mix everything until smooth. Apply the mask to the face and leave for 10 minutes. Then rinse with warm water.
2. From acne. This is one of the easiest mask recipes. It is made only with the help of tomatoes, previously sliced ​​into circles. Apply them to the skin of the face and hold for 10-15 minutes. In the process, juice is released, which after the procedure must be washed off with warm water. Masks are recommended for a week to get a positive result.
3. Restorative. For cooking, you need three tablespoons of milk powder, a glass of oatmeal and chopped peeled tomatoes. Mix all the ingredients. In the case when it turned out to be thick, you can add a small amount of boiling water. Apply everything to the face for 40 minutes, then rinse.
4. From oily sheen. The pulp of tomatoes needs to be mixed with two tablespoons of potato flour. The consistency of the mask should resemble paste. Apply to the skin of the face, rinse after 10 minutes.
5. Anti-aging. Peel and chop the tomato. Add a spoonful of honey and yogurt without additives. Wash with warm water before use. Apply the mask for half an hour, then rinse. After the procedure, use a moisturizer.

All tomato-based masks help you cope with certain facial skin problems. After their application, the effect is noticeable after a week.

For hair

Tomatoes are used in cosmetology and to restore the structure of hair. They allow you to restore their shine, silkiness, softness. The most effective masks are:

1. For growth. The mask consists of the following ingredients: half a tomato, a clove of garlic, lemon juice in the amount of a teaspoon and bell pepper. Grind all components with a blender. Apply the resulting mask with rubbing movements to the hair roots and leave for 40 minutes. After rinse off. The mask helps to activate the growth of hair follicles, and also helps strengthen hair.
2. Nutritious. To prepare, you will need a tomato, previously peeled, a small spoon of olive oil and a tablespoon of starch. Mash the tomato until mashed, add starch and oil. Mix everything and distribute along the entire length of the hair. Then wrap the hair with polyethylene and cover with a towel. Wash off after half an hour. Such a tool will help restore hair shine and make them soft.
3. Against fat. To prepare an effective anti-oily scalp, 1.5–2 tomatoes and half a teaspoon of lemon juice will be needed. Mash the tomatoes, previously peeled, into a pulp and add lemon juice. Stir everything. Apply the composition to the hair, leave for half an hour, and then rinse with shampoo.

Masks can be used with every shampoo. After their application, a result is already noticeable in a week. Hair becomes soft, docile, its structure is restored, healthy shine is restored.

Harm and contraindications

Despite the fact that tomatoes are one of the most useful vegetables, they can harm the body if used improperly or if they are used if there are contraindications.

The harm of tomatoes is as follows:

1. The product contains many trace elements, which are a whole complex. Certain substances can cause a negative reaction of the body. It manifests itself in the form of a rash, hives, redness. The most dangerous condition that can occur in the presence of allergies is Quincke's edema. When it occurs, a person needs urgent medical attention.
2. There is a risk of hypervitaminosis. It is characterized by a high content of vitamins, which manifests itself in the form of rashes and itching.
3. A large number of tomatoes can provoke exacerbation of hypertension. The danger in this case is pickled tomatoes, since the product contains a sufficient amount of vinegar and salt.
4. In tomatoes, oxalic acid is present, which is contraindicated in patients suffering from diseases of the genitourinary system of the chronic type. This is due to the fact that the substance prevents the excretion of salts, which provokes an exacerbation. Also, experts advise caution when eating tomatoes in case of stones in the kidneys or bladder.
5. Tomatoes, due to their properties, activate the production of bile. A similar property can adversely affect the patient's condition in the presence of urolithiasis.
6. With arthritis, tomatoes can also cause deterioration. Use them only in the period of remission with caution.
7. Tomatoes are not recommended in case of ulcers and pancreatitis occurring in the acute stage.

Do not overeat tomatoes, since as a result of the presence of certain substances a large number of them can provoke diarrhea. Tomatoes are not recommended for high acidity. In this case, they are best replaced with dried ones.

According to nutritionists, tomatoes do not need to be eaten with baked goods, rice, eggs and fish. This is due to the fact that such a combination negatively affects metabolic processes and slows down the synthesis of fats. All this leads to weight gain, the formation of cholesterol plaques on the vascular walls.

How to choose and store tomatoes

When buying tomatoes, it is important to pay attention to several factors at once:

1. Colour. The tomato should have a uniform bright red or yellow color without spots. This indicates the ripeness of the product.
2. The size. The large size of the fruit does not mean that it contains more vitamins and minerals. When choosing, it is best to prefer medium-sized tomatoes. Cherry tomatoes will also benefit the body. Despite their size, they contain a greater amount of vitamin C.
3. The aroma. Ripe tomatoes should have a pleasant smell.

Also, when buying, you should pay attention to the presence of damage. They should not be on the surface of the vegetable. Pathogenic microorganisms accumulate in them, and tomatoes begin to deteriorate faster.

To the touch, the tomato should be sufficiently elastic, but not hard. If the fruit is soft, this indicates that the process of decay has begun. Such a tomato is a danger to the body.

Tomatoes are not stored in the refrigerator, because in cold air they lose their aroma and taste. They can be left at room temperature, but not under the influence of sunlight. This is due to the fact that ultraviolet light will destroy all useful trace elements, and the tomato will quickly deteriorate.

Is it possible to freeze

Many housewives are interested in whether tomatoes can be frozen. Freezing is one of the methods of storing vegetables.

You can store in a freezer both cut tomatoes and cherry tomatoes in general. Pre-whole fruits are recommended to be pierced with a toothpick. So they will not burst.

How to eat tomatoes

Tomatoes should be consumed correctly, since excessive consumption of them will cause digestive disorders, which manifests itself in the form of diarrhea.

How much can you eat per day

The daily rate of tomatoes depends on many factors. In the presence of chronic intestinal diseases, you should not exceed the norm of 200 g per day.

If there are no diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, you can increase the norm to 300 g per day. But it is important not to abuse tomatoes, as they contain a large amount of vitamins and minerals, which can provoke hypervitaminosis.

Can I eat at night and on an empty stomach

Tomatoes are very popular in diet due to the low calorie content. That is why they can be eaten at night and in the morning on an empty stomach.

Despite the fact that they have very few calories, they will help to increase strength and reduce the feeling of hunger. Thus, tomatoes are perfect for a light snack, even before going to bed. But it is important to use them no earlier than two hours before bedtime. This is due to the fact that right after eating you can’t go to bed, because the stomach is still working.

Is it possible to eat green tomatoes

Today you can find many recipes for salads and spins based on green tomatoes. But they should be used with caution, since they contain a greater amount of solanine. This substance is harmful to the body and can cause harm.

Before using green tomatoes for making salads or spins, they should be blanched in several entries. Only in this way can a certain amount of hazardous substance be removed.

But such tomatoes are not always harmful. They cope well with the unpleasant signs of varicose veins. At the same time, they can both be eaten, and compresses can be made from them. Cut the tomatoes into circles and attach to the areas where the disease manifests. Fix them with a bandage or cling film. Compresses to remove after 2-3 hours.

Is it possible to eat sprouted tomatoes

Such vegetables can also be dangerous to the body. The fact is that they also contain solanine in large quantities. Experts recommend giving up such a product and not eating it.

Is it possible to eat tomatoes with late blight

Phytophthora is a plant disease caused by pathogenic microorganisms. These are parasites that appear on plants and take away all the nutrients. It is forbidden to eat such tomatoes. First of all, in such vegetables there are practically no trace elements or nutrients. Also late blight is capable of harming the human body, causing digestion.

Thus, the affected fruits must be discarded. Eating them is strictly prohibited.

What can be cooked from tomatoes: recipes

Based on tomatoes, today you can find many recipes. They make not only salads, but also make adjika, ketchup, pasta and other dishes. All of them are good for the body, quite tasty and fragrant. When cooking, it is important to observe the technology and quantity of ingredients.

Lecho

The dish is very popular. It can be stored for a long time. The most popular recipes:

Sweet pepper and tomato lecho
The following ingredients will be required for preparation:

• granulated sugar in an amount of 100 g;
• half a glass of vegetable oil;
• 2 kg tomato;
• 2 large tablespoons of salt;
• 3 kg of sweet bell pepper;
• tablespoon of vinegar 9%;
• a few peas of black pepper.

Wash and mashed tomatoes. This can be done using a blender or meat grinder. Put the mass in a pan, add oil, add sugar. Place the container on the stove, bring to a boil. Cook for 20 minutes.

Wash bell peppers, cut into strips and put in a pan. Cover it and cook for another 20 minutes. 5-7 minutes before the end of cooking add vinegar and peas. It can be decomposed into previously sterilized banks. Sterilization is carried out both in a water bath and in the oven. Close everything tightly with lids, allow to cool and remove for storage in a cool place.

With zucchini
It is also good for health, has a unique taste. To cook it, you will need:

• 1.5 kg of sweet pepper;
• 1.5 kg of squash;
• 2 kg of tomatoes;
• a glass of vegetable oil;
• 100 g of granulated sugar;
• a pair of garlic cloves;
• 100 ml apple cider vinegar;
• 2 tablespoons of salt.

Wash the zucchini and pepper, cut into cubes. Tomatoes turn into mashed potatoes, pour into a pan, bring to a boil. After 5 minutes of cooking, add the pre-chopped vegetables, boil again.

After the mass has boiled, add vegetable oil, salt and sugar. Cover and cook for 10 minutes. Add garlic, vinegar and leave for five minutes. Put everything in banks.

Adjika

This is a rather spicy seasoning, which is prepared from tomatoes, red pepper, salt and garlic. It is a fragrant paste. It goes well with meat and fish dishes.

Classic adjika is prepared according to the following recipe: You will need 2.5 kg of tomatoes, a pound of sweet pepper, 150 g of garlic, 3 pieces of chili pepper, 100 g of sugar, 50 ml of vegetable oil, 25 ml of vinegar and half a tablespoon of salt.

Wash the tomatoes, cut into two halves and scroll through a meat grinder. Pour the mass thus obtained into a pan and evaporate all excess moisture. To accelerate this process, it is recommended to pre-squeeze the mass with gauze.

Wash, peel and roll the pepper through a meat grinder. Add it to the tomatoes. Also add granulated sugar, vegetable oil, salt. Boil for half an hour. Before removing the pan from the heat, add vinegar and garlic to adjika. Leave on for 5 minutes.

Adjika prepared in this way can be stored in sterilized jars all winter.

Ketchup

This is a well-known sauce that contains not only tomatoes, but also spices. In stores you can find many different options for such an additive to the dish. But usually, in addition to vegetables, they include dyes and preservatives. A healthy product can be prepared at home.

There are many recipes. The easiest is classic. It is simple, it allows you to cook ketchup, reminiscent of Krasnodar sauce in terms of taste.

The following products are required for cooking:

• half a glass of granulated sugar;
• 2.5 kg of tomatoes;
• half a tablespoon of salt;
• 2 buds of cloves;
• 20 peas of black pepper;
• 10 coriander;
• 2 tablespoons of 9% vinegar.

Tomatoes for ketchup are best taken with the most ripe, but not watery, as the density of the resulting sauce depends on the quality of the tomato. They need to be washed, cut into 4 parts. Put everything in a pan and boil for 20 minutes. Tomatoes should boil well. During cooking, excess moisture should evaporate. That is why you should not cover the container with a lid.

The resulting mass should be wiped through a sieve to remove the skin and seeds. In some cases, this becomes difficult. Then you need to put the pan on the stove again and boil until fully cooked.

After the mass is wiped, it must be brought to the desired consistency. To do this, put the container on a minimum fire and cook until excess moisture evaporates. At the same time, the volume of ketchup is reduced by almost a half times.

When the mass has thickened, seasonings must be added. But in order not to catch them after cooking, it is recommended to use the following advice: fold the seasonings in gauze and tie. Lower the knot into the pan, and throw the tip over the edge.When the spices give up their aroma (20 minutes), get the bundle and squeeze. Then it can be thrown out.

Ketchup should be salt, add granulated sugar and vinegar. Cook over low heat for another 10 minutes. Ketchup prepared by this method is stored in glass, pre-sterilized jars. Shelf life is up to six months.

Tomato juice

Juice obtained from tomatoes also has useful properties, especially if it is prepared at home. This is easy enough to do. This will require the following ingredients:

• 12 kg of tomatoes;
• salt and sugar to taste.

Tomatoes should be ripe and sweet enough. They need to be washed, remove the stalks and cut into several pieces. Pass everything through a juicer. If not, you can use a meat grinder or blender. In the first case, more juice will remain. When using a blender or meat grinder, the juice will turn out with pulp.

You can also wipe the tomatoes through a sieve. The process is time-consuming, but helps to get tomato juice with almost no pulp.

Cake is not required, it can be set aside, and pour the juice into a saucepan. Add salt and sugar. Their number depends on the volume of juice obtained. For each liter, approximately 2 teaspoons of granulated sugar and half a tablespoon of salt will be required.

The pan must be set on fire, brought to a boil and cooked for 15 minutes, stirring constantly. Then remove the container from the stove, and pour the juice into pre-prepared cans. Screw on the covers, allow to cool and remove for storage.

Tomato paste

Pasta made from tomatoes is used to prepare dishes such as stews, borsch, ketchup, kharcho. You can cook it at home. In this case, the resulting product will be natural and most useful, since it does not contain dyes, flavor enhancers, aromas.

The simplest is the classic recipe. To prepare tomato paste in accordance with it you will need:

• 3 kg of tomatoes;
• salt.

For the preparation of tomato paste, you can use slightly crushed tomatoes, but they should not be spoiled. They should be washed, cut into several parts and put everything in a saucepan, which is covered with a lid.

Place the container on low heat, cook for 40 minutes. Tomatoes should become soft. After this, leave the mixture to insist. Pour the liquid into another container, as it is not required. Wipe the remaining mass through a sieve. This will remove the peel and seeds. It should be quite thick juice. Boil it for several hours so that all excess moisture evaporates, then grind again and cook again for an hour. Add salt to taste.

After the paste has acquired sufficient density, transfer it to sterilized jars and close the lid. You can store the paste up to six months in a cool place.

How to pickle

Pickled tomatoes are a popular snack, especially on the festive table. Tomatoes and the juice in which they are found help cope with a hangover. Cooking them is easy even for beginners. This will require:

• 1.2 kg of tomatoes;
• a tablespoon of sugar;
• half a tablespoon of salt;
• 50 ml of vinegar 9%;
• 2 bay leaves;
• 4 peas of black pepper;
• 3 cloves.

Tomatoes need to be washed. Sterilize all cans before cooking. This can be done in the oven or in a water bath. Put bay leaf, other seasonings and tomatoes in a jar.

Boil two liters of water and pour hot in a jar. After 10 minutes, pour it back into the pan, boil. Then pour it into the jar again, screw on the lid.

When the jar has cooled, it needs to be cleaned in a cool place. You can store such tomatoes for six months. Serve cold with meat dishes.

Is it possible to give tomatoes to animals

Tomatoes are invaluable.They include many trace elements and vitamins that are necessary for the human body. Animals also require all of these substances to maintain health and vitality.

But giving tomatoes fresh to animals is not recommended. This is due to the fact that their composition includes sugar in a certain amount. Tomatoes can be included in the diet of cats and dogs only as part of soups, broths, stews.

Fresh tomatoes are good for rodents. They are soft and tasty, and they also have many trace elements that are so necessary for animals. The presence of tomatoes in the diet will help restore the shine and silkiness of the coat, increase the pet's immunity and protect it from the development of certain diseases.

Interesting facts about tomatoes

Tomatoes are a popular vegetable that is a fairly valuable product for the body. It is used in many dishes, consumed both fresh and salted, pickled and even dried. But not everyone knows a few interesting facts about them:

1. For a long time, tomatoes were considered unfit for consumption and poisonous. They were grown as an exotic plant.
2. Tomatoes appeared in Russia only at the end of the 18th century.
3. In the first place for growing tomatoes and harvesting is China. The second and third places are occupied by India and the United States of America, respectively. Thus, experts estimate that every third tomato in the world is grown in China.
4. The pulp of tomatoes is widely used in folk medicine. On its basis do not only restoring masks for face and hair. Pulp is also used to accelerate the healing process of sun or thermal burns, wounds. This property is achieved due to the presence of plant antibiotics. They are called volatile. They do not allow the infection to spread and activate the regeneration process.
5. Monument to tomato can be found in Ukraine. It is located in the city of Kamenka-Dneprovskaya.
6. The largest tomato that has ever been grown is considered to be a tomato weighing 2.9 kg. The record was registered in the USA, in the state of Wisconsin.
7. Specialists identified about 10 thousand varieties of tomatoes. The smallest is considered a tomato, whose diameter is only 2 cm.
8. Tomatoes are similar in their biological properties to tobacco and potatoes. All three cultures in botany belong to the nightshade family.

Tomatoes are a popular product that can be consumed daily. It benefits the body and is used for cosmetic purposes.

Also, tomatoes are widely used for medical purposes. They help to cope with the symptoms of certain diseases. On the basis of tomatoes, a huge variety of dishes are prepared, which are used as seasoning, a delicious additive or snack. Proper use of tomatoes will replenish the body with useful substances and vitamins. But they should not be abused, since an excessive amount can lead to certain symptoms.

Photo of tomatoes