That’s an exciting claim! Tomatoes are indeed packed with nutrients, and cooking them in certain ways can enhance some of their benefits.
One of the most significant changes that occurs when you cook tomatoes is the increase in bioavailable lycopene. Lycopene is a powerful antioxidant linked to numerous health benefits, including:
Heart health: Studies suggest lycopene may help lower LDL (“bad”) cholesterol and blood pressure, reducing the risk of heart disease.
Cancer prevention: Lycopene’s antioxidant properties may help protect cells from damage that can lead to cancer, particularly prostate, lung, and stomach cancers.
Eye health: Tomatoes contain lutein and zeaxanthin, antioxidants that can protect against age-related macular degeneration.
Skin health: Antioxidants in tomatoes can help fight free radicals that damage skin cells.
How to Cook Tomatoes to Maximize Benefits:
Roasting: Roasting tomatoes with olive oil not only brings out their sweetness but also increases lycopene bioavailability. The healthy fats in olive oil help your body absorb lycopene more effectively. Simply toss halved or sliced tomatoes with olive oil, salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs (like garlic, thyme, or oregano) and roast them in the oven at around 200°C (400°F) until they are softened and slightly caramelized.
Stewing or Simmering: Cooking tomatoes in sauces or stews for a longer period also boosts lycopene levels. Adding a source of fat, like olive oil, during the cooking process is beneficial for absorption.
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