What Is Tomato Juice?

Tomato juice is a superfood due to its vitamin and mineral contents. The juice is rich in vitamins A, B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, and K. It also contains magnesium, iron, and phosphorus. Tomato juice is popular for its ability to enhance health and beauty. It`s got loads of benefits; let`s see them.

10 Benefits of Tomato Juice

Regulates Bowel Movements

Tomato juice contains fiber which aids bowel movement, aids digestion, and prevents constipation. People who suffer digestion issues find this juice quite beneficial.

Prevents Cancer

Tomatoes are red because they contain a fat-soluble antioxidant called lycopene which prevents various types of cancer such as breast cancer, lung cancer, prostate cancer, colorectal cancer coronary artery disease, pancreatic cancer, and atherosclerosis. Regular consumption of tomato juice reduces the risk of cancer.

Breaks Down Homocysteine

Tomato juice contains vitamin B6 which breaks down homocysteine into harmless molecules. This compound damages blood vessel walls and causes heart diseases. So regular consumption of tomato juice protects the heart.

Detoxifies the Body

Tomato juice contains chlorine and sulfur which aid detoxification. Chlorine enables the liver and kidney to function properly, while sulfur protects both organs from infections.

Rich in Vitamins A and C

Tomato juice`s vitamins A and C contents make it strengthening. These vitamins enrich the immune system, improve vision, and ward off eye-related diseases. What`s more? They maintain the health of the bones and teeth.

Balances Cholesterol Levels

Tomato juice prevents high cholesterol. It is rich in fiber, hence it breaks down LDL or unhealthy cholesterol in the body. Its vitamin B content particularly stabilizes cholesterol levels.

Aids Weight Loss

Tomato juice keeps the body hydrated, while its high fiber and low sodium contents reduce feelings of weakness and hunger. It supplies the body adequate nutrients to keep the metabolic process remains normal. To make your weight loss goals more easily attainable, have some tomato juice.

Energizes the Body

Tomato juice contains antioxidants which get rid of free radicals, hence they keep the body energetic and young, as these antioxidants also prevent premature aging. Low on energy? Why not grab some tomato juice?

Improves Hair Health

This juice contains iron and vitamins that preserve the hair and add shine to it. They also eliminate dandruff and itchy scalp. Simply apply fresh tomato juice to your scalp and hair after washing it with shampoo, and then leave it in for 4-5 minutes before rinsing off.

Improves Skin Health

Tomato juice eliminates discoloration of the skin, prevents and treats acne, shrinks open sores, and regulates the secretion of sebum in oily skins.

How to Make Tomato Juice

• Cook fresh and well-sliced tomatoes for 30 minutes over medium heat.
• Let it cool, then put the tomatoes in a blender or food processor, and blend till you have a drinkable texture.
• You may add veggies or herbs such as celery, oregano or red peppers to boost its nutrition and flavor.

Tips to Buying and Using Tomatoes

Here are tips that would help you buy the right tomatoes, and use them optimally. Leggo!

• Buy organic, vine-ripened tomatoes at farmers` markets or specialty stores.
• Tomatoes grown in greenhouses have about half the vitamin C content in their vine-ripened counterparts.
• Vine-ripened tomatoes have a higher level of antioxidants and other nutrients.
• Soft and somewhat firm tomatoes are the best to eat. The softer the tomatoes, the riper and sweeter they are.

13 Side Effects of Tomato Juice

As fantastic as this juice is, it has its not-so-good sides. Let`s take a look.

High Salt Content

A number of tomato juice products contain added salt which increases the sodium content, and that can be a problem, especially for people who are sensitive to salt or have the tendency to suffer high blood pressure.

Worsens Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease

People with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) may need to avoid tomato juice because it may worsen the condition.

Urinary Problems

Tomato juice is acidic, hence it irritates the bladder, and can result in urinary issues and bladder problems.

Respiratory Problems

People who suffer tomato allergies are prone to having breathing issues. If you experience breathing issues, it is safe to avoid tomato juice.

Migraine

Tomato juice is likely to trigger headaches and migraines in people who already suffer it. It is safe to avoid this drink if you have the tendency to suffer frequent headaches or migraines.

Body Aches

There`s a compound in tomato juice called histamine which may cause swelling and joint pains. The juice also contains an alkaloid called solanine which builds up calcium in the tissues and causes arthritis and inflammation. What`s more? Excess consumption of tomato juice increases uric acid levels and leads to gout.

Kidney Problems

Tomatoes are rich in potassium, hence excess consumption of tomato juice may be an issue, as it affects the kidneys.

Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Tomato juice may cause or worsen irritable bowel syndrome and intestinal problem. It may also cause bloating. People who notice any of these or those who are already susceptible to them may need to avoid the juice.

Diarrhea

Excessive intake of tomato juice can cause diarrhea because they have an organism called salmonella which causes diarrhea.

Allergies and Infections

Some persons are allergic to tomato fruit, hence the juice also. Common allergies include eczema, skin rashes, coughing, sneezing, swelling in the face and mouth, and an itching sensation in the throat. These allergies may be as a result of the histamine content in tomatoes.

Risks for Pregnant and Breastfeeding Mothers

The lycopene content in tomato juice finds its way into breast milk, and this can cause discomfort and irritation for the baby.

Risk of Lycopenodermia

Tomato juice is rich in lycopene, hence excessive consumption of it may cause lycopenodermia which is characterized by the deep-orange coloration of the skin.

Acute Gastrointestinal Upset

Tomato juice is acidic, hence it causes acute gastrointestinal upset. People who suffer heartburn or acid reflux are advised to avoid this drink. It is also important that you avoid excessive consumption of this juice.

Some Tomato Facts

• The original tomato species first grew in some parts of South America. They were lumpier and weren`t as sweet and smooth as what we have now.
• The earliest record of tomato recipes was in a cookbook published in Naples, Italy in 1692.
• Tomatoes grow easily in warm climates.
• For a long time, Italians only grew tomatoes for decoration purpose and didn`t consider the fruit a staple food.
• Tomatoes are one of the world`s most popular fruits, with 60 million tons produced annually.
• Tomatoes come in other colors such as white, purple, black, pink, and yellow.
• There are over 10,000 varieties of tomatoes in the world.
• In Spain, there is a festival called La Tomatina, in which people throw tomatoes at one another. Over 150,000 tomatoes are used for this purpose.
• Grown in Oklahoma in 1986, the largest tomato ever recorded weighed 3.5 kilos.
• Tomato juice is labeled the state drink of Ohio, and tomato its state fruit.
• The confusion over tomatoes being fruits or vegetables started in the 1890s when the Supreme Court of the United States declared tomatoes to be vegetables for taxation purpose.

Now That You Know…

Tomato juice is super tasty and delicious. If the side effects don`t affect you, grab a drink of it regularly, however, remember to consume it in moderation.