Tomatoes originating from South America was first used by the Aztec community (predecessor of the nation of Mexico) for cooking. These umami-flavored tomatoes can be processed into various dishes, ranging from salads, sauces, drinks, to food.
Tomatoes, which have the scientific name Solanum lycopersicum, have various types such as those that you can find on the market. For example ordinary tomatoes, cherry tomatoes, beefsteak tomatoes, gondol tomatoes, green tomatoes, and others.
Most tomatoes (95 percent) consist of water, while the remaining 5 percent consists of carbohydrates, fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
In one medium-sized tomato, there are 20 calories (tomatoes do have a low calorie), 1.2 grams of fiber, and 5 grams of carbohydrates. The fiber contained in tomatoes is soluble fiber that can be useful for maintaining digestive health.
Tomatoes are a food ingredient that is rich in vitamin C, which is a powerful antioxidant that is useful for dispelling free radicals. Free radicals are known to damage cells and body tissues and cause various diseases.
In addition, vitamin C also plays a role in the formation of collagen. The body needs collagen to support healthy skin and joints, enhance immunity, and help with iron absorption.
