Drinking tomato juice daily has many health benefits, such as boosting the immune system and being suitable for colds, flu, etc. Tomato juice is made from ripe fresh tomatoes and has been proven to be a nutritious beverage beneficial for health. It contains antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, lycopene, and vitamin E.
According to medical experts, tomatoes have several effects on preventing high blood pressure, obesity, diabetes, and atherosclerosis and enhancing liver function.
Nutritional Composition of Tomato Juice
Tomato juice is very nutritious, containing many vitamins and minerals. A cup (240g) of 100% pure tomato juice (packaged type), without added salt, contains:
- Calories: 41
- Protein: 2g
- Fiber: 2g
- Vitamin A: 22% Daily Value (DV)
- Vitamin C: 74% DV
- Vitamin K: 7% DV
- Thiamine (Vitamin B1): 8% DV
- Niacin (Vitamin B3): 8% DV
- Pyridoxine (Vitamin B6): 13% DV
- Folate (Vitamin B9): 12% DV
- Magnesium: 7% DV
- Potassium: 16% DV
- Copper: 7% DV
- Manganese: 9% DV
Health Benefits of Tomato Juice
Tomato juice is beneficial for health, and you can drink it daily. A cup of tomato juice is perfect for health and meets most daily vitamin requirements. Below are some health benefits of tomato juice:
Meets the body’s vitamin and fibre needs.
Rich in protein. A cup of tomato juice meets the daily vitamin C requirements and about 1/4 of the vitamin A needs. According to the National Institutes of Health, a glass of tomato juice provides 20% of the recommended daily vitamin A, 12-15% potassium and copper, and 5% magnesium, iron, manganese, and phosphorus. It also contains 12% of the recommended daily pectin and 8% fibre.
Rich in carotenoids and polyphenols
Tomatoes contain bioactive components and phytochemicals like carotenoids and polyphenols. Carotenoids are converted into vitamin A, helping maintain good vision and tissue health. It can also prevent cancer, as stated in a study published in the Carotenoid Cancers Journal (USA), which states that this antioxidant helps prevent the production of free radicals.
Rich in antioxidants, it helps fight inflammation and support weight loss.
Antioxidants are crucial for the body, and tomato juice is rich in an antioxidant called lycopene. A glass of tomato juice contains 22mg of lycopene. Lycopene helps protect cells from damage and reduces all signs of inflammation in the body, as stated in a study published in Current Medicinal Chemistry (USA).
A two-month study published in a Nutrition journal observed the effects of 1-2 cups of tomato juice daily on 30 women. It was found that there was a decrease in inflammatory proteins called adipokines.
Tomatoes also help the body detoxify, which supports the liver and avoids overload.
Furthermore, researchers have noted a reduction in cholesterol levels and waist measurements. Drinking tomato juice combined with regular exercise stimulates metabolism, leading to more fat-burning and quicker weight loss.
Supporting Heart Disease Treatment
Regular consumption of tomato juice helps maintain a healthy heart. Lycopene and beta-carotene in tomato juice benefit blood pressure and cholesterol reduction. A study published in a British Nutrition journal observed 584 individuals who actively consumed tomatoes and tomato products over a decade. They reduced the risk of heart disease compared to the group that did not consume tomatoes.
May Prevent Cancer
Drinking tomato juice also helps prevent various types of cancer. A study published in the Scientific Research journal analyzed the work of 24 studies and concluded that consuming tomatoes may reduce the risk of prostate cancer.
Enhancing Vision
Elderly individuals or those with vision issues can drink tomato juice to improve and enhance their vision. Specifically, tomato juice contains nutrients such as lutein, zeaxanthin, beta-carotene, and vitamin C – all beneficial for eye health, improving brightness, and slowing down age-related vision degeneration.
Skin Benefits
Tomatoes contain various vitamins, antioxidants, and other substances. These substances help make skin healthier, brighter, and smoother and effectively prevent acne. Tomato juice is also very useful in sun protection due to the presence of lycopene. Antioxidants protect sensitive skin from sunburn and enhance the skin’s ability to resist UV rays.
Side Effects of Tomato Juice
Although tomato juice is beneficial for health, it has some drawbacks to consider. Here are some things to note if you drink too much tomato juice:
Sodium Content
Check the sodium content of tomato juice before adding salt or consuming packaged tomato juice. Many types of tomato juice contain excessive sodium, which harms the body by raising blood pressure.
Lower Fiber than Tomatoes
To increase your fibre intake, eat whole tomatoes instead of juice. Tomatoes contain 1.4g of fibre per 100g, while 100g of tomato juice contains only 0.4g.
High-Calorie Supplement
When consuming pre-made tomato juice, check all ingredients. High-calorie fruits and other foods may be added to enhance flavour, increasing calorie intake. Also, check the sugar content.
May Affect Digestive Health
If you are experiencing digestive issues like Irritable Bowel Syndrome or acid reflux, it’s best to avoid tomato juice. Tomatoes are acidic and can be harmful in such cases.
Nutrition experts recommend drinking tomato juice in the morning or afternoon but not immediately after a meal. Wait about 2 to 3 hours after a meal to maximize the benefits of tomato juice without harming your health. This helps in better nutrient absorption and balances the body’s pH level.
Tomato juice is a nutritious drink with vitamins and minerals that benefit overall health. Regular consumption can help boost the immune system, prevent diseases, and promote skin health. For a healthy lifestyle, consider incorporating fresh fruits and vegetables like tomatoes from Farm to Palms supermarket.