There are numerous ways to prepare and consume tomatoes, either raw or cooked. People have differing opinions on whether it is better to eat tomatoes raw or cooked. Some believe that this food is more nutritious when eaten raw as the nutrients remain intact, while others argue that cooked tomatoes offer superior nutritional benefits.
So, is it better to eat tomatoes raw or cooked?
Are raw or cooked tomatoes better? (Image: Sohu)
Tomatoes are rich in vitamins such as vitamin C, vitamin A, and B-complex vitamins. They are also particularly high in carotene, organic acids, sugars, calcium, phosphorus, iron, and other nutrients. A significant portion of these nutrients is lost when exposed to high temperatures during cooking. Thus, raw tomatoes retain a higher content of vitamins and nutrients compared to cooked ones.
However, a valuable component of tomatoes, lycopene, increases in concentration when heated. Therefore, consuming raw tomatoes will provide you with lower levels of lycopene than cooked tomatoes.
The lycopene content in tomatoes increases upon cooking. (Image: Sohu)
If you aim to boost your vitamin C intake, it is best to eat tomatoes raw, such as consuming them directly, in salads, or by juicing or blending them. The vitamins in raw tomatoes remain intact and are directly absorbed by the human body. Vitamin C in tomatoes has anti-aging, anti-radiation, skin-lightening, and immune-boosting properties.
On the other hand, to maximize lycopene absorption, opt for cooked tomatoes. While the vitamin content may be relatively lower, the lycopene levels are significantly higher, and its antioxidant activity is enhanced. Consuming cooked tomatoes is an effective way to increase your antioxidant intake.
Additionally, the preference for raw or cooked tomatoes depends on one’s health condition. Individuals with a hot body constitution or those experiencing internal heat may benefit from eating raw tomatoes as they possess cooling properties, helping to clear heat, quench thirst, and detoxify the body.
In contrast, for those prone to diarrhea or with a cold body constitution, raw tomatoes may not be suitable due to their high organic acid content, which can irritate the stomach. Certain compounds in tomatoes can combine with stomach acid, leading to bloating, stomach pain, and even an increased risk of stomach stone formation. Therefore, individuals with a cold body constitution are advised to consume cooked tomatoes.
Cooked tomatoes suit those with a cold body constitution. (Image: Sohu)
Some things to keep in mind when consuming tomatoes:
– When eating raw tomatoes, ensure they are thoroughly washed. You may also briefly dip them in hot water to remove the skin and reduce pesticide residue before consumption.
– For cooked tomatoes, avoid prolonged exposure to high temperatures as lycopene breaks down, and valuable nutrients are lost.
– Whether consuming them raw or cooked, avoid green tomatoes as they contain higher levels of solanine, which can be toxic in significant amounts.
According to VTC News
