Tomatoes: Can they help lose weight?

Losing weight is a very difficult task. It takes humongous amounts of effort, commitment, time and self-control. One has to abstain himself/herself from all the lip smacking food items that are irresistible. Losing weight also involves following a strict diet regime and physical exercises. Only with the successful combination of proper diet and regular exercise, one can achieve the target weight.

It is a fact that tomatoes have many health benefits. They are major dietary source of the antioxidant lycopene, which has been linked to many health benefits, including reduced risk of heart disease and cancer. They are also a great source of vitamin C, potassium, folate, and vitamin K. Here is a look at whether tomatoes actually help lose weight or not.

Tomatoes are nutritious and rich in essential nutrients such as minerals, vitamins, protein, and fiber. They are also low in calories. One medium-sized (123 gm.) tomato contains about 24 calories while one large tomato (182 gm.) has up to 33 calories.

Tomatoes are rich in fiber which include soluble and insoluble fiber. The soluble fiber in tomatoes helps reduce your calorie intake by keeping you full for a longer time and automatically reducing your cravings. It also acts as a food source for the good gut bacteria. The insoluble fiber in tomatoes controls body weight and keeps the digestive system free from constipation.

Foods that have a low GI are good for weight loss as they help to reduce the spike in your blood sugar level. The glycemic index of tomatoes is 38 which is relatively low when compared to the GI score of 55 approved for low GI foods.

Tomatoes are rich in powerful antioxidants that may be good for weight loss. Antioxidants are very useful to the body as they repair damaged cells and aid the immune system. Tomatoes are high in vitamins A and C, and is cholesterol-free.

Tomatoes are low in carbohydrates and can significantly help with weight loss. One large tomato contains 7 gm. of carbohydrate. To lose weight, one can add one or two tomatoes to their daily diet.

Indigestion or constipation can lead to unwanted weight. Eating tomatoes can help you have good and easy digestion. Good digestion facilitates healthy bowel movements and hastens your weight loss journey.

Consuming tomato juice can boost lipid metabolism by inducing expression of genes involved in fatty acid oxidation. They also contain fat-burning amino acids. They help in stimulating the production of an amino acid that helps in boosting the fat-burning abilities of the body.

Consuming tomatoes can lead to lowering of bad cholesterol (LDL cholesterol) and a significant increase in good cholesterol (HDL cholesterol) levels. HDL cholesterol supports weight loss and prevents the risk of cardiovascular disease.

Yes, tomatoes do help in losing weight. Including them in your daily diet along with regular exercise can lead to noticeable results. However, depending solely on tomatoes will do not do the trick. A protein rich and low carb diet is essential in order to lose weight. Also, daily exercise is a must. Losing weight is all about the right diet (70 per cent) and exercise (30 per cent).

1. Include a fresh tomato slice on your sandwich and in your wraps.

2. Garnish your salad with fresh baby tomatoes, diced tomatoes, or wedges.

3. Add raw chopped tomatoes to boiled eggs and omelets.

4. Add them to your cottage cheese, pizzas, pasta, and kebabs.

5. Cook your stew and curry with a generous amount of freshly made tomato puree.

6. You can make tangy and tasty tomato juice or tomato smoothie.

7. Have a cup of tomato soup for lunch or dinner.