Well-known for her important statements on health and nutrition, Prof. Dr. Canan Karatay shares crucial warnings this time about tomatoes, an essential part of breakfasts. Here’s what you need to know…
Characteristics of Tomatoes and Information on Consumption
Although tomatoes are actually a fruit, they are often considered a vegetable by many people. Prof. Dr. Canan Karatay points out that excessive consumption of tomatoes, especially during the summer months, can cause patients’ blood sugar and uric acid levels to rise. In this context, she emphasizes that tomatoes and some vegetables contain sugar and are grown with pesticide-laden farming practices.
Agricultural pesticides play a significant role in the development of various diseases and can even lead to cancer. Canan Karatay states that the natural season for tomatoes is in September and warns that out-of-season vegetables available in the market can be dangerous.
Warning That Tomatoes Should Not Be Consumed on an Empty Stomach
Prof. Dr. Canan Karatay warns that tomatoes are among the foods that should not be consumed on an empty stomach. Eating tomatoes on an empty stomach increases stomach acid levels, which can lead to gastritis. Therefore, she emphasizes that consuming tomatoes on an empty stomach can be quite harmful.
How Should Tomatoes Be Consumed Properly?
To ensure that tomatoes are consumed in a healthy manner, it is important to consider Canan Karatay’s recommendations:
- Consume in season: The natural season for tomatoes is September. Consuming artificially grown tomatoes available all year round can be dangerous.
- Avoid on an empty stomach: Tomatoes are among the foods that should not be consumed on an empty stomach. Eating tomatoes on an empty stomach can increase stomach acid levels, leading to gastritis.
- Choose natural and pesticide-free agricultural products: Tomatoes and other vegetables grown with pesticide-laden farming practices can cause health problems. Therefore, it is beneficial to opt for natural and pesticide-free agricultural products.
Health Benefits of Tomatoes
Tomatoes offer a variety of health benefits, including:
- Antioxidant source: Tomatoes are rich in lycopene and other antioxidants. These compounds fight free radicals that damage the body’s cells, strengthening the immune system and slowing down the aging process.
- Supports heart health: The potassium and B vitamins in tomatoes have positive effects on heart health. Potassium helps regulate blood pressure, while B vitamins help reduce the risk of heart attacks.
- Regulates blood sugar: Tomatoes have a low glycemic index, which helps maintain balanced blood sugar levels. As a result, they are considered beneficial for people with diabetes.
- Protects skin health: Tomatoes contain important antioxidants for skin health, such as vitamins A and C and lycopene. These compounds strengthen skin cells, reduce signs of aging, and lower the risk of skin cancer.
Frequently Asked Questions About Tomato Consumption
What are the harms of tomatoes?
The harms of tomatoes usually stem from improper consumption methods. Consuming tomatoes on an empty stomach can increase stomach acid levels, leading to gastritis. Additionally, tomatoes grown with pesticide-laden farming practices can cause health problems.
When should tomatoes not be consumed?
Tomatoes should not be consumed on an empty stomach. Also, caution should be taken when consuming tomatoes out of their natural season, as they may have been artificially grown.
Is drinking tomato juice healthy?
Drinking tomato juice prepared naturally can be a different way to benefit from the health advantages of tomatoes. However, it is important to be cautious about store-bought tomato juice products, as they may contain additives and high amounts of sugar.
In conclusion, by heeding Prof. Dr. Canan Karatay’s warnings, tomatoes can be consumed in a healthy manner. Through proper tomato consumption, numerous health benefits can be enjoyed
