Tomatoes' surprising health risks: What to know before eating
Tomatoes have recently been gaining attention. Following research on lycopene, which may have groundbreaking implications for cancer prevention, they have become a staple in many refrigerators. It turns out that especially processed tomatoes are rich in compounds with powerful antioxidant effects. However, nutritionists emphasize not only the form in which they are consumed but also the time of day they are eaten.
Fresh tomatoes are a common addition to many meals. It's no wonder—during the season, they taste excellent, and even off-season, they are in constant demand. They contain valuable lycopene, which becomes more concentrated when thermally processed. Tomatoes are also a source of vitamin C, potassium, folic acid, and vitamin K, which plays an important role in blood clotting and bone health.
At what time is it better not to eat tomatoes?
Unfortunately, people with sensitive stomachs may experience discomfort after eating tomatoes on an empty stomach. The issue is the tannins they contain, which may irritate the digestive system. Tannins increase stomach acidity, potentially causing irritation of the stomach lining. Therefore, some people may experience pain, heartburn, or nausea after eating tomatoes on an empty stomach.
To quickly alleviate the burning sensation in the esophagus, you can take a slice of ginger and suck on it for a while like a candy. Herbal teas, such as chamomile, mint, fennel, or caraway, can also be effective. Chewing sugar-free gum may help with heartburn as well. If the discomfort persists, it is necessary to consult a doctor who can order appropriate diagnostic tests.
Who should not eat tomatoes?
The tannins in tomatoes, if consumed in large amounts, can limit the absorption of iron. Therefore, people suffering from anemia or taking anticoagulant medications should be cautious about consuming these fruits.
What should tomatoes not be combined with?
Nutritionists recommend not combining tomatoes with products high in iron content. Research by scientists from Ohio State University has found that the anticancer properties of tomatoes are significantly weakened when these vegetables are consumed with products high in iron, such as apples, plums, beans, peas, lentils, raisins, or avocados.
"When people consumed iron with their meal, we observed almost a twofold decrease in lycopene absorption," says one of the study's authors, Rachel Kopec.
For many people, this might mean a significant lifestyle change. After all, a salad with tomato and avocado is often considered an ideal combination. However, it's important to remember that not every meal needs to be consumed with the sole purpose of maximizing valuable nutrients. The psychological and social aspects of eating are also important. There is nothing wrong with enjoying a meal. However, it might be worthwhile to consider skipping avocado from time to time in favor of a thick tomato cream soup, perhaps with pumpkin seeds.
The content in our services is intended for informational and educational purposes and does not substitute for a medical consultation. Before making health decisions, please consult a specialist.
