Properties and indications of Tomatoes:

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• Fresh tomatoes contain a great deal of water (almost 94% of their weight)

Tomato – has four chamber and is red. The heart has four chambers and is red. All the research shows tomatoes are loaded with lycopene and are indeed pure heart and blood food.

Properties and Indications: Fresh tomatoes contain a great deal of water (almost 94% of their weight). They contain small amounts of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. Its carbohydrates are formed primarily of glucose and fructose. Together, these nutrients provide 21 k cal/100 g, one of the lowest amount of any plant-based foods, lower even than asparagus 

· Vitamins B1, B2, B6, niacin, and folates are all present in significant amounts. 

· Pro-vitamin A is present, although much less than in carrots or mango.

· Potassium (222mg/100g)

· Iron – about nine times as much as milk

· Vegetable Fiber - Tomatoes contain a small amount (1.1%) of soluble fiber in their pulp and particularly in the mucilage surrounding the seeds

· Organic Acids - Particularly malic and oxalic, which contribute to the tomato’s unique flavor. In spite if the acidic taste, which results from the presence of these acid substances, the tomato has the same effect as the lemon. It has an alkalizing effect on the blood, organic tissues and the urine. This is because it contains many more alkalizing substances (mineral salts) than acids.

· Lycopene-This vegetable pigment belongs to group of carotenoids that gives tomatoes their typical red color. In contrast to beta-carotene, lycopene does not transform to vitamin A. 

1. Lycopene is normally present in human blood, together with beta-carotene, it is the most abundant carotenoid in the human body.

2. Lycopene is also found in the testicles, the prostate, and the suprarenal glands (adrenal glands).

3. Lycopene is an extremely potent antioxidant, preventing the deterioration that free radicals produce in the DNA of the cells.

4. Lycopene intervenes in the mechanisms that control cellular growth. Without its presence, cells reproduce in a more disorderly manner

Depurant (removes impurities)-Tomatoes are remarkable blood alkalizes, which neutralize and help eliminate metabolic waste products, most of which are acidic. They are also diuretic, thus facilitating the work of the kidneys. Their regular consumption is highly recommended to “cleanse” the blood in case of gout, kidney failure with an increase in blood urea, or chronic presence of toxins in body because of diet rich in meats and animal proteins. 

· Depressed immune system-Because of their richness in vitamins and minerals, and above all antioxidant carotenoids, tomatoes naturally stimulate the immune functions of the body. They increase the infection-fighting capabilities of the body, which are the ones that finally eliminate infections agents (contrary to common belief, antibiotics are not responsible for this).

· Arteriosclerosis-Because of the antioxidant effect, tomatoes prevent the oxidation of the cholesterol transported by low-density lipoproteins, which cause the narrowing and hardening of the arteries associated with arteriosclerosis.

· Cancerous disorders-It has been noted that tomato consumption protects against prostate cancer. Studies performed in Italy show that regular tomato consumption also has a protective effect from cancers of the mouth, esophagus, stomach, colon, and rectum. 

Note: Tomatoes stewed or fried with a little oil are a better source of lycopene than raw tomatoes. .

Vegetarian Chili

6 cups cooked kidney or pinto beans

2 Medium onions, chopped

2 Cups tomato sauce (see above recipe)

1 quart whole chopped tomatoes

2 cups water, if beans are too dry

2 Tablespoons cumin

salt to taste

2 Tablespoons lemon juice

Directions:

Simmer until well heated.   This is nice served over rice, or a baked potato, or in a bowl by itself.