In his podcast Just One Thing broadcast on the BBC, famous doctor and nutrition expert Michael Mosley shares his secrets to improving our physical and mental health. And the star of one of its last episodes is none other than the tomato !
Indeed, tomatoes are rich in nutrients (vitamin C, potassium, folic acid) and full of benefits. And as the expert explains, one compound in particular would help fight cholesterol.
Why are tomatoes good for cholesterol?
Tomatoes are beneficial against cholesterol because they contain lycopenea red pigment which exhibits properties antioxidants And anti-inflammatories. Lycopene would help reduce LDL cholesterol levels (bad cholesterol) by preventing its absorption by the intestine. This type of cholesterol is responsible for clogged arteries and increases the risk of serious health problems such as heart disease and stroke. Lycopene would also help increase HDL cholesterol levels (good cholesterol), which helps reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease.
“In a recent analysis of six studies, scientists found that consumption of 1 to 1.5 cups of tomato juice per day for an average of six weeks could reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease“, reports the doctor. Moreover, “thePeople who drank tomato juice saw their LDL (bad cholesterol) levels decrease and their HDL (good cholesterol) levels increase.“.
He also explains that drinking tomato juice might even be a better way tohelp the body recover after intense physical exercise : “When Greek scientists asked 15 athletes to spend two months consuming either an energy drink or tomato juice during and after intense exercise sessions, they found that those given the tomato juice showed signs faster muscle recovery and a reduction in inflammation markers in their blood“.
Did you know that cooked tomatoes are even better for you?
In salad, soup or sauce, there are many ways to consume tomatoes. But did you know that cooked tomatoes are even better for you? “This is because heat breaks down the thick cell walls of tomatoes, making lycopene and other compounds in tomatoes more accessible to your body.“, explains Michael Mosley. “This means that tomato sauce made from fresh or canned tomatoes and even the ketchup can actually provide more lycopene than fresh tomatoes“.
It is important to note, however, that tomatoes are not a miracle cure for cholesterol. They must be combined with a healthy diet and regular physical activity to reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
