1. Origin and history of the tomato
A thousand-year-old plant from South America
The tomato is native to Latin America, particularly Peru and Ecuador, where it was cultivated in the wild over 2,500 years ago. Originally small and yellow in color, it has evolved into the juicy, sweet fruit we know today.
Introduction to Europe
Brought back by the conquistadors in the 16th century, it was initially considered a poisonous plant. It was not until the 18th century that it truly entered European cuisines, particularly in Italy and then in France. It quickly became a key food in the Mediterranean diet .
2. Tomato varieties: which ones to choose?
There are over 15,000 varieties worldwide, each with different nutritional and taste characteristics.
| Variety | Flavor | Recommended use |
|---|---|---|
| Beef heart | Soft, fleshy | Raw, sliced |
| Roma | Not very juicy | Sauces, stews |
| Cherry | Sweet | Salads, snacks |
| Crimean Black | Intense, complex | Pies, mixed salads |
| Green Zebra | Tangy | Raw vegetables, creative dishes |
| Pineapple | Fruity, sweet | Carpaccio, tartare |
For a boost in health, choose dark red tomatoes, rich in lycopene , and organic, little-hybridized heirloom varieties.
3. Nutritional profile of tomatoes
The tomato is a fruit/vegetable with high nutritional density, very low in calories (18 kcal / 100 g) and rich in protective micronutrients .
| Nutrient | Contribution per 100 g | Health benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Lycopene | 3-15 mg | Antioxidant, cardiovascular protector |
| Vitamin C | 20 mg | Immunity, skin, anti-fatigue |
| Vitamin A | 833 UI | Vision, skin, mucous membranes |
| Potassium | 237 mg | Blood pressure, fluid balance |
| Fibers | 1.2 g | Transit, satiety |
4. Health Benefits of Tomatoes
A powerful natural antioxidant
Thanks to its richness in lycopene , vitamin C and carotenoids , the tomato helps to neutralize free radicals responsible for cellular aging.
Cardiovascular protection
Lycopene helps lower LDL cholesterol and improves vascular health. Potassium helps lower blood pressure .
Prevention of certain cancers
Studies link regular consumption of tomatoes (especially cooked) to a reduced risk of prostate , breast and lung cancers.
Skin health
Lycopene protects the skin against oxidative damage associated with the sun and aging.
Improved digestion
The fiber content of tomatoes stimulates transit and promotes the elimination of toxins.
Hydration and satiety
Composed of 95% water, the tomato is hydrating and a natural appetite suppressant , perfect for a slimming approach.
5. How to consume tomatoes to benefit from their advantages?
Flood
In salad, carpaccio or tartare: fresh, it retains its vitamins .
Cooked (and concentrated)
Cooking increases the bioavailability of lycopene , making sauces and broths nutritionally very effective.
Our organic Le Sud broth is a gourmet source of tomato, with red pepper, caraway, coriander and lemon thyme, to infuse like a 100% natural hot soup.
In juice or gazpacho
A quick boost of antioxidants , to be drunk chilled.
To find out more, discover our simple and healthy recipe ideas with tomatoes as the star ingredient!
6. When should you limit your tomato consumption?
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
Tomatoes are acidic: they can irritate the digestive mucous membranes in sensitive people.
Rare allergy
Allergic reactions (urticaria, eczema, asthma) are possible in some people.
Histamine intolerance
Tomatoes are histamine-releasing foods. They can trigger symptoms in people prone to this disorder.
Interaction with certain treatments
In people suffering from kidney failure or taking anticoagulants , medical advice is recommended (due to the potassium or oxalate content).
In summary: tomatoes in a healthy diet
Tomatoes, when consumed organically , in a variety of forms and intelligently combined (olive oil to improve the absorption of lycopene, digestive herbs such as caraway or rosemary, etc.), become a key health ally.
It fits perfectly into the Chic des Plantes universe! with Le Sud , our organic tomato broths , infused hot or cold, to combine culinary pleasure and beneficial nutrition . And to get cooking, discover our easy tomato recipes made with our organic broths .
