GO TOMATOES!

Red, juicy and delicious tomatoes are drawing a lot of interest among health enthusiasts. Their excellent nutrient profile and disease prevention potential has helped the tomato to finally take its well-deserved position amongst superfoods.

Cardiac Health

The damage caused by oxidative stress to our arteries and heart can be reduced by regular consumption of tomatoes – as juice, salads, puree or sauces. Tomatoes help in fat metabolism and reduce the blood levels of triglycerides and total cholesterol. Additionally, studies show that the phytonutrients present in tomatoes possess a unique ability to reduce platelet aggregation (a known cause of atherosclerosis or blocking of blood vessels). Being rich in vitamins E and C also works to enhance the tomato’s heart protecting abilities.

Glowing Skin

A proven formula for flawless complexion is drinking a glass of tomato juice daily. The cooling anti-ageing and skin protecting nutrients in tomatoes make them a natural skin care tool. While eating tomatoes regularly helps the body to receive all the vital minerals and antioxidants, its application on the face helps get rid of acne, sunburn marks and ugly pigmentation spots.

Weight Loss

Packed with vital nutrients such as Vitamins A, B complex and Magnesium, tomato based recipes offer a low calorie, fat free and healthy addition to any dieter’s regime. Being rich in dietary fiber helps to keep hunger pangs at bay, control blood sugar levels and improve satiety, thus helping in weight control.

Healthy Bones

Studies suggest that tomatoes are a great way to strengthen the bones and fight brittle bones or osteoporosis. Being lactose free and Calcium rich, tomatoes show promise for people suffering from lactose intolerance and post menopausal calcium deficiencies. The combined activities of antioxidant rich lycopene and Vitamins D and K in tomatoes help in preventing age related bone degeneration and promote better bone health.

Checks Hypertension

Tomatoes are rich in potassium (one cup of tomato juice contains approximately 500 mg of potassium), which helps in maintaining adequate fluid balance in the body and helps treat problems such as hypertension, muscular weakness and fatigue. Tomatoes are also naturally low in sodium.

 

GOOD OLD TURNIP!

Turnips are essentially a root vegetable known for their bitter flavor. This vegetable which roughly resembles an apple comes in many varieties, smaller and tender ones meant for consumption. Even though both the roots and leaves can be consumed, turnip greens are considered to be more nutritious than the roots. The leaf greens are an excellent source of Vitamin A and help in preventing cataracts and cardiovascular disease. Turnip greens are of special importance for rheumatoid arthritis, colorectal cancer and atherosclerosis among other benefits.

Prevents Cancer

Containing high levels of antioxidants and phytonutrients, the turnip is considered a great cancer deterrent. Turnip greens are abundant in Glucosinolate, a plant compound that is said to aid the liver to process the toxins, fight effects of carcinogens and also hinder the growth of tumors.

Antioxidant Rich

Turnips also offer a myriad of antioxidant support in the form of Vitamins A, C, E, Manganese,. Beta-carotene. Vitamin A is essential for proper functioning of the immune system. It also helps the body produce and maintain healthy membranes, even those that line our joints such as the synovial membrane. Vitamins C and E further work towards fighting free radicals that can otherwise worsen the condition of already damaged joints.

Bone Builder

Turnips are great bone builders owing to the presence of calcium and potassium, essential for healthy growth of bones and prevention of osteoporosis. In fact, researchers have linked the bitter taste of turnip to its calcium content. Turnip greens contain four times more calcium than any other cruciferous vegetable, it is believed. Turnip greens are a special gift for people suffering with rheumatoid arthritis, which is associated with bone loss, thereby increasing the risk of osteoporosis. Leafy greens also contain copper, essential for the production of connective tissue, damaged in this autoimmune condition.

Fibre Packed

Turnips are rich in dietary fiber that helps in regulating metabolism which in turn leads to better digestive health. A robust metabolism again checks body weight and supports a healthy active colon.

Aids Weight Loss

Turnips are absolutely low in calories and can be a good addition to an effective weight loss program. High fiber content of turnip promotes healthy metabolism, thereby controlling body weight.