he tomatoes He is one of those vegetables essential in Mediterranean diet. It is widely consumed during the hotter months, as it is the basis of the diet Gazpacho And the Salmorejo.
Originally from the American continent, it was introduced to Europe by the Spanish conquistadors. However, it was not grown for food purposes until the 18th century, when it began to become very popular due to its cultivation flavor I cleverness.
And now one research led by Doctor David Murcia LesmesThe food science and nutrition researcher highlights how tomatoes “can play a relevant clinical role in the prevention and treatment of… high blood pressure“It is one of the biggest health problems.
What is high blood pressure and why is it dangerous?
In Spain, 11 million people Arterial hypertension. This is a condition in which the blood pressure on the walls of the arteries is so strong that it can cause other health problems:
-
Heart disease
-
Heart failure
-
Cerebrovascular accident
The most worrying thing about high blood pressure is that… A silent disease: It does not produce symptoms and in most cases it goes unnoticed.
he Excessive consumption of sodium It is the main risk factor for suffering from high blood pressure, although it is an extremely important mineral for the proper functioning of the body, because it controls blood pressure and blood volume and allows muscles and nerves to function.
The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends that Salt consumptionregardless of its origin, does not exceed Five grams daily. This means a dessert spoon. For its part, the Heart Foundation specifies that we only need 1.25 grams of salt per day.
Tomatoes: essential to reduce the risk of high blood pressure
Research published inEuropean journal of preventive cardiologyHe emphasizes that daily consumption of tomatoes, or not eating products that rely on these vegetables, Reduces the risk of arterial hypertension By 36%.
Why do tomatoes have such “power”? It could all be up to him High content to LycopeneIt is a carotenoid that gives some fruits and vegetables their distinctive color Red coloras is the case with tomatoes, and what they are Powerful antioxidants. In addition, this ingredient also inhibits the production of angiotensin, which regulates blood pressure.
“According to our results in hypertension, high intake of lycopene improves the condition Cardiovascular salute In older and overweight participants the risk of cerebrovascular accidents was reduced,” the research highlights.
naturally, “There are no magic foods“But you should aim to eat a varied and balanced diet, rich in seasonal fruits and vegetables, low in meat products with saturated fats and reducing salty, sugary, fatty or ultra-processed foods.”
-
“Dietary habits are complex, but according to the current study, Tomatoes a day This can be an important step stay away from the doctor, “At least in part.”
As explained by the Spanish Nutrition Foundation (FEN), among the vitamins found in tomatoes “it is worth noting the content of vitamin A, mainly in the form of provitamin A and vitamin C carotenoids.” One serving of tomatoes “covers 61% of the recommended daily intake of vitamin C for the general population.”
Regarding lycopene, its quantity depends on the variety grown. But “mashed or cooked tomatoes and mixing them with oil improve the absorption of lycopene in the body.”
Check here all the news from Diario de Girona
“Infuriatingly humble social media buff. Twitter advocate. Writer. Internet nerd.”
