The Health Benefits of Tomatoes for Seniors 

While fresh, juicy tomatoes are a summertime favorite for all ages, these vibrant red fruits (technically) pack an especially nutritious punch for older adults. Tomatoes are nutrient-dense superfoods that can help seniors fight disease, boost health, and support an active lifestyle. Here are some of the key reasons why tomatoes deserve a spot on every senior’s plate:

Loaded With Antioxidants

One of tomatoes’ biggest health-promoting assets is their rich concentration of antioxidants like vitamin C, vitamin E, zinc, and phytochemicals like lycopene. Antioxidants help neutralize harmful free radicals and reduce oxidative stress, which is linked to cancer, heart disease, cognitive decline, and many other age-related conditions. Eating antioxidant-rich tomatoes can provide valuable protection.

Tomatoes Promote Heart Health

The antioxidant lycopene gives tomatoes their bright red hue, and also makes them excellent for cardiovascular wellness. Studies show lycopene can help lower LDL “bad” cholesterol and triglyceride levels in the blood. It also has anti-inflammatory properties that can prevent plaque buildup in arteries. Consistent tomato intake has been associated with lower risks of stroke and heart disease.

Eye Health Benefits

Adding tomatoes to your diet could help preserve vision during the aging process. They contain nutrients like vitamin A, vitamin E, and lutein that support eye health by preventing issues like cataracts and macular degeneration. The vitamin C in tomatoes also plays a role in healthy eye tissue.

May Support Bone Density

The lycopene, vitamin K, and calcium content in tomatoes can potentially help improve bone mineral density. This can allow seniors to maintain stronger, sturdier bones that are more resistant to osteoporosis and fractures.

Easy to Incorporate at Meals

Whether whole, sliced, sauced, juiced, or sundried – tomatoes are amazingly versatile and easy to enjoy frequently. Their vibrant color and juicy flavor also make dishes more appealing. Simply topping a salad, appetizer or main dish with some tomatoes can unlock all their nutritional superpowers.

Are Tomatoes Good For You?

Tomatoes aren’t just a delicious warm weather treat – they are a well-rounded superfood that can pack a big nutritional punch for seniors. Adding more tomatoes to your balanced diet is an easy way to potentially improve health in many important areas. Their disease-fighting properties give older adults another great reason to go ahead and toss some into every meal!

Want to incorporate some other superfoods into your diet? Here’s some further reading: 

• Apples, Pears, Bananas and Strokes
• Boost Your Immune System with Vitamin D
• Could Your Eating Habits Use a Boost?
• Nutrition For Seniors “Vegetable Myths”
• Seven Foods That Can Help Fight Inflammation and Ease Arthritis Pain
• Six Health Benefits Found in Mint
• The Health Benefits of Chocolate
• The Health Benefits of Strawberries