The secret to healthy and glowing skin is home made tomato juice. This juice made from the world famous succulent, red juicy vegetable is a kitchen favorite in most homes because of its nutritional value that is essential for not only your skin but overall body wellbeing. Tomato juice is a particularly good way to consume them.
Rich in vitamin B1, B2,C and K, beta-carotene, proteins, iron, potassium and many more essential minerals. These minerals have oxidative properties that help regulate the digestive and circulatory systems.
Tomatoes are best known for lycopene – a nutrient in tomatoes has been linked to improvement in bone strengthening and heart health. Lycopene lowers cholesterol levels allowing free flow of blood to the heart, lowering heart risks and blood pressure.
Tomato juice benefits
Whether cooked or raw, tomatoes are great accompaniments in vegetable salads, juices, sauté tomato soups and sauces.
Tomato juice stands out as a versatile and nutrient-packed elixir that not only tantalizes the taste buds but also offers a plethora of health benefits. From supporting cardiovascular health to boosting skin radiance, let’s delve into the myriad advantages that make tomato juice a must-add to your daily regimen.
- Rich in Essential Nutrients:
Tomato juice is a nutritional powerhouse, delivering a substantial dose of vitamins and minerals. Packed with vitamin C, potassium, and folate, it supports immune function, helps regulate blood pressure, and promotes overall well-being. Additionally, tomatoes are a great source of antioxidants like lycopene, known for its potential in combating oxidative stress and reducing the risk of chronic diseases. - Heart Health Champion:
Numerous studies have highlighted the positive impact of tomato juice on cardiovascular health. The potassium content aids in maintaining healthy blood pressure levels, while the antioxidants contribute to reducing cholesterol levels. Regular consumption of tomato juice can be a flavorful strategy for promoting heart health and mitigating the risk of cardiovascular diseases. - Weight Management Ally:
For those on a weight management journey, tomato juice can be a valuable addition to your arsenal. Low in calories and high in fiber, it provides a feeling of satiety, helping control cravings and prevent overeating. The natural sugars in tomatoes also make it a healthier alternative to sugary beverages, supporting your weight loss goals. - Skin Savior:
The wealth of vitamins A and C in tomato juice contributes to healthy and radiant skin. These vitamins play a crucial role in collagen production, promoting skin elasticity and reducing the signs of aging. Additionally, the antioxidants in tomatoes help protect the skin from environmental damage, making tomato juice a delicious and natural way to nourish your skin from the inside out. - Hydration with a Twist:
Staying hydrated is paramount for overall health, and tomato juice offers a flavorful alternative to plain water. With its high water content and refreshing taste, tomato juice can be a hydrating beverage that keeps you quenched while providing essential nutrients. - Digestive Health Support:
The fiber content in home made tomato juice aids in digestion and promotes a healthy gut. Including tomato juice in your diet can contribute to regular bowel movements and may help prevent digestive issues. The natural acidity of tomatoes also stimulates the production of digestive enzymes, further supporting the digestive process.
How to get your tomatoes ready for making juice
If you are worried about pesticides and lead content, you can simply remove toxic residue by washing your tomatoes carefully in 2% salt water.
Also soaking your tomatoes for 20 minutes in water containing 10% vinegar or lemon juice gets rid of about 80% of pesticide residue. This is a good way of getting rid of residues that the salt water may have missed. You can use these methods with other fruits and vegetables too. It may seem tedious but when you look at the effects of chemicals and pesticides in our systems and also consider the recent damning report that lots of fruits and vegetables are highly contaminated with these, then it is well worth your while.
How to make home made tomato juice
This is one of the best ways of taking up tomato nutrients. When picking out tomatoes at the store for juice, go for big firm tomatoes with a rich red color. They should not be wrinkled, with black spots or soft spots. Get as many ripe tomatoes as you can. But not to worry a little sugar flavor will churn out the acidic taste if the tomatoes are not too ripe. Our recipe below makes up to 5 glasses of thick tomato juice.
Ingredients
- 10 ripe chopped tomatoes
- A ¼ cup chopped celery
- 1 large chopped onion
- 2 Tablespoons of sugar
- 1 teaspoon table salt
- A Pinch of black pepper
- 2 teaspoons of Tabasco sauce
- ¼ cup Lemon juice/vinegar
Method
-Mix all ingredients in a sufuria and simmer with 1 cup of water for about 25 minutes. Stir regularly until all tomatoes are pulp and the mixture is soupy and thick.
– Sieve the mixture through a sieve or food mill. Then leave to cool.
-Put in a jug and chill in the refrigerator for a while before serving. This one can last for 3 three days when refrigerated. Enjoy!
