1 serving of tomato sauce contains only 20 calories, making it a great low calorie alternative to regular sauces. Tomato sauce is not only delicious, it is also a healthy source of nutrition.
Tomatoes are a great source of vitamins and minerals including vitamin C and antioxidants. One serving of tomato sauce contains significant amounts of these nutrients. Additionally, tomato sauce is low in fat and cholesterol, making it a healthy choice for those looking to maintain or improve their heart health.
In this article, we'll explore the many health benefits of tomato sauce and why it should be a regular part of your diet.
Low Calorie Alternative to Regular Sauces
Tomato sauce is an excellent option for those watching their calorie intake. With only 20 calories per serving, it can be used as a low calorie alternative to more calorie dense sauces. Tomato sauce can be used in a variety of dishes including pasta, pizza, and as a dipping sauce for appetizers. It adds flavor without adding extra calories. Making the switch from calorie dense sauces to tomato sauce is an easy and healthy way to reduce your daily calorie intake.
Rich in Vitamin C and Antioxidants
Tomatoes are a rich source of vitamin C and antioxidants. One serving of tomato sauce contains a significant amount of both of these nutrients. Vitamin C is essential for a healthy immune system and helps the body absorb iron. Antioxidants are important for neutralizing harmful free radicals that can damage cells. Incorporating tomato sauce into your diet is an easy way to get a boost of these important nutrients.
Tomato sauce is an excellent source of lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that has been shown to promote heart health. Studies have shown that diets high in lycopene are associated with a reduced risk of heart disease. Additionally, tomato sauce is low in fat and cholesterol, making it a heart-healthy choice. Adding tomato sauce to your meals is an easy and tasty way to support your heart health.
Reduces Risk of Certain Cancers
Lycopene, the antioxidant found in tomatoes and tomato sauce, has been found to reduce the risk of certain types of cancer, including prostate, lung, and stomach cancer. Additionally, tomatoes contain other important compounds such as flavonoids and carotenoids that may also have cancer-fighting properties. Incorporating tomato sauce into your diet may help reduce your risk of certain types of cancer.
Improves Digestion
Tomatoes are a good source of fiber, which is important for a healthy digestive system. Fiber helps to keep the digestive system moving and prevents constipation. Additionally, fiber can help to lower cholesterol levels and regulate blood sugar levels. Adding tomato sauce to your meals is an easy and tasty way to get more fiber into your diet.
Increases Immunity
Tomato sauce is a good source of vitamin C, which is important for a healthy immune system. Vitamin C helps to support white blood cell function, which is essential for fighting off infections and diseases. Additionally, vitamin C is an antioxidant that helps to protect cells from damage. Incorporating tomato sauce into your diet is an easy way to give your immune system a boost.
Boosts Eye Health
Tomatoes are a good source of lutein and zeaxanthin, two important nutrients for eye health. These nutrients help to protect the eyes from damage and may reduce the risk of age-related macular degeneration, a common eye condition that can lead to vision loss in older adults. Adding tomato sauce to your meals is an easy and tasty way to support your eye health.
Regulates Blood Sugar Levels
Tomatoes are a good source of fiber, which can help to regulate blood sugar levels. Additionally, tomatoes contain chromium, a mineral that helps to regulate blood sugar levels and may be beneficial for people with diabetes. Incorporating tomato sauce into your meals is an easy and tasty way to help regulate your blood sugar levels.
Lowers Cholesterol
Tomato sauce is low in fat and cholesterol, making it a good choice for those looking to lower their cholesterol levels. Additionally, tomatoes contain compounds such as niacin and fiber that may help to lower cholesterol levels. Adding tomato sauce to your meals is an easy and tasty way to help lower your cholesterol levels.
Enhances Flavor of Different Dishes
Tomato sauce is a versatile ingredient that can be used to enhance the flavor of a variety of dishes. It can be used as a topping for pasta or pizza, as a dipping sauce for appetizers, or as a base for soups and stews. Additionally, tomato sauce can be flavored with herbs and spices to create a customized flavor profile. Incorporating tomato sauce into your meals is an easy and tasty way to add flavor and nutrition.
A tomato may be a fruit, but it is a singular fruit. A savory fruit. A fruit that has ambitions far beyond the ambitions of other fruits.
Frequently Asked Questions About Tomato Sauce
1. How many calories are in tomato sauce?
One serving of tomato sauce contains about 20 calories.
2. Is tomato sauce healthy?
Tomato sauce is generally considered to be healthy as it contains lycopene, a powerful antioxidant. However, some store-bought varieties may be high in sugar and sodium, so it is important to read labels and choose a brand with limited added ingredients.
3. How can I use tomato sauce?
Tomato sauce can be used in a variety of ways, such as a pizza sauce, pasta sauce, dipping sauce, or as a base for soups and stews.
4. Can I make tomato sauce at home?
Yes, tomato sauce can easily be made at home using fresh or canned tomatoes, garlic, herbs, and olive oil. There are many recipes available online to suit individual preferences.
5. How should I store tomato sauce?
Tomato sauce should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or in the freezer for up to 6 months.