The water content of tomatoes is around 95%—the other 5% consists mainly of carbohydrates and fiber. Tomatoes are a good source of fiber, providing about 1.5 grams per average-sized tomato. Most of the fibers (87%) in tomatoes are insoluble, in the form of hemicellulose, cellulose, and lignin.
Here are the nutrients in a small (100-gram) raw tomato:
The main plant compounds in tomatoes are:
- Lycopene. A red pigment and antioxidant, lycopene has been extensively studied for its beneficial health effects.
- Beta carotene. An antioxidant that often gives foods a yellow or orange hue, beta carotene is converted into vitamin A in your body.
- Naringenin. Found in tomato skin, this flavonoid has been shown to decrease inflammation and protect against various diseases in mice.
- Chlorogenic acid. A powerful antioxidant compound, chlorogenic acid may lower blood pressure in people with hypertension or elevated blood pressure.
Did you know all these nutrition facts about tomatoes? Please tell us what you think.
