How to Eat Tomatoes for Best Results

An article on the Medlatec General Hospital website, medically reviewed by Dr. Duong Ngoc Van, provides the following important notes:

• Possible tomato allergies: Although rare, tomato allergies can occur. People who are allergic to pollen may have a higher risk of being allergic to tomatoes. Symptoms may include itchy mouth, swollen lips or mouth, itchy or swollen throat. People with latex allergies may also react to tomatoes.

• Limit to 1–2 tomatoes per day: While tomatoes are healthy, moderation is key.

• Avoid unripe (green) tomatoes: Unripe tomatoes contain high levels of alkaloids, which can cause food poisoning. Symptoms include nausea, fatigue, and excessive saliva production.

• Do not eat tomatoes on an empty stomach: When the stomach is empty, compounds such as pectin and phenolic resins in tomatoes can react with stomach acid and interfere with digestion. Over time, the habit of eating unripe or green tomatoes can lead to gastric ulcers.

• Avoid eating tomato seeds: This may help prevent digestive issues and reduce the risk of appendicitis.

• Soak and wash thoroughly before eating, especially when consuming raw tomatoes.

These are the benefits you can gain by eating tomatoes properly. Eat them the right way to make the most of their health-boosting effects!