Is tomato soup good for you? Absolutely! Packed with vitamins and antioxidants, this soup offers a plethora of health benefits that make it a nutritious addition to your diet.
The key ingredient, tomatoes, is a rich source of lycopene, the primary carotenoid responsible for the vibrant red hue.
Regular consumption of lycopene has been associated with a reduction in LDL cholesterol, known as “bad” cholesterol, a significant risk factor for cardiovascular diseases, as noted in a 2011 review in the international health journal Maturitas.
Additionally, tomatoes contain beta carotene, the second main carotenoid, which converts into vitamin A upon consumption.
According to a 2022 fact sheet by the US National Institutes of Health (NIH), vitamin A is crucial for maintaining eyesight and a robust immune system.
The cooking process further enhances the bioavailability of lycopene and beta carotene by breaking down cell walls in tomatoes. This makes opting for tomato soup a smart choice, especially when compared to consuming raw tomatoes.
Tomatoes, along with popular soup aromatics like garlic and onion, contribute to the soup’s vitamin C content. Vitamin C promotes collagen production for healthy skin and aids in wound healing, according to NIH.
As a water-soluble vitamin, vitamin C remains intact in soup ingredients even when water is added to the pot. The water content in tomato soup not only enhances nutrition but also helps keep you hydrated.
Beyond vitamins, tomatoes are rich in potassium, which is known to lower the risk of high blood pressure, cardiovascular disease, stroke, and coronary heart disease.
The dietary fiber in fresh tomatoes supports digestive health, boosts immunity, regulates bowel movements, and promotes heart health.
One notable benefit of tomato soup is its association with a lower risk of cancer-related mortality, according to a 2020 US study published in Public Health Nutrition.
The study, based on data from over 22,000 adults in The National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, highlights the potential anti-cancer properties of tomatoes and their lycopene content.
For an optimal nutritional boost, consider preparing homemade tomato soup to avoid the excess sodium and added sugars often found in store-bought varieties.
Get creative with toppings like basil leaves for freshness and added immune protection.
Adding chickpeas, packed with fiber and protein, or pumpkin seeds, rich in antioxidants and various essential nutrients, can further enhance the healthful qualities of your tomato soup.
