Have you heard of the tree tomato, also called tamarillo?
This unique fruit isn’t just tasty, it’s full of nutrients and health benefits, making it a great addition to your meals.
Native to South America, the tree tomato is small, oval-shaped, and has a tangy, slightly sweet flavour.
Let’s learn about its nutritional value and how it can improve your health.
Nutritional Profile of Tree Tomato
Tree tomato is a powerhouse of essential nutrients.
Below is a breakdown of its nutritional content per 100 grams:
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 31 kcal |
| Vitamin C | 29 mg (32% DV) |
| Vitamin A | 189 mcg (21% DV) |
| Potassium | 321 mg (7% DV) |
| Fibre | 1.3 g |
| Calcium | 10 mg |
| Iron | 0.6 mg |
Tamarillo’s Antioxidant Power
Tree tomato is rich in antioxidants such as flavonoids and anthocyanins.
These compounds fight oxidative stress, reduce inflammation, and protect against chronic diseases like cancer, heart disease, and diabetes.
How Does Tree Tomato Benefit Your Health?
- Boosts Your Immune System
With lots of vitamin C, tree tomato strengthens your immune system, helping your body fight infections.
- Improves Digestion
Its fibre helps prevent constipation and supports good gut bacteria, making your digestion smooth and healthy.
- Promotes Heart Health
Potassium in tree tomatoes helps control blood pressure.
Its antioxidants can reduce bad cholesterol and prevent blockages in your arteries, which lowers the risk of heart disease.
- Makes Your Skin Glow
Vitamin C and antioxidants in tree tomatoes promote collagen production, which keeps your skin firm and youthful.
They also protect your skin from sun damage and slow down signs of ageing.
- Helps with Weight Control
Because they are low in calories and high in fibre, tree tomatoes keep you feeling full for longer.
This can help you eat less overall and support weight loss or management.
- Supports Eye Health
Vitamin A is essential for good vision.
It protects against night blindness and reduces the risk of age-related vision problems like macular degeneration.
How to Eat Tree Tomato
Fresh: Eat it raw as a snack or mix it into fruit salads.
Juice: Blend it with other fruits for a refreshing drink.
Sauces: Make chutneys, salsas, or pasta sauces.
Cooked: Add it to soups, stews, or casseroles for a tangy kick.
How to make Tamarillo Smoothie
You’ll need:
- 2 tree tomatoes (peeled)
- 1 banana
- 1 cup almond milk
Blend everything together for a delicious, healthy drink to start your day!
Storing the Tree Tomato
Keep unripe tree tomatoes at room temperature.
Once ripe, store them in the fridge in a plastic bag, and they’ll stay fresh for up to 10 days.
Conclusion
The tree tomato is a flavorful fruit that’s full of vitamins and antioxidants that benefit your body in many ways.
From improving your skin to supporting your heart and digestion, this fruit is a great choice for a healthy diet.
Add it to your meals, and enjoy its unique taste and health benefits.
Remember, eating well and staying active are the keys to feeling your best.
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