Tomatoes are a food that housewives often use in their diet because they not only enhance the flavor of the dish but also bring many health benefits, especially for the respiratory system.
Many modern nutritional studies show that tomatoes contain high levels of antioxidants, especially lycopene - a compound that can protect lung cells from damage caused by pollution, smoke and free radicals.
However, to maximize this effect, eating tomatoes at the right time and properly plays a very important role.
The best time to eat tomatoes is in the morning or at lunch, when the stomach and digestive system are active. At this time, the body can easily absorb lycopene, vitamins A, C, E in tomatoes, helping to increase resistance and purify the lungs more effectively. Since lycopene is a fat-soluble substance, eating tomatoes when combined with olive oil or dishes with healthy fats will increase the ability to absorb nutrients.
Eating cooked tomatoes instead of eating them raw also has higher benefits for the lungs. When heated, the amount of lycopene in tomatoes is released more, making it easier for the body to absorb and promote anti-inflammatory effects, reducing oxidative stress - the main cause of chronic lung diseases such as bronchitis.
However, tomatoes should not be eaten at home or late at night because the natural acid in tomatoes can irritate the stomach and affect sleep.
Housewives should also note that if there are family members with digestive problems or weak stomachs, they should only eat tomatoes 30 minutes after meals to avoid discomfort.
