Tomato and Tamarind (Illustration - Canva)
Tomatoes and tamarinds—two tangy superfoods that have added strength to our meals for centuries. One's a luscious, red staple of salads and sauces, the other a dark brown, sticky pod that lends chutneys and curries their tasty zing. But when it comes to health, which one truly reigns supreme? Let’s find out.
Nutritional Face-off
Tomatoes are relatively low in calories at around 18 calories for every 100g, compared to tamarinds, which fetch a substantially more weighty 239 calories per 100g (from largely natural sugars). If weight-watching, then tomatoes take the win.
Tomatoes deliver a hefty dose of vitamin C, vitamin K, potassium, and folate. Tomatoes also abound with lycopene, an antioxidant linked with heart health as well as healthy skin.
Tamarind, on the other hand, are loaded with magnesium, potassium, iron, and B vitamins. Tamarind has tartaric acid present within it too, which helps serve as an antioxidant naturally. Nevertheless, since tamarind has a huge concentration of iron in it, tamarind proves to be very beneficial to those suffering from iron deficiency.
Health Benefits
Both tamarinds and tomatoes are heart-healthy. Tomatoes reduce blood pressure and cholesterol due to their lycopene content. Tamarind, on the other hand, has been found to lower bad cholesterol (LDL) and raise good cholesterol (HDL).
Tamarind has been a centuries-old natural laxative. Its pulp, full of fiber and a bit sticky, keeps things flowing along in the digestive system. Tomatoes are also high in fiber but more famous for their intestinal-friendly antioxidants, which can help decrease inflammation in the intestines.
- Immunity and Anti-Inflammatory Powers
Tomatoes are rich in vitamin C, and they aid in immunity and inflammation reduction. Tamarind contains antibacterial compounds that have been traditionally applied in preventing infections.
Surprisingly, tamarind may be ahead on this one. Although sweet, research indicates that it aids in blood sugar regulation by making the body more sensitive to insulin. Tomatoes are very low in sugar but do not have as direct an effect on blood glucose management.
Get Latest News Live on Times Now along with Breaking News and Top Headlines from Health and around the world.
