How many calories is a slice of tomato?

How Many Calories is a Slice of Tomato?

When it comes to healthy eating, many of us focus on counting calories and making sure we’re getting the right balance of nutrients. But have you ever stopped to think about how many calories are in a simple slice of tomato? It may seem like a small thing, but the answer might surprise you.

The Straight Answer:

A single slice of tomato typically contains around 5-7 calories. That’s right, just a handful of calories for a juicy, flavorful slice of one of the world’s most nutritious foods.

What Makes Tomatoes So Low in Calories?

Tomatoes are a type of fruit (yes, they’re a fruit!) that are very low in calories and rich in nutrients. Here are some reasons why they’re such a great choice:

• High water content: Tomatoes are made up of around 95% water, which makes them very low in calories. This also makes them a great choice for hydration and digestion.
• Low in carbohydrates: Tomatoes contain very few carbohydrates, making them a good option for those watching their carb intake.
• High in fiber: Tomatoes are a good source of dietary fiber, which can help with digestion and keep you feeling full and satisfied.

The Nutrition Benefits of Tomatoes

While tomatoes are low in calories, they’re high in nutrients. Here are some of the key benefits:

• Lycopene: Tomatoes are a rich source of lycopene, an antioxidant that has been linked to reduced risk of certain cancers and heart disease.
• Vitamin C: Tomatoes are a good source of vitamin C, which is important for immune function and overall health.
• Potassium: Tomatoes are a good source of potassium, which can help lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of heart disease.
• Folate: Tomatoes are a good source of folate, which is important for cell growth and development.

The Benefits of Eating Tomatoes

Eating tomatoes has been linked to a number of health benefits, including:

• Reduced risk of heart disease: The antioxidants and fiber in tomatoes may help reduce the risk of heart disease by reducing inflammation and improving cholesterol levels.
• Improved eye health: The antioxidants in tomatoes may help reduce the risk of age-related macular degeneration.
• Reduced risk of certain cancers: The lycopene in tomatoes has been linked to a reduced risk of certain cancers, including prostate, breast, and lung cancer.

Conclusion

So there you have it – a slice of tomato typically contains around 5-7 calories. But what makes tomatoes so special is the array of nutrients and health benefits they provide. Whether you’re looking to reduce your calorie intake or boost your nutrient levels, tomatoes are a great choice.

Tips for Incorporating More Tomatoes into Your Diet

Here are some tips for incorporating more tomatoes into your diet:

• Add them to your favorite salads: Tomatoes are a great addition to green salads, pasta salads, and more.
• Use them in sandwiches: Add sliced tomatoes to your favorite sandwiches for a burst of flavor and nutrition.
• Make a tomato sauce: Cook down fresh tomatoes with some garlic and herbs to make a delicious and healthy sauce for pasta, meatballs, or veggies.
• Add them to your omelets: Tomatoes are a great addition to omelets, adding flavor, texture, and nutrients.

Tomato Nutrition Facts

Here are the nutrition facts for a single tomato (approximately 1 medium-sized tomato):

Remember, a slice of tomato typically contains around 5-7 calories. So next time you’re snacking or cooking, be sure to add some fresh tomatoes to your plate!