Did you know that 1/2 cup of diced tomato with vegetables contains only 45 calories? Tomatoes are a versatile ingredient used in various cuisines worldwide. This article will explore the nutrient value, health benefits, recipe ideas, and much more about tomato, diced w/vegetables to help you make informed decisions about your diet.
Tomatoes are a good source of vitamin C, potassium, fiber, and antioxidants. One serving of 1/2 cup diced tomato with vegetables provides approximately 20% of the daily value of vitamin C, necessary for immunity, skin health, and iron absorption. They are also low in calories, making them a great addition to your weight loss diet plan.
Whether you add them to your salad, sandwich, pasta, or make a sauce or soup, diced tomatoes with vegetables are an excellent way to incorporate more nutrients and flavor into your meals without adding extra calories. Let's dive deeper into the nutrition value and health benefits of diced tomatoes with vegetables.
Calories in 1/2 Cup Tomato, Diced W/Vegetables
Tomatoes are a low-calorie food. One serving of 1/2 cup diced tomato with vegetables contains only 45 calories. That's less than half the calories of a medium-sized apple.
Nutrient Value per Serving
Tomatoes are a rich source of several vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, potassium, fiber, vitamin K1, and antioxidants like lycopene and beta-carotene. Here is a breakdown of the nutrient value for one serving of 1/2 cup diced tomato with vegetables:
- calories: 45
- Protein: 1.5g
- Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Vitamin C: 20% DV
- Potassium: 8% DV
- Vitamin K: 7% DV
- Vitamin A: 10% DV
Vitamins and Minerals in Tomato, Diced W/Vegetables
Tomatoes are a nutrition-packed vegetable with several vitamins and minerals. Here are some of the essential vitamins and minerals in diced tomato with vegetables:
- Vitamin C: Tomatoes are an excellent source of vitamin C, necessary for maintaining healthy skin, building collagen, and boosting immunity. One serving of diced tomato with vegetables provides about 20% of the daily value of vitamin C.
- Potassium: Diced tomatoes are rich in potassium, an essential mineral for nerve, muscle, and heart function. One serving provides approximately 8% of the daily value.
- Fiber: Tomatoes contain fiber, which helps regulate digestion and keeps you full for longer with fewer calories.
- Vitamin K: Diced tomatoes are also an excellent source of vitamin K, essential for blood clotting, strong bones, and healthy brain function.
Health Benefits of Tomato, Diced W/Vegetables
Tomatoes are a nutrient-dense food with several health benefits. Here are some of the health benefits of diced tomatoes with vegetables:
- Prevention of chronic diseases: The lycopene in tomatoes acts as an antioxidant that helps protect against chronic diseases like heart disease, cancer, and diabetes.
- Weight loss: Diced tomatoes are low in calories and high in fiber, making them a great addition to a weight loss diet plan. They help you feel full longer and prevent overeating.
- Blood sugar management: The fiber and potassium in tomatoes can help regulate blood sugar levels, making them an excellent food for people with diabetes.
- Reduced inflammation: The antioxidants and vitamins in tomatoes can help reduce inflammation in the body, which can lower the risk of several chronic diseases.
Recipe Ideas with Tomato, Diced W/Vegetables
Diced tomatoes with vegetables can be used in various recipes to add flavor, texture, and nutrition. Here are some recipe ideas to inspire you:
- Tomato and vegetable soup: A hearty and nutritious soup made with diced tomatoes, vegetables, and herbs.
- Cheesy tomato pasta: A creamy pasta dish made with diced tomatoes, cheese, herbs, and pasta of your choice.
- Tomato and cucumber salad: A refreshing salad made with diced tomatoes, cucumber, onion, and a tangy dressing.
Ways to Store Tomato, Diced W/Vegetables
To store diced tomatoes with vegetables, keep them in an airtight container in a refrigerator.
Differences Between Fresh and Canned Tomato, Diced W/Vegetables
Canned diced tomatoes are often cooked and contain added salt, preservatives, and sugar. Fresh diced tomatoes, on the other hand, are raw, unprocessed, and contain all the natural nutrients and flavor. However, canned diced tomatoes are more shelf-stable and convenient to use in recipes. When possible, choose fresh diced tomatoes over canned versions for maximum nutrition and flavor.
Tomato, Diced W/Vegetables for Weight Loss
Tomatoes, including diced tomatoes with vegetables, are an excellent food for weight loss. Here's why:
- Low in calories: One serving of 1/2 cup diced tomato with vegetables contains just 45 calories.
- High in fiber: The fiber content in diced tomatoes helps to keep you full for longer, reducing overeating and snacking.
- Water content: Tomatoes are 95% water, which helps to promote hydration and aid in digestion.
Precautions While Consuming Tomato, Diced W/Vegetables
While diced tomatoes with vegetables are generally safe to consume and offer many health benefits, some precautions should be taken.
- Allergy: Some people may develop an allergic reaction to tomatoes or experience digestive issues like gas, bloating, or diarrhea.
- Interference with medication: Tomatoes can interfere with blood-thinning medications like warfarin, so consult your doctor if you take any medication.
Tomato, Diced W/Vegetables Vs Other Vegetables
Diced tomatoes with vegetables are loaded with nutrients and offer several health benefits. Here's how diced tomatoes compare to other vegetables:
- Spinach: Spinach is a superfood with several vitamins and minerals, but diced tomatoes contain more vitamin C and potassium than spinach.
- Cucumber: Cucumbers are also low in calories and high in water content, but diced tomatoes contain more fiber, vitamin K, and vitamin C than cucumbers.
- Mushrooms: Mushrooms are a nutritious and low-calorie vegetable, but they do not contain as many vitamins and minerals as diced tomatoes with vegetables.
Tomatoes are nutrition-packed vegetables that offer several health benefits. Whether you consume them fresh or canned, including diced tomatoes with vegetables in your diet is an excellent way to add nutrients, flavor, and texture to your meals.
5 FAQ About 1/2 Cup Tomato, Diced W/Vegetables
1. What nutrients are found in tomatoes?
Tomatoes are packed with nutrients such as vitamin C, potassium, folate, and vitamin K. They are also a good source of fiber and contain powerful antioxidants.
2. Can tomatoes help with weight loss?
Yes, tomatoes are a low-calorie food that can be helpful for weight loss. One cup of diced tomatoes contains only around 32 calories, making it a filling snack or ingredient in meals without adding too many calories.
3. Are there any health benefits to eating tomatoes?
Yes, there are several health benefits to eating tomatoes. They have been linked to reduced risk of heart disease, improved skin health, and improved digestion.
4. How can I incorporate diced tomatoes into my meals?
Diced tomatoes can be added to salads, pasta dishes, soups, and even omelets. They can also be used as a topping for grilled meats or as a filling for sandwiches and wraps.
5. Can I buy pre-diced tomatoes or should I dice them myself?
You can buy pre-diced tomatoes or you can dice them yourself. Buying pre-diced tomatoes can save time, but some people prefer to dice them themselves for a fresher taste and texture.