Heart Health
Vegetable of the month: Tomatoes
 Image: © Singkham/Getty Images
Vine-ripened, locally grown tomatoes are abundant in farmers' markets in August. Scientifically speaking, these vivid red (and sometimes yellow, brown, purple, or green) orbs are fruits. But the USDA, which issues the Dietary Guidelines for Americans, includes tomatoes in the red-orange vegetable group. Aim for about five to six cups per week of the foods in this group, which also includes carrots, squash, and sweet potatoes.
When good fresh tomatoes aren't available, canned tomatoes are a good substitute, especially in soups, stews, and pasta sauces. Eating tomatoes and tomato products may help lower cholesterol and improve blood vessel function, according to a 2017 article in Atherosclerosis.
To continue reading this article, you must log in.
Subscribe to Harvard Health Online for immediate access to health news and information from Harvard Medical School.
- Research health conditions
- Check your symptoms
- Prepare for a doctor's visit or test
- Find the best treatments and procedures for you
- Explore options for better nutrition and exercise
I'd like to receive access to Harvard Health Online for only $4.99 a month.
Sign Me UpAlready a member? Login ».
Disclaimer:
As a service to our readers, Harvard Health Publishing provides access to our library of archived content. Please note the date of last review or update on all articles.
No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor or other qualified clinician.
