Disadvantages of eating raw tomato

 

The Surprising Disadvantages of Eating Tomato

Tomatoes are one of the most popular fruits in the world, consumed raw or cooked in a wide variety of dishes. They are rich in vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and fiber, and have been associated with numerous health benefits, such as reducing the risk of cancer, heart disease, and stroke. However, despite their many virtues, tomatoes also have some disadvantages that are often overlooked or unknown. In this blog, we will explore the surprising downsides of eating tomato and how to mitigate or avoid them.

1.Tomato Allergy:

            Tomato allergy is a rare but real condition  that can cause various symptoms, such as skin rash, itching, swelling, hives, sneezing, runny nose, watery eyes, asthma, abdominal pain, diarrhea, and even anaphylaxis in severe cases. The allergy is triggered by the proteins in tomato, particularly the ones in the skin, seeds, and juice. Some people may develop the allergy later in life, while others may be born with it or inherit it from their parents. If you suspect that you have tomato allergy, you should consult an allergist for diagnosis and treatment, and avoid consuming tomato in any form.

3.Tomato Acid:

           Tomatoes are naturally acidic, with a pH level between 4.3 and 4.9, which can cause acid reflux, heartburn, or indigestion in some people. The acidity of tomato is mainly due to the presence of citric acid, malic acid, and ascorbic acid, which can stimulate the production of stomach acid and irritate the esophagus. The acidity of tomato can also affect the absorption of some medications, such as antacids or antibiotics, and reduce their efficacy. To reduce the acid level of tomato, one can add baking soda, sugar, or milk to it, or choose low-acid tomato varieties, such as San Marzano or yellow tomatoes.

4.Tomato Oxalate:

          Tomatoes are also high in oxalate, a natural compound found in many plant foods that can form crystals and stones in the kidneys and urinary tract of some individuals. The oxalate in tomato is mainly concentrated in the skin and seeds, and can be released when the tomato is crushed or cooked. This can lead to symptoms such as pain, blood in urine, urinary frequency, and kidney damage. People who have a history of kidney stones, hyperoxaluria, or calcium oxalate nephropathy should limit or avoid tomato intake, or eat tomato in moderation and with plenty of fluids to flush out the oxalate.

5.Tomato Pesticides:

              Tomatoes are often sprayed with pesticides to prevent or control pests, diseases, and weeds, which can pose health risks to consumers and the environment. Some of the commonly used pesticides on tomato include organophosphates, carbamates, pyrethroids, and neonicotinoids, which can cause acute or chronic poisoning, neurological