Calories in 1 Tomato: A Quick Guide to Tomato Nutrition
If you’re watching your calorie intake, you may be wondering how many calories are in a single tomato. Tomatoes are a popular fruit (yes, they’re technically a fruit!) that are often used in salads, sandwiches, and other dishes. They’re also a great source of nutrients, including vitamins C and K, potassium, and lycopene.
Understanding the calorie content of tomatoes can help you make informed choices about your diet. While tomatoes are generally low in calories, the exact number can vary depending on the size and preparation of the tomato. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the nutritional profile of a tomato, how to measure its calorie content, and some tips for incorporating tomatoes into your diet.
Key Takeaways
- Tomatoes are a nutritious fruit that are low in calories and high in vitamins and minerals.
- The calorie content of a tomato can vary depending on its size and preparation.
- There are many ways to incorporate tomatoes into your diet, including adding them to salads, sandwiches, and sauces.
Nutritional Profile of a Tomato
Tomatoes are a great addition to your diet as they are low in calories, yet packed with essential nutrients. One small tomato provides only 16-67 calories, depending on its size and variety.
Tomatoes are an excellent source of vitamin C, fiber, and vitamin K. They also contain antioxidants, such as lycopene, which can help protect against certain types of cancer and heart disease.
Here is a breakdown of the nutritional content of a small tomato:
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 16-67 |
| Protein | 0.8g |
| Carbohydrates | 3.5g |
| Fat | 0.2g |
| Vitamin C | 21% of the Daily Value (DV) |
| Fiber | 1.5g (6% DV) |
| Vitamin K | 7% DV |
| Potassium | 5% DV |
Tomatoes are also a good source of other essential vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin A, vitamin E, and iron.
In addition to their nutritional benefits, tomatoes are versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes, from salads to sauces. So, next time you’re looking for a healthy and flavorful ingredient, reach for a tomato!
Understanding Calories
When it comes to maintaining a healthy diet, understanding the caloric content of the foods you eat is crucial. In this section, we’ll take a closer look at the caloric content of tomatoes and how they compare to other vegetables.
Caloric Content of Tomatoes
Tomatoes are a low-calorie food, making them an excellent choice for those watching their calorie intake. According to Verywell Fit, one small tomato (2 2/5″ in diameter) provides only 16 calories. Additionally, tomatoes are high in fiber, which can help you feel full for longer periods of time.
Comparison With Other Vegetables
Compared to other vegetables, tomatoes are relatively low in calories. For example, one medium carrot contains around 25 calories, while one medium ear of corn contains around 77 calories. However, it’s important to note that the caloric content of vegetables can vary depending on how they are prepared. For example, adding butter or oil to your vegetables can significantly increase their caloric content.
Overall, including tomatoes in your diet is a great way to add flavor and nutrition without adding a lot of calories. Whether you enjoy them raw in salads or cooked in sauces and stews, tomatoes are a versatile and healthy addition to any meal.
Health Benefits of Tomatoes
Tomatoes are a nutrient-dense food that provides a range of health benefits. Here are some of the benefits of including tomatoes in your diet:
1. Low in Calories
Tomatoes are low in calories, making them an ideal food for weight loss. One small tomato contains only 16-23 calories, depending on its size. They are also low in fat and high in fiber, which can help you feel full and satisfied.
2. Rich in Vitamins and Minerals
Tomatoes are an excellent source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin K, potassium, and folate. Vitamin C is an antioxidant that helps protect your cells from damage, while vitamin K is essential for blood clotting. Potassium is important for maintaining healthy blood pressure, and folate is essential for cell growth and development.
3. May Reduce the Risk of Chronic Diseases
Tomatoes contain lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that has been linked to a reduced risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, cancer, and diabetes. Lycopene may help protect your cells from damage caused by free radicals, which can lead to chronic diseases.
4. May Improve Digestive Health
Tomatoes are a good source of fiber, which can help improve digestive health. Fiber helps keep your digestive system running smoothly and can prevent constipation. Tomatoes also contain compounds that may help reduce inflammation in the digestive tract.
5. Versatile and Delicious
Tomatoes are a versatile and delicious food that can be added to a wide range of dishes. They can be eaten raw, cooked, or canned, and can be used in salads, soups, sauces, and more. Tomatoes are also available in a range of colors and sizes, including red, yellow, orange, and green.
How to Measure Calories in Tomatoes
Measuring the calories in tomatoes is a simple process that can be done using a food scale or by using the nutritional information provided on the packaging. Here are a few steps to help you measure the calories in tomatoes:
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Use a food scale: If you have a food scale, you can use it to measure the weight of the tomato. Once you know the weight, you can use the nutritional information to calculate the calories. For example, if a tomato weighs 100 grams and contains 18 calories per 100 grams, then the tomato contains 18 calories.
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Use nutritional information: If you don’t have a food scale, you can use the nutritional information provided on the packaging or online. Look for the serving size and the number of calories per serving. For example, if the serving size is one medium tomato and it contains 22 calories, then that’s how many calories are in that tomato.
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Consider the preparation method: Keep in mind that the calories in tomatoes can vary depending on how they are prepared. For example, adding oil or cheese to a tomato dish will increase the calorie count.
It’s important to note that the calorie count of a tomato can vary depending on its size and variety. However, tomatoes are generally low in calories and a great addition to any healthy diet.
Incorporating Tomatoes Into Your Diet
Tomatoes are a versatile vegetable that can be incorporated into your diet in many ways. Here are some easy and delicious ways to enjoy this nutritious food:
1. Fresh Tomato Salad
One of the easiest ways to enjoy tomatoes is by making a simple tomato salad. Simply slice up some fresh tomatoes and add some fresh herbs, salt, pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil. You can also add some fresh mozzarella or feta cheese for extra flavor.
2. Tomato Soup
Tomato soup is a classic comfort food that is easy to make and delicious. You can make a simple tomato soup by sautéing some onions and garlic in a pot, adding some chopped tomatoes, and simmering until the tomatoes are soft. Then blend the mixture until it is smooth and add some cream or coconut milk for a creamy texture.
3. Tomato Sauce
Tomato sauce is a staple in many households and can be used in a variety of dishes. You can make a simple tomato sauce by sautéing some onions and garlic in a pot, adding some chopped tomatoes, and simmering until the tomatoes are soft. Then blend the mixture until it is smooth and add some fresh herbs like basil or oregano for extra flavor.
4. Stuffed Tomatoes
Stuffed tomatoes are a delicious and healthy way to enjoy this nutritious vegetable. Simply cut the top off of a large tomato and scoop out the seeds and pulp. Then fill the tomato with your favorite stuffing like quinoa, rice, or ground beef and bake in the oven until the tomato is soft and the stuffing is cooked through.
5. Tomato Juice
Tomato juice is a refreshing and healthy drink that is easy to make at home. Simply blend some fresh tomatoes with some water and strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve. You can also add some fresh herbs like basil or parsley for extra flavor.
Incorporating tomatoes into your diet is easy and delicious. Whether you enjoy them raw in a salad or cooked in a soup or sauce, tomatoes are a nutritious and low-calorie food that can help you maintain a healthy weight and improve your overall health.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many calories can I find in a medium-sized raw tomato?
One medium-sized raw tomato contains approximately 22 calories. Tomatoes are low in calories, making them an excellent choice for those looking to maintain a healthy weight. Tomatoes are also a good source of fiber, which can help you feel full and satisfied, preventing overeating and snacking on unhealthy foods.
What’s the nutritional value of a 100g serving of tomatoes?
A 100g serving of tomatoes provides approximately 18 calories, 0.9g of protein, 3.9g of carbohydrates, and 0.2g of fat. Tomatoes are also an excellent source of vitamin C, fiber, and vitamin K.
Can you tell me the calorie count for a single cherry tomato?
Cherry tomatoes are smaller in size compared to a typical medium-sized tomato. They contain approximately 3 calories per tomato, making them an excellent choice for guilt-free snacking.
Are tomatoes considered a low-calorie food?
Yes, tomatoes are considered a low-calorie food. They are also high in nutrients, making them an excellent addition to a healthy diet.
What’s the amount of protein in one medium tomato?
One medium tomato contains approximately 1.5 grams of protein. While this may not seem like a lot, tomatoes are still a good source of protein, especially when combined with other protein-rich foods.
How do the calories and carbs compare in a whole tomato?
A whole tomato contains approximately 22 calories and 4.8g of carbohydrates. Tomatoes are low in calories and carbs, making them an excellent choice for those looking to maintain a healthy weight or manage their carbohydrate intake.
