Tomatoes, technically fruits, enrich curries, sauces, soups, and pasta with their nutrient-rich and healthy properties. The health benefits of tomatoes need no explanation; they are well-known around the world for being among the most highly nutritious fruits. Tomatoes are encouraged to be part of one’s diet, as they have proven to be of great use in terms of health.
The fruit’s health benefits include fighting against cancer, improving skin and hair health, regulating blood pressure, and improving heart health. It is recommended if you want to lead a healthy lifestyle, to have a fair amount of tomatoes every day.
However, just like any other thing, having too much of anything is not good. This applies to tomatoes as well; they have dangerous side effects when consumed in excess. The effects vary from digestive troubles to even diarrhoea, as well as kidney problems and, in some cases, body aches.
Studies have shown that having tomatoes in excess may cause serious harm to one’s body. Hence, they need to take them in the right proportion. In this guide, we look at some of the side effects of eating too many tomatoes. Read on to find out more.
Surprisingly, eating too much tomato fruit can contribute to the formation of kidney stones. The tomato fruit contains high levels of calcium and oxalate. When you consume them in large amounts, your body struggles to metabolize and eliminate these compounds effectively. As a result, they can build up and lead to kidney stones. Always consult with a health expert about the right amount of tomatoes for your diet to avoid unintentional harm.
Eating tomato fruit can cause swelling and pain in your joints. This happens due to a compound called solanine, which can accumulate calcium in your tissues, leading to inflammation. If you notice joint pain after eating tomatoes, it might be worth reducing your intake.
Solanum lycopersicum can sometimes carry the bacterium Salmonella, which can cause diarrhoea. Therefore, it’s crucial to wash your tomatoes thoroughly before eating them. Studies have shown that tomatoes rank among the top ten bacteria-prone fruits. While diarrhoea is rare for those without tomato intolerance, it’s still important to handle them carefully.
Excessive consumption of lycopene, a beneficial compound found in solanum lycopersicum, can lead to a condition called lycopenodermia. This condition can cause discolouration of the skin. Although lycopene is generally good for your health, consuming more than the recommended amount of 75 mg per day may result in this issue.
Solanum lycopersicum also contains histamine, which can trigger skin rashes and allergies in some people, particularly those sensitive to solanum lycopersicum. Symptoms may include swelling of the mouth, tongue, and face. If you suspect you have a tomato allergy, consult your doctor about your consumption levels.
Tomatoes are a delicious and healthy addition to your diet, but moderation is key. Be mindful of your intake to enjoy their benefits without experiencing negative side effects. If you have any concerns about how many tomatoes you should eat, it’s best to speak with a healthcare professional.