Health Benefits of Tomatillos

Tomatillos are a small delicious spherical-shaped vegetable with a green color that originates from Mexico and is a member of the nightshade family the same family as potato, eggplant, ground cherry, chili pepper, and tomato. In appearance and in the name they resemble tomatoes, but they are related a lot more closely to cape gooseberries. It is used as a primary ingredient in various sauces for example in popular Mexican green sauces.

Tomatillos can be also prepared in different ways for culinary uses (steamed, fried, or broiled) just like traditional tomatoes. The health benefits of Tomatillos are coming from the rich nutritional value. They contain many vitamins and minerals such as vitamin C, vitamin A, vitamin K, and Vitamin B3 (Niacin) as well as Potassium, Manganese, Magnesium, and also significant levels of dietary fiber. Now let’s take a closer look at the benefits of this vegetable.

Digestive Health

The significant amount of dietary fiber that is found in this vegetable is really good for digestive health. Fiber helps to speed up the transit of food through the digestive tract thus eliminating excess gas, constipation, cramping, and bloating as well as more difficult problems like colon cancer and gastric ulcers. Aside from that fiber also can regulate blood sugar levels by regulating the release of simple sugars (carbohydrates) into the bloodstream which is helpful for those suffering from diabetes.

Preventing Cancer

Withanolides which are unique antioxidant phytochemicals contained in Tomatillos are directly linked to anti-cancer and antibacterial functions. Antioxidants are those who are fighting against free radicals and their harmful effects on the human body. In addition, vitamin A, vitamin C, and flavonoids contained in tomatillos can provide other cancer-protective effects, especially when it comes to lung and oral cancers.

Immune System Health

Tomatillos include a considerable amount of vitamin C which will help to boost the immune system by promoting the manufacturing of white blood cells, which are the main defense line of the body against foreign agents and pathogens. Vitamin C is also a very important component when it comes to collagen production, which provides support for the health and generation of skin tissue, and even the cells and tissues that make up our organs and blood vessels, improving the body’s sustainability as well as metabolic functions.

Vision Health

The health of our vision has long been connected with Vitamin A. This veggie contains beta-carotene which is a derivative of vitamin A that works well as an antioxidant and prevents macular degeneration, cataracts, as well as other problems that may influence the health of our eyes.

Weight Loss Efforts

Tomatillos are an ideal vegetable for those who are trying to lose weight. They are very nutritious and on top of that are low-fat food with high fiber content. This can help you to feel full and with that reduce the chances of overeating. So this green vegetable is excellent in case you are planning to reduce obesity for a healthier way of life.

Energy Levels

A member of the B-family known as Niacin is often ignored in human health as well as the rest B-family vitamins. Niacin is a vital component in the enzymatic processes that break down food and also complex molecules into useful energy for the entire body. By enhancing the availability of this energy and making the process far better, the niacin present in tomatillos can provide you with a sustainable boost of energy for the duration of your day.

Heart Health and Blood Pressure

The ratio between potassium and sodium in tomatillos shows that your blood pressure levels can be reduced. Potassium can relax blood vessels and with that reduces the strain on the cardiovascular system, and enhances circulation and oxygenation to important parts of the body. Moreover, when mixed with an excellent fiber content, which may decrease (LDL) “bad” cholesterol levels, tomatillos can improve heart health by lowering the possibilities of atherosclerosis, heart attacks, and even strokes.