Avocado and tomato are two of the most beloved superfoods in the world each with its own set of nutrients.
Recently, Kristie Leong, a physician as per her X bio, shared the benefits of eating avocado with tomato. “When you eat avocado with tomato, you absorb 7x more heart-healthy lycopene from the tomato,” she posted on X along with a video.
Lycopene, the antioxidant in tomatoes, is fat-soluble, meaning it needs fat to be absorbed efficiently. Avocado’s healthy fats help your body absorb more lycopene than when eating tomatoes alone.
Tomatoes contain vitamins A, D, E, and K, all of which require fat for absorption. Avocado provides the necessary fat, ensuring your body fully benefits from the nutrients in tomatoes.
Tomatoes have natural sugars, but when paired with avocado’s healthy fats and fiber, they create a balanced glycemic response. This helps prevent blood sugar spikes and promotes sustained energy levels.
Replying to one of the comments on her post, Dr Leong said, olive oil can also have the same effect. “Yes! That should have the same effect. The fats surround the lycopene and form a more stable structure that helps you absorb it better,” she replied to a comment.
Avocado and tomato can be combined to make a tasty and healthy mixture in various dishes. A traditional avocado and tomato salad is composed of diced avocados and tomatoes with olive oil, lemon juice, and fresh herbs. Avocado and tomato toast consists of creamy mashed avocado with fresh tomato slices on whole-grain bread. Guacamole with tomato adds diced tomatoes to mashed avocado, making it taste more flavorful and crunchy. An avocado and tomato omelet mixes scrambled eggs with fresh avocado and tomato for a very protein-packed breakfast. Lastly, avocado and tomato wraps combine the ingredients with some greens and light dressing, rolled up in a tortilla, for a whole, on-the-go meal.
Additional benefits
Lycopene in tomatoes has been linked to a lower risk of prostate, lung, and stomach cancer. Avocado enhances lycopene absorption, maximizing these protective effects.
Both avocados and tomatoes contain anti-inflammatory compounds that help reduce the risk of chronic diseases like arthritis, heart disease, and diabetes.
The fiber in avocados promotes a healthy gut microbiome, while tomatoes aid in digestion by providing hydration and fiber. Together, they support smooth digestion and prevent constipation.
Avocados provide healthy fats that keep you full longer, reducing cravings. Tomatoes are low in calories yet rich in nutrients, making them ideal for weight loss and maintenance.
