Tomatoes offer surprising health benefits: Rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and fiber, tomatoes can enhance eye health, balance blood sugar levels, and protect the heart.

Nine common mistakes when consuming tomatoes identified: Missteps such as refrigerating tomatoes, discarding the skin, and consuming green tomatoes can compromise their nutritional value and pose health risks.

Storing tomatoes at room temperature recommended: Refrigeration can negatively affect the flavor and texture of tomatoes; they should be kept at room temperature unless fully ripe.

Health risks associated with green tomatoes: Green tomatoes contain solanine, which can lead to gastrointestinal issues and headaches; only fully ripe tomatoes should be consumed.

Cooking tomatoes properly maximizes nutrients: Overcooking can destroy essential vitamins like vitamin C, while moderate cooking enhances the bioavailability of lycopene, a powerful antioxidant.

Potential food𝐛𝐨𝐫𝐧e illness risks from raw tomatoes: Raw tomatoes can carry germs that may lead to food𝐛𝐨𝐫𝐧e illnesses, particularly for vulnerable populations such as the elderly, young 𝘤𝘩𝘪𝘭𝘥ren, and those with weakened immune systems.