Tomatoes are like that old friend that everyone loves - lively, juicy and always ready to spice up any dish. Found in salads, sauces and pizzas, it is full of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. However, tomatoes also have their dark side. Who would have thought that it could hide quite a few health traps?
Although tomatoes seem innocent at first glance, they can be triggering for some people allergic reactions such as itching and swelling, or worsen the symptoms of acid reflux, causing unpleasant heartburn.
Moreover, in people with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) this red fruit can cause real digestive problems. And as if that wasn't enough, tomatoes contain substances that can contribute to formation of kidney stones, worsen autoimmune diseases and even trigger migraines.
Who would have thought that such a delicious and nutritious fruit could hide so many problems? That's why it's important to know when it's time to eliminate tomatoes from your diet.
Allergies and intolerance to tomatoes
Food allergies can be very uncomfortable and tomatoes are no exception. In some people, eating tomatoes can trigger allergic reactions that can manifest as itching, swelling of the lips, tongue or throat, difficulty breathing and, in severe cases, anaphylaxis. Such reactions can be very dangerous and require immediate medical attention. If you suspect that you are allergic to tomatoes, it is best to completely eliminate them from your diet.
Heartburn and reflux
Tomatoes are naturally acidic and their acidity can trigger or worsen heartburn and acid reflux symptoms. Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a condition where stomach acid backs up into the esophagus, causing a burning sensation in the chest. Tomatoes and tomato products such as sauces and juices can further irritate the lining of the esophagus and cause more problems for GERD sufferers.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
Irritable bowel syndrome is a chronic disease that affects the colon and causes symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating, gas and diarrhea. Tomatoes contain certain types of carbohydrates that can cause intestinal fermentation in some people with this disease. This process leads to increased gas formation and unpleasant symptoms. If you have IBS, it makes sense to try eliminating tomatoes from your diet and watch for any improvements.
Kidney stones
Kidney stones are hard, mineral deposits that form in the kidneys and can cause severe pain and other complications. It contains oxalates, substances that can bind with calcium and form stones. In people who are prone to kidney stones, eating tomatoes can increase the risk of their formation. If you have a history of kidney stones, talk to your doctor about whether you should eliminate tomatoes from your diet.
Autoimmune diseases
Autoimmune diseases such as lupus cause the immune system to attack the body's own tissues. Tomatoes belong to the cruciferous family, which contain solanine, a substance that can make inflammation worse in some people. If you have an autoimmune disease, eliminating tomatoes from nutrition helps reduce symptoms and improve general well-being.
Migraines
Migraines are bad headaches, which are often accompanied by nausea, vomiting and sensitivity to light and sound. Some people find that tomatoes trigger migraines. This may be due to tyramine, an amine present in it that is a known migraine trigger in susceptible individuals. If you suffer from frequent migraine headaches, try eliminating it from your diet and see if the frequency and intensity of the headaches decrease.
