Why You Should Always Cook Carrots and Tomatoes in Oil for Better Health

Carrots and tomatoes pack a powerful nutritional punch when paired with oil.

Why should you cook these veggies in oil? It’s all about maximizing nutrient absorption. Choose olive oil or perilla oil for best results.

The secret lies in how well the nutrients in carrots and tomatoes interact with fats.

Carrots are a true superfood, offering a range of health perks. They’re great for your vision, help slow down aging, boost lung function, fight cancer, enhance your immune system, and even help keep your blood pressure in check. Just 100 grams (3.5 ounces) of cooked carrots are loaded with beta-carotene, which your body turns into vitamin A. This antioxidant powerhouse helps maintain eye health, delay signs of aging, support your lungs, and potentially ward off cancer.

The vitamin A in carrots is fat-soluble, which means it needs a little fat to be absorbed appropriately. While munching on raw carrots is excellent, you can level up their benefits by cooking them with the skin on and adding oil. A quick sauté or light oil cooking can boost their nutritional impact.

Here’s a pro tip: blanch and drizzle your tomatoes with oil to supercharge their lycopene content. This simple trick increases their antioxidant properties. Want a delicious and healthy breakfast? Try adding olive oil and tomatoes to your scrambled eggs.

Lycopene, the star player in tomatoes, is primarily known for its potential to lower the risk of prostate cancer. This vibrant red pigment, also found in watermelon, is a potent antioxidant with remarkable health benefits.

But remember, moderation is key in everything – even healthy foods! The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reminds us that while water-soluble vitamins get flushed out if overconsumed, fat-soluble vitamins are stored in our liver and fatty tissues. Excess amounts can be harmful, so don’t go overboard!