Tomato juice is the most popular beverage in the vegetable juice category, comparable to orange juice in the world of fruits. While botanists classify tomatoes as berries, even within this category, tomatoes would rank among the most favored. Tomato juice is available as both food and medicine. It is beneficial for everyone and serves as a preventive measure against illnesses. The nutritional balance found in these juices is valuable, especially for athletes. For those who neglect their health, tomato juice is simply essential.
Who ”Invented” Tomato Juice?
The story tells that tomato juice was first served in 1917 at the French Lick Springs Hotel restaurant in French Lick, Indiana, USA. This beverage was the result of an ingenious improvisation by chef Louis Perrin.
One summer morning in 1917, the hotel kitchen ran out of oranges, typically used to prepare breakfast juice for guests. So, the chef served tomato juice, adding sugar and a secret sauce. Thus, a new breakfast drink was born, garnering immense success.
News about tomato juice spread rapidly, attracting people to the restaurant to try it. Before long, the hotel kitchen struggled to meet the growing demand. By the 1920s, the United States saw the advent of mass production of tomato juice. Today, this juice remains one of the most popular beverages in many countries.
How Is Tomato and Its Juice Beneficial?
Tomato juice contains a complex array of nutrients essential for healthy bodily function. Tomatoes are low in calories but high in fiber, making them nutritious. Just 100 ml of natural tomato juice contains only 17 kcal and 2 g of sugar.
Tomato juice is a concentrated source of antioxidants like lycopene, vitamin C, and beta-carotene. This makes it an effective preventive measure against various diseases. Scientists claim and support the benefits of tomato juice.
- Boosting Immunity. The antioxidant complex in tomatoes neutralizes the harmful effects of free radicals on the body. This contributes to a vigorous immune system and helps maintain it over time.
- Preventing Cardiovascular Diseases. More than ten studies have confirmed the benefits of consuming tomatoes and their products in preventing heart and vascular diseases. Regular consumption helps manage risk factors such as high blood pressure, elevated cholesterol levels, and arterial calcification.
- Cancer Prevention. Lycopene, a powerful antioxidant abundant in tomatoes, may reduce the risk of lung, stomach, or prostate cancer. Some studies suggest it may also play a role in preventing pancreatic, colorectal, throat, oral, breast, and cervical cancers.
- Eye health. Tomatoes provide lutein and zeaxanthin, substances that prevent the eyes from being affected by blue light from electronic devices. Some studies suggest these compounds may reduce the risk of macular degeneration.
Tomato Juice for Dieting
As mentioned earlier, tomato drink is low in calories, making it an excellent choice when following a diet. It serves as a favorable alternative to higher-calorie fruit juices.
Tomatoes are rich in fiber, particularly insoluble fiber. This type of fiber is not digestible, helping to maintain a feeling of fullness for longer. Tomato pulp contains fiber, but the peel has even more, so consider leaving the skins in your tomato juice.
Studies also confirmed the effect of tomato juice on weight loss. Consuming 280 ml of natural tomato juice daily for two months has been shown to reduce body fat, waist circumference, and overall weight.
Tomato Juice Benefits for Athletes
Tomato juice can be the perfect drink to recover after an intense workout. It is considered a sufficient source of electrolytes. Experts and nutritionists recommend adding a pinch of salt to tomato juice for athletes. The potassium in tomatoes, combined with sodium from the salt, provides essential electrolytes for muscle recovery.
After intense physical activity, low-calorie electrolyte-rich tomato beverages can help:
- Restore energy
- Rebalance nutrients in the body
- Support muscle recovery
Tomato Juice for Those with Harmful Habits
Some studies suggest that lycopene, lutein, and zeaxanthin found in tomatoes help combat harmful substances in tobacco smoke. Vitamin C, one of the most essential antioxidants, also assists the body in dealing with various toxins.
This juice also has so many electrolytes, particularly potassium. When the body is drained after partying, tomato juice can be a lifesaver. Lycopene in tomatoes helps stimulate liver function, aiding the body in detoxifying and improving overall well-being.
However, don’t be misled—tomato juice is not a magical cure to erase the effects of harmful habits. You should promote a healthy lifestyle, which is the most crucial factor!
Freshly Pressed Tomato Juices
Tomatoes have 95% water, making them an excellent source of juice. With only tomatoes and a juicing device, you can prepare freshly pressed tomato juice in just a few minutes.
Using a juicer. Begin by thoroughly washing the tomatoes, then load them into the juicer to extract the juice. If your juicer separates the pulp, there’s no need for additional steps—pour the juice into a glass and serve.
With a blender. If a juicer is unavailable, a blender can be used instead. Juice prepared this way will be thicker, including tomato skins and seeds. From a nutritional perspective, this is even better since it retains valuable fibers. If you prefer smoother juice, strain it through a sieve before serving.
You can enjoy freshly pressed tomato juice as is, without any additional seasonings. However, adding spices and herbs can elevate the flavor. The classic ingredients are salt and freshly ground black pepper, but you can experiment with other options, such as:
- Thyme
- Basil
- Cumin
- Belly pepper powder
- Oregano
- Rosemary
Preserved Tomato Beverages for Winter
As summer ends, you’re wondering what to do with all those tomatoes. So, one of the best solutions is to preserve tomatoes for the winter. Canned tomato juice is just as beneficial to health as fresh juice. Moreover, organisms even more easily absorb lycopene (one of the most important antioxidants found in tomatoes) from processed tomatoes than raw ones.
The base for canned tomato juice is natural tomato juice. Extract the juice from the tomatoes, strain it, and transfer it to a pot. Heat the juice gently over low heat until it begins to boil. Remove any foam that rises to the surface, stirring occasionally, and let it simmer for approximately 5 minutes.
Pour the hot juice into clean, sterilized jars and seal them tightly. Place the jars upside down, cover them with a towel, and let them cool completely. Store the prepared tomato juice in a dark, cool place, preferably in a cellar.
Customizing Canned Tomato Juice
You may preserve natural tomato juice with various added ingredients to create different flavors. It can be spicy, tangy, sweet-and-sour, or anything else you prefer. Add your chosen seasonings to the juice while heating. Some popular options include:
- Sugar, salt, and black pepper
- Vinegar
- Cloves
- Cinnamon
- Garlic
- Chili peppers
- Paprika, onions, or celery
Virgin Mary Cocktail
Tomato has appetite-stimulating properties, making it an excellent ingredient for aperitifs. One of the most popular tomato cocktails is the Bloody Mary. However, the Virgin Mary is a healthier alternative that rivals its predecessor in taste and nutritional benefits. There are countless recipes and variations of this cocktail—here’s one you can try.
Ingredients:
- 2.5 cups of natural tomato juice
- 4 tablespoons of green olive brine
- 1 clove of garlic
- 1–2 teaspoons of hot sauce (e.g., Worcestershire sauce)
- ½ medium-sized cucumber (peeled and chopped)
- 1 chopped celery stalk
- Juice of ½ a lemon
- 1 teaspoon of horseradish (optional, if you like it)
For serving and garnishing:
- Ice cubes
- Green olives
- Celery stalk
Preparation:
- Add all the cocktail ingredients into a blender and blend until smooth.
- Place ice cubes in a glass and pour the cocktail over them.
- Garnish with green olives skewered on a toothpick and/or a celery stalk.
- Serve and enjoy!
Are Tomato Beverages Suitable for Everyone?
Tomato beverages are generally considered a safe food and ingredient for consumption and are suitable even for pregnant or breastfeeding women. However, moderation is crucial to avoiding overindulgence.
There are some cases where consuming tomato juice requires consulting a doctor:
- Fungal or yeast infections (e.g., Candida). Tomato juice may encourage the growth of such bacteria.
- Increased stomach acidity. Tomato and its juice might exacerbate this condition.
- Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). Consuming tomato beverages on an empty stomach can worsen symptoms.
- Tomato allergies. Symptoms such as nausea, liver dysfunction, skin rashes, itching, runny nose, or breathing difficulties may occur in those allergic to tomatoes.
Sources
- https://academic-accelerator.com/encyclopedia/tomato-juice
- https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/tomato-juice
- https://www.webmd.com/food-recipes/ss/slideshow-tomato-health-benefits
- https://www.medicinenet.com/is_drinking_tomato_juice_good_for_you/article.htm
- https://plantbasedonabudget.com/virgin-bloody-mary/
Associative photos © Canva