Tomatoes are a popular and nutritious fruit that is commonly considered and used as a vegetable. Tomatoes can be added to the diet in many different ways. Raw tomatoes can be chopped, sliced, juiced or processed. Processed tomato products can be added to spaghetti sauce, stews or chili. Tomato juice is a healthy beverage.

Tomatoes contain large amounts of lycopene, vitamin C and vitamin A, potassium, and iron. The red pigment contained in tomatoes is called lycopene. This compound appears to act as an antioxidant, neutralizing free radicals that can damage cells in the body. Raw tomato juice contains potassium, an essential mineral macronutrient in human nutrition. Low potassium in the body fluids leads to general weakness and malaise. Tomato juice is rich in Vitamins C and A, which are known for their immune enhancing properties.