Benefits for the Skin
Lycopene not only works inside the body but can also help protect your skin from sun damage. While it’s not a substitute for using sunscreen, a diet rich in tomatoes could provide extra defense against UV rays. Additionally, its vitamin C helps stimulate collagen production, which keeps your skin more elastic and firm.
Interestingly, lycopene is best absorbed when the tomato is cooked and accompanied by a little healthy fat, such as olive oil. This means that homemade tomato sauce can be even more beneficial than eating it raw, as long as you don’t overdo it with salt or added sugar. However, fresh tomatoes are still an excellent choice for taking advantage of their vitamins and freshness.
