Tomato juice: The heart-healthy elixir you can make at home
The secret to health, which strengthens your heart and bones and hydrates the body better than many isotonic drinks, is hidden in juicy, red tomatoes. Scientists confirm: this ruby drink is a true vitamin and mineral powerhouse, and regular consumption can work wonders for your well-being.
You don't have to reach for exotic superfoods to care for your heart, bones, and immune system. Simply opt for tomatoes and prepare homemade juice, which, according to experts, can compete with the most expensive supplements. Tomato juice is a real treasure trove of health — and the best part is that you can prepare it in your kitchen, without preservatives and artificial additives. Here is a tomato juice recipe worth knowing and incorporating into your daily diet.
Tomato juice recipe — natural support for heart and bones
Tomato juice is one of the simplest yet healthiest drinks that we can prepare at home. It has a particularly beneficial effect on the cardiovascular system — it lowers blood pressure, supports heart function, and helps protect the body from strokes. This is due to its high potassium content, which helps regulate blood pressure, and the presence of antioxidants, most notably lycopene.
Lycopene is a compound belonging to the carotenoid group responsible for tomatoes' intense red colour. Studies indicate that lycopene acts as a protective shield for cells—it neutralises free radicals, reduces cancer risk, and delays ageing processes. It is particularly effective in protecting against prostate, pancreatic, and stomach cancers, as well as skin damage caused by UV radiation.
Interestingly, cooking tomatoes does not reduce the lycopene content — quite the opposite! In tomato products, such as homemade juice, its bioavailability is greater than in raw vegetables. Therefore, drinking such a beverage regularly can bring more benefits than eating fresh tomatoes.
Tomato juice recipe — how to prepare health in a glass?
Making tomato juice at home is extremely simple and requires no specialised equipment. You only need fresh tomatoes, a bit of seasoning, and possibly a fat addition to help the body better absorb lycopene. Here is a simple tomato juice recipe step-by-step:
- Take three ripe, medium-sized tomatoes (preferably Malinowy or beefsteak variety).
- Wash them thoroughly, remove the stems and hard parts, then cut them into quarters.
- Cook the tomatoes on low heat for about 15–20 minutes until they soften and release their juice.
- Blend them into a smooth mass after cooking.
- Season the finished juice with a pinch of salt, freshly ground pepper, and — if you wish — a bit of hot pepper or herbs like oregano or basil.
- For better lycopene absorption, add a teaspoon of olive oil.
This drink is full of nutrients and contains no unnecessary additives. Additionally, you can enrich it with a clove of garlic — a natural antibiotic that supports immunity and has anti-inflammatory properties.
Who should particularly drink homemade tomato juice?
Homemade tomato juice is recommended for almost everyone, but it brings particular benefits to people with circulatory problems, high blood pressure, diabetes, or osteoporosis. The potassium it contains lowers blood pressure, and the low glycaemic index ensures the drink does not cause sudden sugar spikes — good news for those with insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes.
Lycopene, vitamin K, and calcium help maintain healthy and strong bones, making tomato juice a valuable dietary addition for women during menopause and older adults. Furthermore, this drink is excellent for hydration, making it perfect for summer and after intense physical exertion.
