Many Americans are looking to trim the fat from their diet, but when they do, they may trim ALL the fat instead. This can cause you to miss out on absorption of some essential nutrients.
Research conducted by Iowa State University determined that when you eat vegetables such as tomatoes you absorb more of the antioxidants lycopene and beta-carotene when a little good fat is included.
In this study, participants ate a tomato salad with different types of dressings ranging from fat-free variations to Italian blends. After blood samples were analyzed, researchers indicated that those participants who consumed salads with fat-free or low-fat dressings didnt absorb very much of the antioxidants in the tomatoes. Those who ate the more fat-laden dressings had higher levels of lycopene and beta-carotene.
These two nutrients are carotenoids, or the pigments that give fruits and vegetables their red, yellow or orange color. Carotenoids can also be found in dark leafy greens like spinach, and help convert vitamin A for use in your body. As antioxidants, lycopene and beta-carotene help destroy free radicals that can cause damage to your cells and organs.
Besides tomatoes, lycopene and beta-carotene can be found in grapefruit, carrots, watermelon, various peppers, lettuces, kale and mustard greens. Why not drizzle a little olive oil on your foods to help boost your absorption of the nutrients contained in these healthy fruits and vegetables?