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How many calories are in 1 large vine tomato?

4 min read

According to nutritional data, a vine tomato contains approximately 20.10 calories per 100g, making the answer to how many calories are in 1 large vine tomato contingent on its weight. A typical large vine tomato, weighing around 150g, will contain roughly 30 calories, but this can vary slightly. These vibrant fruits are not only low in calories but also packed with essential vitamins and antioxidants.

Quick Summary

This article details the low-calorie count of a large vine tomato based on its average weight and provides a comprehensive nutritional breakdown. It compares vine tomatoes with other varieties and explores the significant health benefits of incorporating them into your diet.

Key Points

  • Low Calorie: A large vine tomato, weighing approximately 150g, contains roughly 30 calories.

  • Antioxidant Rich: These tomatoes are a great source of the antioxidant lycopene, which supports heart health and may reduce cancer risk.

  • High in Vitamins: They provide excellent amounts of Vitamin C and Vitamin A, boosting the immune system and promoting healthy vision.

  • Good for Digestion: With a decent amount of fiber, vine tomatoes aid in digestion and regularity.

  • Highly Versatile: You can enjoy vine tomatoes in countless ways, from fresh in salads to roasted in sauces.

  • Excellent Hydration: With a water content of around 95%, they are a great way to stay hydrated.

In This Article

The Calorie Count Explained

The calorie content of a large vine tomato is relatively low, making it an excellent addition to a health-conscious diet. While the exact number varies by size and ripeness, a standard estimation is based on its weight. Vine tomatoes generally contain about 20 calories per 100 grams. Therefore, for a typically large vine tomato weighing around 150 grams, you can expect approximately 30 calories. The beauty of the vine tomato is that its calorie-to-nutrient ratio is exceptional; you get a host of vitamins and minerals for a minimal caloric cost, helping you feel full and satisfied.

Nutritional Breakdown of a Large Vine Tomato

Beyond just the calories, a large vine tomato provides a rich profile of vital nutrients. These benefits are often at their peak when the tomatoes are ripened fully on the vine. A detailed look at the macronutrients and micronutrients reveals why this fruit is a nutritional powerhouse.

Macronutrients

  • Carbohydrates: For a 100g serving, vine tomatoes contain about 3.03g of carbohydrates, primarily simple sugars like fructose and glucose, which provide natural energy.
  • Fiber: The dietary fiber content is around 1.50g per 100g, which aids in digestion and helps regulate bowel movements.
  • Protein: With only about 0.50g of protein per 100g, vine tomatoes are not a significant protein source.
  • Fat: They are virtually fat-free, containing less than 0.5g per 100g.

Micronutrients

  • Vitamins: Vine tomatoes are a great source of Vitamin C and Vitamin A, both powerful antioxidants. Vitamin C helps boost the immune system, while Vitamin A is crucial for good vision and skin health. They also provide vitamin B9 (folate) and vitamin K.
  • Minerals: A 100g serving delivers a significant amount of potassium, which is essential for blood pressure control. They also contain small amounts of magnesium, manganese, and iron.

Large Vine Tomato vs. Other Tomato Varieties

Different types of tomatoes offer varying calorie and nutrient levels, mainly due to their size and water content. Here is a comparison to illustrate how a large vine tomato fits in.

Tomato Type Approximate Serving Size Approximate Calories Key Difference
Large Vine Tomato 150g 30 kcal Often considered a good all-purpose tomato for salads and sauces.
Medium Tomato 123g 22 kcal A common comparison size, slightly lower in calories due to size.
100g Raw Tomato 100g 18 kcal A standard nutritional benchmark, representing pure fruit.
Cherry Tomatoes 1 cup (approx. 150g) ~27 kcal Small, sweet, and ideal for snacking or adding to salads.
Roma Tomato 1 medium (approx. 60g) ~11 kcal Denser and less watery, preferred for sauces and pastes.
Tomato Paste 100g ~82 kcal Concentrated and much higher in calories and sugar due to processing.

Health Benefits Beyond Calories

The nutritional value of vine tomatoes extends far beyond their low-calorie profile. Their vibrant red color is a result of a high concentration of lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that offers numerous health advantages. Lycopene is most bioavailable when the tomatoes are cooked with a little fat, such as olive oil.

  • Cancer Prevention: Lycopene has been extensively studied for its potential in reducing the risk of certain cancers, particularly prostate cancer.
  • Heart Health: A diet rich in tomatoes may contribute to improved heart health by reducing markers of inflammation and oxidative stress.
  • Skin Health: The antioxidant properties of lycopene, along with Vitamins C and A, can protect your skin from sun damage and promote a healthy complexion.
  • Hydration: With a water content of around 95%, vine tomatoes are excellent for staying hydrated, especially during warmer months.

How to Incorporate Vine Tomatoes into Your Diet

Vine tomatoes are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. Here are some simple and delicious ideas:

  • Roasted Vine Tomatoes: Toss whole tomatoes with olive oil, garlic, and herbs, then roast until soft and bursting.
  • Fresh Salads: Slice and add to a Caprese salad with fresh mozzarella and basil or mix into a vibrant fattoush salad.
  • Quick Pasta Sauce: Roast the tomatoes and then blend them with garlic and seasonings for a fast, flavorful, and healthy sauce.
  • Bruschetta: Dice the tomatoes and mix with basil, garlic, and olive oil to top toasted bread.
  • Soups and Stews: Add whole or chopped vine tomatoes to enhance the flavor of soups, stews, and chili.

Conclusion

In summary, a large vine tomato is a low-calorie, nutrient-dense food that provides significant health benefits, especially for weight management and overall wellness. Its low-calorie count, coupled with its rich content of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants like lycopene, makes it a valuable addition to any diet. Whether you enjoy them fresh in a salad or cooked in a sauce, incorporating vine tomatoes into your meals is an easy and delicious way to boost your nutritional intake. For more in-depth information on the health benefits of tomatoes, you can consult research available through the National Institutes of Health.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, vine tomatoes are excellent for weight loss. They are low in calories and fat, but high in water and fiber, which helps promote a feeling of fullness without adding significant calories.

Cooking vine tomatoes actually increases the bioavailability of lycopene, a key antioxidant. While it may reduce some heat-sensitive vitamins, the increased absorption of lycopene is a significant benefit.

While the exact amount varies, a medium (123g) tomato on the vine contains approximately 3,160 mcg of lycopene, which is a potent antioxidant. A larger tomato would contain a proportionally higher amount.

Some studies suggest that tomatoes ripened on the vine, as opposed to those picked green, may contain higher levels of antioxidants and other nutrients due to a more complete ripening process.

No, you should not eat the leaves or stem of a tomato plant. These parts contain toxic alkaloids and are not safe for consumption.

For every 100 grams, a vine tomato contains about 3.03 grams of carbohydrates. For a large tomato (approx. 150g), the carb count would be around 4.5 grams.

Store vine tomatoes at room temperature for 3-4 days for optimal flavor and to retain their freshness. Avoid refrigerating them, as the cold can cause them to lose flavor and texture.

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Medical Disclaimer

This content is for informational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice.