How Many Calories Are in 12 Tomatoes? A Complete Guide

According to USDA data, a single medium-sized tomato contains only about 22 calories. This means the total count for how many calories are in 12 tomatoes depends heavily on the specific size and type, with varieties ranging from cherry to large beefsteak.

Quick Summary

The calories in 12 tomatoes vary widely based on variety, ranging from just 37 for 12 cherry tomatoes to nearly 400 for 12 large whole ones. This article details the different calorie counts, explores nutritional benefits, and provides simple tips for incorporating tomatoes into your meals.

Key Points

• Variety is Key: Calorie count for 12 tomatoes depends on type (cherry vs. large beefsteak).

• Medium Tomato Benchmark: 12 medium tomatoes contain roughly 264 calories.

• Lycopene Power: Tomatoes are rich in the antioxidant lycopene, linked to reduced heart disease and certain cancer risks.

• Cooking Increases Absorption: Cooking with healthy fat can improve lycopene absorption.

• Choose Fresh Over Processed: Processed products like ketchup often have more calories and less health benefits than fresh.

• Nutrient-Dense and Hydrating: High water and fiber content aids in feeling full and hydration.

Calorie Breakdown: How Many Calories Are in 12 Tomatoes?

Knowing how many calories are in 12 tomatoes requires considering the size and type of tomato, as the calorie count can vary significantly.

Comparing Calories by Tomato Type

• 12 Cherry Tomatoes: Approximately 37 calories.
• 12 Medium Tomatoes: Around 264 calories (12 x 22 calories per medium tomato).
• 12 Plum Tomatoes: Roughly 134 calories.
• 12 Large Whole Tomatoes: Approximately 393 calories.

The Calculation of Tomato Calories

Tomato calories come mainly from carbohydrates and protein, with minimal fat. You can estimate calories by weight; 100 grams of raw tomato contains about 18 to 20 calories.

Beyond Calories: The Nutritional Power of Tomatoes

Tomatoes are not only low in calories but also rich in nutrients.

Health Benefits of Lycopene and Other Nutrients

• Rich in Lycopene: The red pigment is lycopene, a potent antioxidant linked to reduced risks of heart disease and certain cancers, particularly prostate cancer. Cooking tomatoes with a little healthy fat can boost lycopene absorption.
• Excellent Source of Vitamins: Tomatoes provide Vitamin C for immune and skin health, Vitamin K1 for blood clotting and bones, and Folate (B9) for cell function.
• High in Potassium: This mineral helps manage blood pressure and supports heart health.
• Hydration and Fiber: With about 95% water and good fiber content, tomatoes help with hydration and feeling full, which can aid weight management.

Versatile Ways to Add Tomatoes to Your Diet

Tomatoes are easy to include in meals:

• Snacking: Cherry tomatoes are great on their own.
• Salads: Add sliced or diced tomatoes.
• Sauces: Make homemade tomato sauces.
• Salsas and Dips: Create fresh salsa.
• Roasted: Roasting enhances sweetness.
• Soups and Stews: Tomatoes are a flavorful base.

Tomato Calorie Comparison: Fresh vs. Processed

Processing changes calories and nutrients.

Product	Approx. Calorie Content (per 100g)	Notes
Raw Tomato	18-20 kcal	Low-calorie, high in water and vitamins.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes	200-250 kcal	Concentrated sugars; often packed in oil.
Tomato Paste	80-100 kcal	Concentrated nutrients.
Tomato Ketchup	100-115 kcal	Added sugars and salt.

Fresh or minimally processed options are best for lower calories and more nutrients. Check labels for added sugars and sodium.

Conclusion

The calories in 12 tomatoes vary by size and type, ranging from about 37 for cherry to 393 for large. Fresh tomatoes are a low-calorie, nutrient-rich food packed with beneficial antioxidants like lycopene. Understanding these differences helps in incorporating tomatoes into a healthy diet. For more detailed nutritional data, refer to the USDA FoodData Central.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many calories are in 12 cherry tomatoes?

Twelve cherry tomatoes have about 37 calories.

What is the calorie count for 12 medium tomatoes?

Twelve medium tomatoes contain approximately 264 calories.

Does cooking affect the calorie count of tomatoes?

Cooking doesn't change the basic calorie count but can increase lycopene absorption. Added ingredients will increase calories.

Are tomatoes a good food for weight loss?

Yes, fresh tomatoes are low in calories, high in water and fiber, promoting fullness.

What is the main nutritional benefit of tomatoes besides being low in calories?

Tomatoes are high in lycopene, an antioxidant protecting against chronic diseases.

How do canned tomatoes compare in calories to fresh ones?

Canned tomatoes can be similar to fresh if no ingredients are added, but check labels for sugar and sodium.

Do sun-dried tomatoes have more calories?

Yes, sun-dried tomatoes are higher in calories due to concentrated sugars from drying.