Calories in 58g of Tomatoes
A 58-gram portion of a typical raw, ripe tomato contains approximately 10 calories. This calculation is based on the average calorie content of around 18 calories per 100 grams for raw tomatoes. A 58-gram serving is a small to medium-sized tomato, depending on the variety, making it a nearly negligible contributor to your daily caloric intake. The minimal calorie count is primarily due to the tomato's high water content, which makes up about 95% of its weight.
Nutritional Breakdown for 58g Tomatoes
Beyond just calories, a 58-gram serving of raw tomatoes offers a spectrum of beneficial nutrients. The macronutrient composition is mostly carbohydrates and a small amount of protein, with virtually no fat.
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 2g, primarily from simple sugars like glucose and fructose.
- Protein: Around 1g.
- Fats: Trace amounts, typically less than 0.1g.
- Fiber: About 1g, which contributes to digestive health.
Comparing Caloric Content Across Tomato Varieties
Not all tomatoes are created equal. While the differences in calories are minor, the nutritional profiles can vary slightly depending on the tomato type and preparation method.
| Tomato Variety (58g serving) | Approx. Calories | Macronutrient Breakdown (Carbs/Protein/Fat) | Notable Nutrient Differences |
|---|---|---|---|
| Roma Tomato | 10 kcal | 2g Carbs, 1g Protein, 0.1g Fat | Contains beneficial lycopene and vitamin C |
| Grape/Cherry Tomato | 10-12 kcal | 2g Carbs, 1g Protein, 0g Fat | Often higher in vitamin C per gram |
| Standard Red Tomato (Raw) | ~10 kcal | 2g Carbs, 1g Protein, 0.1g Fat | Excellent source of vitamins A, C, and K |
As the table shows, the caloric differences for a 58-gram serving are very small across different fresh, raw varieties. The slightly higher count in some grape or cherry tomatoes may be due to a higher sugar concentration relative to their smaller size and water content.
The Health Benefits of Tomatoes
Incorporating tomatoes into your diet offers benefits beyond their low caloric value. They are an excellent source of antioxidants and other compounds that support overall health.
- Rich in Lycopene: This powerful antioxidant is responsible for the red color and is linked to numerous health benefits, including a reduced risk of heart disease and certain cancers.
- Vitamins and Minerals: Tomatoes are packed with essential nutrients like Vitamin C, Vitamin K1, potassium, and folate. Vitamin C is crucial for immune function, while potassium helps with blood pressure regulation.
- Hydration: With about 95% water content, tomatoes help you stay hydrated and can contribute to feelings of fullness, aiding in weight management.
How to Incorporate 58g of Tomatoes into Your Meals
A 58-gram serving is a flexible amount that can be used in many different culinary applications. For perspective, this is roughly one medium-sized plum tomato or a generous handful of cherry tomatoes.
- Snack: Enjoy cherry tomatoes on their own as a quick, healthy snack.
- Salad: Dice or slice a medium tomato to add flavor and texture to a mixed green salad.
- Sandwich: Add a few slices to a turkey or vegetable sandwich for extra moisture and nutrients.
- Sauce: Use a handful of grape tomatoes as a base for a light, fresh pasta sauce.
- Salsa: Chop up a small tomato with onion, cilantro, and jalapeño for a fresh, homemade salsa.
Conclusion
For those wondering how many calories are in 58 g of tomatoes, the answer is a low 10 to 12 calories, depending on the variety. This makes raw tomatoes an exceptionally healthy and low-impact food choice for managing weight or simply boosting your nutrient intake. Their high water content, fiber, and potent antioxidants like lycopene provide significant health advantages beyond their minimal caloric contribution. Whether eaten raw, cooked, or incorporated into a variety of dishes, adding a serving of tomatoes is a simple way to enhance your diet with vital nutrients. To optimize the absorption of fat-soluble nutrients like lycopene, consider pairing tomatoes with a small amount of healthy fat, such as olive oil.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 58 g of tomatoes a typical serving size?
While not a standardized serving size, 58 grams is equivalent to about one small to medium tomato or a handful of cherry tomatoes, making it a very reasonable and common amount to consume in a meal or snack.
How many calories are in a 100-gram serving of raw tomatoes?
A 100-gram serving of raw tomatoes contains approximately 18 calories, confirming that tomatoes are an extremely low-calorie food.
Do cooked tomatoes have more calories than raw tomatoes?
Cooking tomatoes does not significantly increase their calorie count unless fats or oils are added during preparation. In fact, cooking can increase the bioavailability of certain antioxidants like lycopene.
What nutrients does a 58g serving of tomatoes provide?
A 58g serving offers a good source of Vitamin C, Vitamin A, Vitamin K, potassium, and the antioxidant lycopene, while being very low in fat and sodium.
Are tomatoes good for weight loss?
Yes, tomatoes are excellent for weight loss due to their low calorie density and high water and fiber content, which helps promote a feeling of fullness without adding many calories.
Can tomatoes be part of a keto diet?
Yes, tomatoes can be included in a keto diet. They are low in net carbs and can be used in moderation to add flavor and nutrients to meals.
Does adding olive oil to tomatoes increase nutrient absorption?
Yes, adding a source of healthy fat like olive oil to tomatoes can increase the absorption of fat-soluble carotenoids, including lycopene.
