Lycopene, found in tomatoes and other carotenoids are more easily absorbed when cooked. The raw food movement might have you believe that all fruits and vegetables are better for you uncooked. But the truth is, some nutrients are actually better absorbed by the body when they’ve been heated.
Lycopene, found predominantly in tomatoes, is more abundant in cooked products, like stewed tomatoes, in spaghetti, or pizza sauce. Here’s a rule of thumb for getting the most nutrients out of your veggies: Water-soluble vitamins (B and C) lose nutrients when cooked, while fat-soluble (A, D, E and K, which require fat to be absorbed by the body) do not. Eating a variety of cooked and raw vegetables is your best bet for getting adequate amounts of both.
I agree, Rachel. While I did the raw vegan thing for a while and loved it, I eventually found its best to have balance! Plus, who doesn't want a nice cooked tomato-based stew or something when it is freeeeezing outside!? :)
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