Cherry Tomatoes Calories: Nutritional Information and Health Benefits
Introduction
Cherry tomatoes are small, sweet, and packed with flavor and nutrients, making them a favorite in salads, snacks, and many dishes. Despite their tiny size, they deliver a big nutritional punch while being low in calories. In this article, we’ll explore the calorie content of cherry tomatoes, their nutritional value, health benefits, and how to incorporate them into your diet. Plus, we’ll answer common questions about cherry tomatoes and their calories.
How Many Calories Are in Cherry Tomatoes?
Cherry tomatoes are exceptionally low in calories, making them a great choice for weight management and healthy eating. Here’s a breakdown of their calorie content:
- One Cherry Tomato (Approx. 17 grams): 5 calories
- One Cup of Cherry Tomatoes (Approx. 150 grams): 25-30 calories
- 100 Grams of Cherry Tomatoes: 18-20 calories
Their low-calorie content, combined with their natural sweetness and high water content, makes cherry tomatoes an excellent choice for snacking or adding to meals.
Nutritional Profile of Cherry Tomatoes
Cherry tomatoes are not just low in calories but are also rich in essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Here’s what you get in 100 grams of cherry tomatoes:
- Calories: 18-20
- Carbohydrates: 3.9 grams
- Protein: 0.9 grams
- Fat: 0.2 grams
- Fiber: 1.2 grams
- Vitamin C: 21% of the Daily Value (DV)
- Vitamin A: 16% of the DV
- Potassium: 5% of the DV
- Lycopene: A powerful antioxidant linked to heart health and cancer prevention.
Health Benefits of Cherry Tomatoes
1. Low-Calorie and Weight-Friendly
- With only 5 calories per cherry tomato, they’re a guilt-free snack that can help control hunger and reduce overall calorie intake.
2. Rich in Antioxidants
- Lycopene, a key antioxidant in cherry tomatoes, supports heart health, reduces inflammation, and protects against certain cancers.
3. Boosts Immune System
- High levels of Vitamin C strengthen the immune system and promote skin health by boosting collagen production.
4. Improves Heart Health
- Potassium helps regulate blood pressure, while lycopene reduces bad cholesterol (LDL) and supports cardiovascular health.
5. Promotes Eye Health
- Vitamin A and beta-carotene contribute to good vision and protect against age-related eye conditions.
6. Supports Digestive Health
- Fiber aids digestion, promotes gut health, and helps prevent constipation.
7. Keeps You Hydrated
- With over 90% water content, cherry tomatoes help keep you hydrated, especially during hot weather.
How to Incorporate Cherry Tomatoes Into Your Diet
Cherry tomatoes are incredibly versatile and can be used in a variety of ways:
1. Raw as a Snack
- Eat them plain or with a sprinkle of salt and pepper for a healthy snack.
2. In Salads
- Add whole or halved cherry tomatoes to green salads, pasta salads, or grain bowls for a burst of flavor.
3. Roasted or Grilled
- Roast cherry tomatoes with olive oil, garlic, and herbs for a delicious side dish or topping for pasta and pizzas.
- Thread them onto skewers and grill them alongside vegetables or meats.
4. In Soups and Sauces
- Use roasted cherry tomatoes to create a rich, flavorful soup or pasta sauce.
5. As a Garnish
- Use them to decorate and add flavor to dishes like avocado toast, omelets, or charcuterie boards.
6. In Smoothies or Juices
- Blend cherry tomatoes into vegetable juices or smoothies for an extra nutrient boost.
Are Cherry Tomatoes Good for Weight Loss?
Yes, cherry tomatoes are an excellent choice for weight loss. Their low-calorie content, high water content, and natural sweetness make them a satisfying snack that curbs cravings. Additionally, their fiber content helps you feel full, reducing the temptation to overeat.
Cherry Tomatoes: Raw vs. Cooked Calories
Cooking cherry tomatoes slightly reduces their water content, making them slightly more calorie-dense per weight. However, the calorie difference is minimal, and cooking enhances the bioavailability of lycopene, making it easier for your body to absorb this beneficial antioxidant.
Top 10 Questions About Cherry Tomatoes Calories
1. How many calories are in one cherry tomato?
A single cherry tomato contains approximately 5 calories.
2. How many calories are in a cup of cherry tomatoes?
One cup of cherry tomatoes contains about 25-30 calories.
3. Are cherry tomatoes lower in calories than regular tomatoes?
Yes, cherry tomatoes are slightly lower in calories per gram due to their higher water content.
4. Do cooked cherry tomatoes have more calories than raw ones?
Cooking slightly increases calorie density due to water loss, but the difference is negligible.
5. How many calories are in 100 grams of cherry tomatoes?
100 grams of cherry tomatoes contain 18-20 calories.
6. Are cherry tomatoes good for weight loss?
Absolutely! Their low-calorie content, high water content, and fiber make them perfect for weight management.
7. How many calories are in a handful of cherry tomatoes?
A handful of cherry tomatoes (about 5-7 pieces) contains roughly 25-35 calories.
8. Are cherry tomatoes high in sugar?
Cherry tomatoes contain natural sugars, but the amount is low, making them a healthy snack option.
9. Do cherry tomatoes lose nutrients when cooked?
Some nutrients like vitamin C may decrease with cooking, but lycopene content becomes more bioavailable.
10. How many calories are in cherry tomato juice?
One cup (240 ml) of cherry tomato juice contains about 40-50 calories.
Conclusion
Cherry tomatoes are a low-calorie, nutrient-rich food that fits perfectly into a healthy diet. Whether eaten raw, roasted, or blended, they offer a delightful burst of flavor while delivering essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Their versatility, combined with their health benefits, makes cherry tomatoes an excellent addition to any meal plan. Enjoy their sweetness and nutritional goodness while keeping your calorie intake in check.