Welcome to the Healthy Bytes Initiative
Sponsored by The Food and Nutrition Group
June’s Healthy Food of the Month is Tomatillos!
Health Benefits of Tomatillos
The tomatillo, or husk tomato, is a food staple of Mexican and Guatemalan cultures. It was cultivated in ancient Central America in 800 BCE and named tomatl by the Aztecs. Currently, Mexico and California are the largest growers of tomatillos.
Tomatillos provide antioxidants vitamin C and beta-carotene to boost immunity and reduce risk of cancer. Lutein and zeaxanthin help to maintain eye health. Tomatillos contain B vitamins Folate and B6 for metabolism, and vitamin K for healthy blood clotting.
Anti-tumor compounds called withanolides are known to be toxic to cancer cells. Withanolides have also been used in the treatment of inflammation, diabetes and Alzheimer’s.
Minerals in tomatillos include potassium, magnesium, phosphorus and calcium for healthy blood pressure and bones.
Although there are yellow and purple varieties, in the US, the green tomatillo is the most widely available.
Thank you to the Food and Nutrition Group and these sponsors:
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