You all know I am all about increasing my intake of flavonoids. Since it is better to eat your antioxidants than to take supplements, I heartily suggest we all eat more organic tomatoes.

A new study published recently in the "Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry" found that organic tomatoes produce almost double the amount of flavonoids compared with conventionally grown tomatoes. Flavonoids are a type of antioxidant known to be beneficial for reducing high blood pressure, lowering the risk of heart disease and stroke.

There are a couple of theories as to why this is so. Most scientists think it has to do with the soil in which the tomatoes are grown. Organic tomatoes are grown without conventional nitrogen fertilizers and flavonoids are produced by the tomatoes as a defense mechanism triggered by nutrient deficiency, such as a lack of nitrogen in the soil.

So go for it. Spend a little extra dough and buy some organic tomatoes while they are in season. I have always found organic tomatoes to be tastier.

What is your favorite way to eat fresh tomatoes? Tell me in the comments section below.

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