The lovely tomato

August and September are prime time for garden fresh tomatoes, which have a much richer flavor than supermarket versions. Not only are tomatoes sweet and juicy, they also contribute to your RDA of vitamins A and C, fiber, potassium, as well as important antioxidants and flavanoids. If that wasn't reason enough to make yourself a juicy tomato sandwich or homemade tomato sauce, consider these five reasons to enjoy a tomato:

1. Tomatoes may help you lower your blood pressure.
2. They may boost your immunity against cold and flu.
3. Lycopene -- which is found in tomatoes -- may reduce your risk of sunburn.
4. Tomatoes can lower raise good cholesterol and lower bad.
5. When tomatoes are cooked or eaten with oil, they can prevent signs of aging.

Whether you grow them in your own backyard, search out heirloom varieties at the farmer's market, or throw them in your shopping cart at the supermarket, tomatoes are a welcome addition to a balanced and varied diet.