Pizza sauce can be healthy, largely depending on its ingredients. While variations exist, the healthiness of pizza sauce primarily stems from its main component: tomatoes.
The Nutritional Core: Tomatoes and Lycopene
As highlighted, a healthy pizza sauce is typically made from tomatoes, which is rich in antioxidants like lycopene. Tomatoes are a fantastic base for sauce, offering not just flavor but significant nutritional benefits.
Lycopene is a powerful antioxidant found abundantly in cooked tomatoes, even more so than in raw ones. This makes tomato-based pizza sauce a good source of this vital nutrient.
Here's what the reference states about the benefits of lycopene:
- Reduce blood pressure
- Minimize cholesterol
- Even help prevent cancer!
Lycopene is also found in other vibrant red and pink fruits like strawberries and raspberries, but tomatoes are a primary dietary source, especially in cooked forms like sauce.
What Influences Healthiness Beyond Tomatoes?
While the tomato base is a healthy starting point, not all pizza sauces are created equal. The overall health profile of a sauce can be affected by other added ingredients.
Look out for:
- Added Sugars: Some commercial sauces may contain significant amounts of added sugars to enhance flavor.
- Excessive Salt: High sodium content can counteract the benefits of the tomato base, particularly for blood pressure.
- Amount and Type of Oil: While some healthy fats are fine, excessive or unhealthy oils can reduce the sauce's healthiness.
Making a Healthier Choice
To ensure your pizza sauce contributes positively to your diet, consider these points:
- Read the Label: Check the ingredient list and nutrition facts for added sugars and sodium levels.
- Choose Simple Ingredients: Opt for sauces with minimal ingredients, focusing on tomatoes, herbs, and spices.
- Homemade Sauce: Making sauce at home allows you to control exactly what goes into it, ensuring it's packed with tomato goodness and free from unwanted additives.
In conclusion, a pizza sauce centered around tomatoes is a source of beneficial antioxidants like lycopene, contributing to various health advantages. However, its overall healthiness depends on avoiding excessive added sugars and salt.
