Raw basil and tomato are a non-optimal combination as it triggers an adverse reaction within our body. Tomatoes and basil are two of the most used herbs in Italian cuisine. The ingredients are typically paired in dishes such as pesto, caprese salad, and tomato sauce.
These two foods are so frequently paired because they are delicious together. However, if you are a lover of basil and tomatoes, it is important to know that these two plants should not be consumed at the same time. Eating basil and tomatoes at the same time can cause an adverse reaction, as they have opposite effects on the body when eaten together.
If you love to eat these herbs separately or in pairs, read on to learn more about why you shouldn’t eat basil and tomato together due to their opposite effects on the body.
What is the effect of consuming raw basil and tomatoes?
Tomatoes are rich in vitamin C and are a good source of vitamin A, thiamin, niacin, potassium and vitamin B6. They are also a source of minerals such as manganese, iron and magnesium. Basil is rich in vitamins A and C, folate, potassium, calcium, iron, manganese and vitamin K. It also contains antioxidants and can help fight free radicals in the body.
Both tomatoes and basil contain many essential vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. These two herbs also have a high water content, which makes them very low in calories and fat. Basil and tomato are two really healthy ingredients that can be added to salads, sandwiches, curries, and more.
So why shouldn’t they eat together? First, they both have a high water content, which makes them low in calories, fat and sodium. Given their low calorie and fat content, it is recommended to consume them in large quantities. This is why buffalo mozzarella which provides protein and a small amount of fat is usually added to these two foods.
Since basil and tomatoes are two very healthy ingredients rich in vitamins, minerals and antioxidants, consuming them in large quantities can have negative effects on the body. Micronutrients are important but not in overdose. When they overdo it they can become more dangerous than lacking them.
The opposite effects in the body following the consumption of tomatoes and basil
Another reason why you shouldn’t eat basil and tomatoes together is that they have opposite effects on the body when consumed together. When raw basil and tomato are consumed together, they have a negative effect on the body due to their highly acidic nature.
Basil and tomatoes have a PH level of 4.1 and 4.3 respectively. A PH level below 7.0 is considered acidic, while a PH level above 7.0 is alkaline. The body is naturally slightly alkaline, and most healthy diets aim to keep it that way. Consuming highly acidic foods in large quantities can have negative effects on the body, such as indigestion, stomach irritation, general malaise, diarrhea and nausea.