Bountiful Benefits of Tomatoes

10. Potential Risks

Tomatoes are part of the Solanaceae family, which also includes belladonna or deadly nightshade. An alkaloid compound called solanine causes nightshade toxicity. Although tomato plants contain some solanine in their leaves and stems, tomatoes themselves contain only minuscule amounts. Some people believe foods in the Solanaceae family cause inflammation. Tomatoes are usually harmless, but people with elevated alkaloid sensitivity, especially those with autoimmune disorders, may benefit from avoiding foods in the nightshade family.