A novel Italian study has revealed that opting tomatoes to eat not only diminishes the risk of developing prostate cancer among men but it also shrivels the existing tumours. The research team hypothesizes that furtive may lie in lycopene that is powerful anti-oxidant which makes tomatoes red.
The lycopene counteracts harmful free radicals which are mixed up in various kinds of cancer, cardiovascular problems, in macular degeneration and age related problems. But its anti-oxidant benefits were strongest for prostate cancer. Tomato is a vegetable that not only prickles the taste buds but also proffers various health benefits.
In addition to rich source of lycopene, tomatoes are low in sugar, calories, fat, and sodium and are wonderful source of many crucial vitamins and minerals. Nicotinic acid present in tomato helps decrease blood cholesterol and protect against cardiovascular diseases. It helps dissolving gallstones, reduces congestion of liver and helps fight infections due to its natural antiseptic properties.
In order to analyze the prostate cancer fighting features of tomatoes, research team from the University of Naples carried out lab study on mice. They fed lab mice implanted with prostate cancer cells, with normal diet or diet containing ten percent tomato powder. It was found that animal fed tomato powder showed slow progression of the disease.
Those mice also had lesser rates of prostate cancer. In comparison those fed normal diet did not show such benefits. According to Joanna Owens from Cancer Research Britain stated that the study did not provide enough proof that tomato can diminish the risk of prostate cancer or prevent progression of the disease.
Other threats such as age, family history and civilization are likely to play a much greater role than diet alone. The daily consumption of tomatoes acts as blood purifier and helps to improve the texture and color of the skin. They are rich source of vitamin K and are significant for bone health.
The Fibers of tomatoes improve digestion and reduce constipation. Leutin present in tomato can help in preventing macular degeneration and improves vision. The studies point out that tomato has anti-clotting properties much like aspirin and diminish the risk of blood clots and stroke.