Attack of the Cancer Fighting Tomatoes

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Attack of the Cancer Fighting Tomatoes

Copyright 2005

That’s right, the colorful little fruit (yes, it’s a fruit)

has been shown to pack a powerful punch against several

forms of cancer. A variety of studies indicate that a diet

rich in tomato based products (tomato paste, sauce, juice,

soup and ketchup) can significantly reduce the risk of

prostate, lung and colon cancer. Not bad for a fruit that

was considered by many to be poisonous and inedible until

the 19th century.

What is the Active Ingredient?

The active ingredient that makes tomatoes such a formidable

opponent against cancer cells is the carotenoid called

Lycopene. Lycopene is the natural red pigment found in

tomatoes and tomato based products. The redder the tomato,

the more lycopene is present.

How does Lycopene Fight Cancer?

In the body, lycopene is deposited in the liver, lungs,

prostate gland, colon and skin. Its concentration in body

tissues tends to be higher than all other carotenoids. Some

organs, such as the testes and adrenal glands, store higher

levels of lycopene than do other organs or tissues.

Lycopene acts as a super antioxidant by picking up free

radicals in the body. Free radicals are atoms or groups of

atoms with an odd number of electrons and can be formed

when oxygen interacts with certain molecules. Once formed

these highly reactive radicals can start a chain reaction.

Their primary danger comes from the damage they can do when

they react with important cellular components such as DNA,

or the cell membrane. Cells may function poorly or die if

this occurs.

Is there any Research on the Cancer fighting power of

Lycopene?

Although more large-scale studies are needed before any

definitive conclusions can be made, current research does

suggest that lycopene from various tomato products is

indeed associated with the lowered risk of several types of

cancers. Several published reports are listed below.

Gann et al. 1999 - Cancer Research

The study examined initial plasma caroteniods (including

lycopene) of 1872 men in 1982, and then followed them for

13 years. These men were randomly assigned to a placebo

group or a group to receive beta-carotene and aspirin

supplementation. Of the men studied, 578 developed

prostate cancer versus 1294 control subjects. Lycopene was

the only antioxidant with a significantly lower average

blood level in those men with cancer as compared to those

without cancer. In those men not receiving the aspirin and

beta carotene, plasma lycopene levels were very strongly

related to a lower risk of developing prostate cancer.

This study concluded that increased consumption of tomato

products and other lycopene-containing foods may reduce the

onset of prostate cancer.

Giovannucci 1999 - Journal of the National Cancer Institute

This journal is a review of research studies available

regarding cancer risk (not just prostate cancer) and intake

of tomato based foods as well as blood lycopene levels.

After identifying 72 studies that fit these criteria, it

was found that an inverse relationship between tomato

intake or blood lycopene levels and cancer risk was

reported in 57 of them. Of these 57, it was found that 35

of these inverse relationships were statistically

significant. It was also found that cancer protection from

lycopene was strongest for prostate, colon and stomach

cancers, but also appeared to have some benefit in the

treatment of other cancers.

Rao et al. 1999 - Nutrition and Cancer

This study examined plasma and prostate lycopene levels in

cancer patients and a control group free of cancer. Though

only 12 patients were in each group, significantly lower

serum and prostate lycopene levels were found in those with

cancer. Levels of other carotenoid substances did not vary

between the groups.

Additional Benefits

In addition to fighting cancer, the lycopene found in

tomatoes has been associated with better mental activity in

old age and a reduced risk of heart disease. A University

of land study found that tomatoes might protect the

eyes by hampering macular degeneration, a cause of vision

loss in older adults.

How do I get Lycopene into my body?

The best source of lycopene intake is through eating

tomato-based products. This is more effective than

supplementation. You will get the most lycopene through

concentrates and processed products such as tomato paste,

sauce, soup and canned tomatoes. Heating helps to release

lycopene and adding a little light olive oil will increase

absorption. Start packing your diet with more tomato based

recipes and begin enjoying the cancer fighting power of the

mighty tomato.

About the Author:

Mike has been a life long follower and proponent of

the fitness lifestyle. Through his avid research, Mr.

has come to the realization that being healthy is a

choice and encompasses not only proper diet but also a

fitness regimen that includes the mind, body and soul.

Mike is the publisher and editor-in-chief for the

health information site http://www.Ultimatehealthreport.com.