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Attack of the Cancer Fighting Tomatoes |
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by:Michael Brooks |
Copyright 2005 Michael Brooks
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 Maryland 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 Brooks has been a life long follower and proponent of the fitness
lifestyle. Through his avid research, Mr. Brooks 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 Brooks is the publisher and editor-in-chief for the health
information site http://www.Ultimatehealthreport.com
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