Ladies, we all know that fruit and vegetables are good for us - five-a-day, and all that jazz. However, what if we told you that certain produce could actually lower your risk of cancer? Mainly, tomatoes?

 

A recent study revealed that tomatoes may prevent stomach cancer, giving people all the more reason to eat the delicious fruit (yes, fruit).

 

As part of the study, a team of researchers from Italy and the U.S. analysed the components of tomato extracts from two different Southern Italy cultivars.

 

The scientists examined the tomato's ability to deal with various neoplastic features of gastric cancer cell lines.

 

Free stock photo of tomato, vegetable, basil

 

The study found that extracts from both tomato cultivars halted the growth and cloning behaviour of malignant cells. 

 

“Our results showed a possible role of these two varieties of tomatoes against typical neoplastic features. The treatment with tomato extracts affected cancer cell ability to grow both in adherence and in semisolid medium, reducing also cell migration ability. No toxic effects were observed on non-tumoural cells.

 

"We found, on gastric cancer cell lines, effects on both cell cycle progression and apoptosis modulation. The extent of antineoplastic effects, however, did not seem to correlate with the carotenoid content and antioxidant activity of the two tomato varieties. Our data indicate that San Marzano and Corbarino intake might be further considered as nutritional support not only in cancer prevention, but also for cancer patient diet,” the researchers explained in the Journal of Cellular Physiology.

 

The author of the study, Daniela Barone, mentioned that the effects did not appear to be related to specific anti-cancer components.

 

Free stock photo of food, healthy, vegetables, tomatoes

 

The beneficial effects should be associated with the whole fruit, the author added. The findings have called for further research on the potential use of specific nutrients, not only in cancer prevention but also as a cancer treatment. 

 

And just in case that information wasn't enough to convince you to munch on tomatoes, we've outlined other benefits associated with the red fruit. 

 

Get the glow 

Tomatoes are high in lycopene, which helps protect the skin from UV light damage while keeping signs of ageing at bay.



Strong bones

Tomatoes have high levels of calcium and vitamin K, which are both good for repairing and strengthening bones. Lycopene has also been shown to improve bone mass, which makes it a good food for fighting osteoporosis.

 

Red Tomato at Dried Plant

 

Shut eye

Adding tomatoes to your diet should actually allow you to sleep better.  

 

Lowers blood sugar levels

Tomatoes are good for hearth health. They are effective at reducing cholesterol levels, and lower blood pressure with their high levels of vitamin B, folate, niacin and potassium.

 

Keeps immune system strong

Tomatoes are an excellent source of vitamin C, which helps to boost the immune system.

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