New research suggests that men who eat over 10 portions a week of tomatoes have a significantly lower risk of developing prostate cancer.

Researchers at Universities of Bristol, Cambridge and Oxford published the first of its kind study in the medical journal Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers and Prevention. The research consisted of a comparison between the diet and lifestyle of 1,806 men with prostate cancer and 12,005 cancer-free men.

Results show that men who had a diet consisting of an optimal intake of selenium, calcium and lycopene had a lower risk of developing prostate cancer. Lycopene is a powerful antioxidant found in tomatoes. This dietary component fights toxins that cause cell damage.

Lower the risk of prostate cancer

The study suggests that a high intake of fruits and vegetables can significantly reduce the risk of prostate cancer. Tomatoes seem to be the most beneficial. Indeed, the research suggests that men eating over 10 portions a week of tomatoes have an 18% lower risk of developing prostate cancer.

This promising study still needs to be validated in clinical studies. However, an active lifestyle and a balanced diet consisting of a high intake of fruits and vegetables are very beneficial for patients’ health.