Tomatoes can reduce inflammation

A study published this summer in the British Journal of Nutrition confirms that the tomato is our best source of lycopene, a powerful antioxidant. Lycopene from tomato products enhances antioxidant defenses and reduces the risk of inflammatory diseases. Obesity is a chronic inflammatory condition in which increased levels of body fat leads to an increase in the circulation of inflammatory mediators. The study found that tomato juice significantly reduces inflammation in overweight and obese women. Thus the increase in the intake of tomato products can provide a useful approach to reduce the risk of inflammatory diseases associated with obesity, such as cardiovascular disease and diabetes.

Anne-Marie Roy
Nutritionist
www.annemarieroy.com