Tomatoes are high in lycopene

Lycopene is a bright red carotene and carotenoid pigment and phytochemical that can be found in tomatoes, strawberries and many other red fruits and vegetables. Lycopene's potential to reduce the risk of developing certain types of cancers, specifically prostate cancer, has been studied extensively. Tomatoes also contain soluble fibre which helps reduce cholesterol levels (LDL - Low Density Lipoprotein).

Many supplements on the market have isolated lycopene as a powerful antioxidant that prevents cell damage. It is usually sold on its own or in combination with other herbs and nutraceuticals to target specific health needs, most commonly prostate conditions.

Interestingly enough, tomatoes are also part of the 'solanaceae' or 'nightshade' group of fruits and vegetables, which also include potatoes, peppers, eggplants and more. This group contains a higher concentration of solanine which is a toxic glycoalkaloid with a bitter taste. It is thought to have been developed as a defence mechanism against herbivores. Intoxication is characterized by gastrointestinal disorders like diarrhea, vomiting, or abdominal pain and neurological disorders like hallucinations or headache, which occurs 8-12 hours after ingestion.

Due to higher concentrations of solanine, a complete removal of nightshades is usually

warranted if any autoimmune like conditions exists. Dietary re-introduction over time may be in order to isolate the major triggers.

That being said, it is important to not neglect the many other benefits tomatoes may have on other specific health conditions and overall health.

What does the research have to say?

Higher dietary and circulating lycopene have been linked to a decrease in prostate cancer risk. Although it does not appear to have reduced risk for advanced prostate cancer, its powerful antioxidant properties should not be dismissed entirely.

Lycopene has also been correlated with having a positive effect on high cholesterol levels, high blood pressure, and endothelial function as well. Overall, these added health benefits decrease your risk of heart attacks, stroke or any other cardiovascular associated pathology.

Research is limited when it comes to autoimmunity and the nightshade fruits and vegetables.

Ultimately, a tomato a day may keep the doctor away.

References:

Cheng, H. M., Koutsidis, G., Lodge, J. K., Ashor, A., Siervo, M., & Lara, J. (2017). Tomato and lycopene supplementation and cardiovascular risk factors: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Atherosclerosis, 257, 100–108. doi: 10.1016/j.atherosclerosis.2017.01.009

Rowles, J. L., Ranard, K. M., Smith, J. W., An, R., & Erdman, J. W. (2017). Increased dietary and circulating lycopene are associated with reduced prostate cancer risk: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Prostate Cancer and Prostatic Diseases, 20(4), 361–377. doi: 10.1038/pcan.2017.25