Tomatoes

Tomatoes contain Lycopene which is a powerful antioxidant, which research suggests is potentially an anti-cancer agent. It is related to vitamin A, and falls into the carotenoid group. It also gives tomatoes, watermelon and red grapefruit their red colour.

There is lycopene in raw tomatoes but not nearly as much as cooked tomatoes like tomato sauces and tomato puree/paste, even ketchup!, organic varieties have proved to contain more than the quickly grown varieties. In a small controlled study carried out by Newcastle and Manchester universities, women were given 55g of tomato paste to eat each day for 12 weeks. The skin protection against sunburn increased by 30% in the women. So combined with topical UVA and UVB protection it could offer greater benefits for your skin while in the sun. So when you’re on holiday boost your skin’s protection by indulging in lots of tomato based dishes and sauces!


Researchers say that lycopene is two times as powerful as beta-carotene in the destruction of free radicals. A growing body of evidence shows that lycopene can significantly reduce the risk of prostate cancer in men. Studies have shown that men who eat 10 or more servings of lycopene-rich foods per week have a 45% reduced risk of prostate cancer development.

Research has also suggested that lycopene could help prevent cancer of the pancreas, colon, rectum, oesophagus, oral cavity, large bowel, ovaries, cervix and mouth. It's believed that lycopene "turns off" free radicals in the body that can cause cell damage and lead to cancer. Lycopene may also play a role in preventing heart disease.

How much lycopene do you need? 
A daily intake of 3mg - 7mg of lycopene is recommended. This estimation is based on the consistency of 5-6 servings of fruits and vegetables.