Tomatoes slow down enlargement of prostate

Besides frequent orgasms which averts prostate cancer, men in their mid-life are advised to eat tomatoes to slow down the enlargement of their prostate glands. Tomatoes and other fruits and vegetables coloured red, because of the presence of lycopene, are known for preventing cancer.

However, a review by researchers of 67 studies found that lycopene could slow down the enlargement of the prostate – a condition which many men, beginning their 40s – experience. The enlargement of the gland is also the reason behind frequent urination at night. The prostate constricts the tube and could block it which would cause benign prostate hyperplasia (BPH).

“We knew lycopene seems to slow down the development of prostate cancer, but now it seems it can slow down the enlargement of the prostate and development of BPH as well,” The Telegraph quotes Professor Hiten Patel from Bart’s and the Royal London Hospital.

The study, published in the Oncology and Cancer Case Reports journal, reviewed research into lycopene. While saying that the results of the review is very promising, Patel adds that more research need to be done before experts recommended consumption of more red tomatoes.

But lycopene is not easily absorbed in the blood. It has to be processed in some way. One method suggested by experts is to cook red tomatoes in healthy fat, such as olive oil, rather than eating it raw. Another way is through a supplement pill, the LactoLycopene.

Previous research in China, where traditional diets include more intake of fruits and vegetables, found lower rates of prostate cancer among Chinese men. Similarly, a Bristol University study found an 18 percent risk of prostate cancer for those who ate the most tomatoes.