Doctors from the Spanish Society of Medical Oncology are urging men to regularly include tomatoes in their diet to reduce the risk of developing prostate cancer.
Doctors indicate that prostate cancer develops as a result of genetic mutations that trigger uncontrolled cell division in the gland's tissues. Since tomatoes contain lycopene—a natural antioxidant that helps protect cells from DNA damage—it is believed to reduce the risk of developing cancer.
According to them, eating tomatoes regularly can also have a positive effect on overall health.
A source at the Spanish Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Food indicates that the benefits of tomatoes are not limited to cancer prevention; they also help reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease, support immunity, improve digestion, and enhance skin health. In addition, tomatoes contain potassium, as well as vitamins A and C.
Doctors emphasize that tomatoes are part of a balanced diet, not a "preventive measure" against cancer, and advise following a varied diet and a healthy lifestyle.
According to them, the main risk factors for prostate cancer remain being overweight, smoking, and a diet high in fat.
For his part, British doctor William Lee recommends eating tomatoes and nuts to help prevent cancer.
According to him, nuts, especially walnuts, almonds, hazelnuts, cashews, and pistachios, can protect against serious diseases. This is because they contain cancer-fighting polyphenols, which strengthen the immune system, and omega-3 fatty acids, which prevent nutrients from reaching cancer cells. Tomatoes should also be consumed for cancer prevention.
He says: "Tomatoes are rich in lycopene, a powerful anti-cancer antioxidant. Lycopene protects the structure of DNA, thus preventing cancer. Lycopene can also slow the growth of malignant tumors."
According to him, studies have shown that men who eat tomatoes at least twice a week reduce their risk of developing prostate cancer by a third.
