Tomatoes not only good for skin, but can also ward off skin cancer

Are you a tomato lover? Someone who simply must include tomatoes into your cooking? Then there is some good news for you from the world of science.

According to a recent study, published in the journal Scientific Reports, eating tomatoes on a regular basis may lessen the chances of developing skin cancer.

Tomatoes, are generally well known for their skin benefiting qualities. An active compound, called Lycopene, which exists in fresh tomatoes is now used commonly in most cosmetics and skincare products.

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Experts from the Ohio State University in America conducted experiments on mice and discovered that regular intake of tomatoes reduced the risk skin cancer tumour formation in male mice by an astounding 50%.

These mice were administered 10% tomato powder as a part of their daily food for almost 35 weeks. They were then shown UV rays. Experts are of the opinion that pigmenting compounds that give colour to tomatoes may also help prevent the body from the harmful effects of UV rays, decreasing the chances of skin cancer.

Regular intake of tomatoes is also associated with a host of healthy advantages. Tomatoes are saturated with calcium and vitamin K that are helpful for healthy bones. Vitamin A and C present in tomatoes help boost immunity and get rid of harmful free radicals from the body. Chromium in tomatoes is excellent for maintaining blood sugar levels.

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Colourful fruits and vegetables are well known for being loaded with antioxidants. "Tomatoes are rich in lycopene and anthocyanins. These helps protect against vision loss, heart diseases, neurodegenerative diseases and cancer (especially prostate)", as mentioned in Dorling Kindersley's Healing Foods.