Tomatoes have been the subject of many health studies, primarily the effects of a compound they contain called Lycophene.

Lycophene is the compound that makes tomatoes red is an antioxidant, it will keep you looking young by reducing cell damage in your body. This antioxidant protects the body against cancer.

Prostate cancer – tomatoes have been demonstrated as reducing occurrence of prostate cancer, however in some recent trials this has been denied.

Pancreatic cancer; a Canadian study showed that a healthy intake of tomatoes and lycopene reduced occurrence of pancreatic cancer by 31%.

Lycopene is available in supplements but it has been found that lycopene is more effective when its intake comes from tomatoes.

A mixture of olive oil and tomatoes is now known to increase the beneficial effects of lycopene as oils assists its absorbtion.

Lung cancer – a high intake of beta carotene may not be good for lung cancer, however a high intake of lycophene has been shown to reduce risk by 28%. It has been shown to be beneficial for the treatment of a number of lung complaints: http://www.smh.com.au/news/cancer/tomatoes-may-protect-against-lung-cancer/2006/01/10/1136863227449.html

Regardless of the benefits of lycopene, tomatoes have the following properties:

Very High in vitamins C, A and K, and minerals potassium and manganese.

A good source of dietary fiber

Modest amounts of a variety of B vitamins – Thiamine Niacin, riboflavin, B5 and B6.

Modest amounts of minerals – magnesium, copper, iron, folate, chromium.

Other claims:

Arthritis : Tomatoes are anti-inflammatory, so may be beneficial to people who suffer from arthritis. Vitamin K levels in tomatoes are high and as a result will assist in bone health.

Tomatoes reduce hardening of the arteries

Tomatoes protect against Alzheimer's disease

Tomatoes protect against diabetes

Tomatoes protect against Migrains

Tomatoes taste good, they are very available so you cant really go wrong.

'For best results' buy organic, they have been found to contain superior quantities of Lycophene.