*By Dr Devan
Eating raw tomatoes with the skin can help prevent prostate cancer, thanks to a potent antioxidant called lycopene. Here’s a detailed explanation:
1. Lycopene — the Key Protective Compound
Lycopene is a bright red carotenoid pigment found abundantly in tomato skin.
It has strong antioxidant properties — neutralizing free radicals that can damage DNA and lead to cancerous changes in prostate cells.
Studies show that higher blood levels of lycopene are associated with a significantly reduced risk of prostate cancer, particularly aggressive forms.
2. Why the Skin Matters
The tomato skin contains the highest concentration of lycopene and other phytonutrients such as flavonoids and polyphenols.
Removing the skin drastically reduces these cancer-fighting compounds.
Eating raw tomatoes with the skin ensures maximum lycopene intake in its natural, bioactive form.
3. Raw vs Cooked Tomatoes
Raw tomatoes are beneficial because they retain vitamin C and certain heat-sensitive enzymes.
However, cooked tomatoes (e.g., tomato sauce or paste) have lycopene in a more bioavailable form, since heat breaks down cell walls, making absorption easier — especially when combined with a little healthy fat like olive oil.Best strategy: Eat both raw and cooked tomatoes regularly for maximum benefit.
4. Mechanism of Action Against Prostate Cancer
Antioxidant protection: Prevents DNA damage and oxidative stress in prostate cells.
Anti-inflammatory action: Reduces inflammation that can promote tumor growth.
Hormonal regulation: May reduce IGF-1 (Insulin-like Growth Factor 1), a hormone linked to cancer progression.
Cell-cycle regulation: Helps trigger apoptosis (natural cell death) in precancerous and cancerous cells.
5. How to Consume for Best Results
Eat 1–2 medium raw tomatoes daily, ideally with the skin.
Combine with a source of healthy fat (like olive oil, avocado, or nuts) — this enhances lycopene absorption since it’s fat-soluble.
Include cooked tomato products (like tomato soup, sauce, or puree) a few times a week.
Choose ripe, deep-red tomatoes — they have the highest lycopene content.
6. Supporting Evidence
Harvard Health Professionals Study (J Natl Cancer Inst, 2002): Men who consumed tomato products more than twice a week had a 30–40% lower risk of prostate cancer.
Meta-analyses (2015, 2018): Regular lycopene intake from tomatoes correlated with reduced incidence and progression of prostate cancer.
Animal and cell studies: Lycopene inhibits tumor growth and angiogenesis (formation of new blood vessels feeding the tumor).
7. Caution
Avoid consuming tomatoes with refined oils, excess salt, or processed sauces with preservatives — they negate much of the benefit.
For those with acid reflux or GERD, tomatoes can cause irritation — moderation is advised.
Summary
Aspect Effect
Active compound Lycopene (mostly in the skin)
Best form Raw with skin + cooked with fat
Main benefits Antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, DNA protection
Cancer targeted Prostate (main), also stomach, lung, colon
Recommended intake 1–2 tomatoes daily or equivalent tomato products
In short:
Raw tomatoes with skin are a natural defense against prostate cancer — powerful, simple, and backed by science.
Combine raw and cooked forms for the best protection.
*Dr Devan is a Mangaluru-based ENT specialist and author.
Hindusthan Samachar / Manohar Yadavatti
