Unlock the Magic of Tomatoes

A good diet is essential for good health.  One reason why death rates from coronary heart disease are high in the UK is because the average diet is so unhealthy.  Fat intake is too high and fruit and vegetable consumption too low.  We do eat 35% more fruit than we did in the mid 1970s, but vegetable consumption has not increased at all.

From fruit and vegetables, we get antioxidants.  There is strong evidence that antioxidants protect our body's cells and boost our chances of living longer and healthier.  The ACE vitamins (vitamins A, C and E) are the main source of antioxidants.  One of the most powerful antioxidants is found in tomatoes and is called Lycopene.

Research has already indicated that those who frequently eat tomatoes and tomato products have a lower risk of certain cancers, particularly prostate cancer.  Lycopene is even more effective when the tomatoes have been processed or cooked because heating with a little oil releases the lycopene which is found in the tomato skin and makes it easier for the body to absorb.

It is no big surprise, therefore, that Heinz is sponsoring a number of studies which focus on Lycopene's potential in the fight against cancers of the digestive tract, breast and prostate.