New Study Explores Exciting Potential of Tomato Compound to Support Bone Health
In a study conducted at Azienda University Hospital in Catanzaro, Italy, and published in the Journal of Translational Medicine, scientists set out to investigate the effects of lycopene on bone mineral density. Some of the research centered around test-tube studies – and was designed to evaluate the effects of lycopene on bone cells such as osteoblasts (the specialized cells that synthesize bone matrix).Lycopene Plays a Vital Role in the Regulation of Bone Metabolism and Improves Bone Density
The study results were encouraging. The team found that lycopene helps activate cellular systems – such as the WNT/beta-catenin pathway – that help prevent bone loss. In addition, lycopene appears to improve bone resistance and repair by influencing collagen biosynthesis.Additional Research Backs Therapeutic Effects of Lycopene
Lycopene is a powerful antioxidant that can scavenge harmful free radicals that otherwise cause oxidative stress and damage. Researchers have learned that oxidative stress can increase osteoclast cells, which degrade bone and cause bone loss (a process also known as resorption). So, it’s not surprising that additional research helps to confirm the therapeutic potential of lycopene.Boost Dietary Intake of Lycopene With Ripe, Red Tomatoes
According to the review published in IJMS, most people get about 80 percent of their lycopene by way of tomatoes – making them an important part of a healthy, bone-supporting diet. In addition to consuming stewed tomatoes and tomato sauce, you can get lycopene from fresh tomatoes and tomato juice.Lycopene is fat-soluble, so it is best absorbed with some healthy fat. This is one reason why natural health experts and nutritionists are so enthusiastic about serving tomatoes alongside avocados or olives. (For the “best of all possible worlds,” add tomatoes and olives to your favorite guacamole recipe).
If you absolutely can’t tolerate tomatoes in any form, other sources of lycopene include watermelon, guava, papayas, pink or red grapefruit, red cabbage, persimmons, and, somewhat surprisingly, asparagus.
Many researchers believe that tomatoes release more lycopene when cooked, although not all scientists agree. By the way, it’s not only women who benefit from this amazing compound. Men can – and do – suffer from osteoporosis. In addition, lycopene is important for prostate health.
Whether you eat tomatoes raw or cooked, one thing is clear. These savory fruits (yes, tomatoes are technically fruit) can be a valuable natural ally in the fight against osteoporosis.