Lung cancer is when a cancerous tumor occurs in the lungs. Mayo Clinic estimates that lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States. It claims the lives of nearly half a million Americans each year. In observational studies, people who consume a diet high in tomatoes show a reduced incidence of lung cancer, according to the Kansas State University. Nevertheless, you should consult a physician or a registered dietitian before you decide to take tomato products.
Lung Cancer Risk
Smoking may be regarded as the major risk factor for lung cancer. According to the New Jersey Medical School, antioxidants may modestly reduce lung cancer incidence in cigarette smokers, but more research is needed. In one trial of 27,000 male smokers, those who took tomatoes and tomato products experienced a significant reduction in lung cancer risk compared to those who took a placebo. The result of this study was published in the "American Journal of Epidemiology" in September 2002.
Lycopene
Lycopene, a carotenoid like beta-carotene found in high amounts in tomatoes, is very potent in cancer chemoprevention against lung cancer, according to Stanford University. Lycopene is a strong antioxidant that attacks free radicals in the body and provides protection against lung cancer. Free radicals are by-products of the body's normal chemical processes that cause damage to cells and may contribute to cancer.
Therapeutic Dosage
According to MedlinePlus, the standard dose of lycopene is 12 mg per day for men and 6.5 mg per day for women. Lycopene can be taken at any time with or without food. It appears that lycopene in processed foods, such as tomato sauces and juice, is more easily absorbed than its natural form.
Side Effects
High intakes of lycopene in supplement form may actually increase the risk of certain forms of skin diseases, such as lycopenodermia, that is marked by a deep orange discoloration of the skin. Lycopenodermia occurs even at low doses. Therefore, you should not consume lycopene without first talking to your doctor.
References
- Healthful Life Project: Antioxidants and Risk of Lung Cancer; May 2003
- The Stanford Health Improvement Program and YMCA: Cancer Fighting Foods; Diet and Exercise ...t
- Kansas State University: April is Fresh Florida Tomato Month
- MedlinePlus: Lycopene
- Oregon State University; Linus Pauling Institute; Jane Higdon; Dec. 2005
- MayoClinic.com: Lung Cancer
