Compound in Tomatoes Boosts Function of Blood Vessels in Heart Disease Patients

Heart patients should consider daily intake of tomatoes as it helps reduce the risk of heart disease.

Researchers at the University of Cambridge found that lycopene, found in tomatoes and other fruits, has the potential to enhance the functioning of blood vessels in patients diagnosed with cardiovascular diseases. These patients can boost their health by taking a daily supplement of lycopene. The potency of this extract is enhanced when consumed in pureed form like ketchup or with olive oil.

Worldwide, the occurrence of cardiovascular diseases varies. In southern Europe, where most of the population adheres to a Mediterranean diet that includes more fruits, vegetables and olive oil, the incidence of cardiovascular disease is less. Studies conducted recently showed that Mediterranean diet lowers the incidence of events linked to the disease that include heart attack and stroke.  One key component in this diet that lowers the risk is lycopene.

Lycopene is an antioxidant and is more potent than vitamin E. Though the researchers found a link between lycopene and reduced risk of cardiovascular disease, the mechanism underlying this is not fully known.

Dr Joseph Cheriyan, consultant clinical pharmacologist & physician at Addenbrooke's Hospital and Associate Lecturer at the University of Cambridge, says, "There's a wealth of research that suggests that the Mediterranean diet - which includes lycopene found in tomatoes and other fruit as a component - is good for our cardiovascular health. But so far, it's been a mystery what the underlying mechanisms could be."

A randomized double bind placebo controlled test was carried out to investigate the effect of lycopene. The study included 36 cardiovascular disease patients and 36 healthy subjects. The participants were given either Ateronon, a supplement that had 7mg lycopene, or a placebo. The function of the blood vessels was measured by checking their response to acteylcholine in their forearms.

Patients with cardiovascular disease were on statins.  The researchers observed that lycopene enhances and normalized the endothelial function in those with cardiovascular diseases. Lycopene improved the responses of blood vessels by nearly 53 percent when compared to those taking placebo. The supplement, however, did not have any effect on the blood pressure, arterial stiffness or levels of lipids.

Dr Cheriyan says, "It reinforces the need for a healthy diet in people at risk from heart disease and stroke. A daily 'tomato pill' is not a substitute for other treatments, but may provide added benefits when taken alongside other medication."

The finding was documented in journal PLOS One.