Emerging nutritional research suggests that including fresh tomatoes in daily diets may help reduce the risk of prostate-related health issues in men, including prostate enlargement and cancer.
Health and nutrition experts say tomatoes are rich in lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that has been linked to prostate health. Lycopene is believed to help lower inflammation, neutralize harmful free radicals, and reduce the risk of abnormal cell growth in the prostate.
“Tomatoes, especially when consumed regularly and in fresh form, have shown promising results in lowering the chances of prostate complications,” said Dr. Emmanuel Okoye, a Lagos-based nutritionist.
“The compound lycopene, found in abundance in tomatoes, plays a protective role.”
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Prostate enlargement—medically known as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH)—and prostate cancer are among the most common health concerns for aging men.
While genetics and age are contributing factors, experts emphasize that diet and lifestyle play significant roles in either triggering or preventing these conditions.
A study published in the Journal of Cancer Research and Clinical Oncology found that men who consumed tomato-based products regularly had a significantly lower risk of developing prostate cancer compared to those who rarely included them in their diet.
Medical professionals, however, advise that while tomatoes are beneficial, they should be part of a balanced diet combined with regular exercise, routine medical checks, and a healthy lifestyle.
In addition to raw tomatoes, cooked varieties such as tomato sauce and paste may also be effective, as heat increases lycopene availability.
While ongoing studies continue to explore the full impact of tomatoes on prostate health, nutritionists recommend men—particularly those above 40—incorporate fresh tomatoes into their daily meals as a simple, natural preventive step.