Tomato and Broccoli Combo may Help Fight Prostate Cancer

A novel study has indicated the benefits of tomato and broccoli in the management of prostate cancer.

The compounds, present in both the vegetables, are a great blessing in the reduction of tumors, more so when consumed together rather than in isolation.

It is estimated that one out of four cancers in men happens to be prostate cancer, making it the most notorious of male cancers. Annually, 32,000 cases are detected and nearly 10,000 men die due to the disease.

Researchers from the University of Illinois said that, the different compounds present in the vegetables work on separate biological pathways to kill cancer cells. They have recommended that men eat up to three quarters of a head of raw broccoli regularly and two to three tomatoes, which will assist in fighting the disease.

John Erdman, Professor of Food Science and Human Nutrition at the university, said, “Studies have shown that men who regularly eat servings of fresh tomatoes have up to a 40 per cent reduced risk of developing prostate cancer, while the sulphur compounds in broccoli are known to be a mechanism that delays cancer growth. They are quite different agents, and do not have to be eaten together, but their effects seem to be very complementary.”

During the study, scientists fed rats, implanted with prostate cancer cells, with a diet comprising of 10 per cent tomato powder and 10 per cent broccoli powder. Another set of rats received either tomato or broccoli powders alone; the third set of rats were castrated. The finding revealed that after a period of 22 weeks, the rats which were fed a combination of tomato and broccoli witnessed a reduction in their tumors.

Professor Erdman said: “When eaten together, we see an additive effect. Cooked tomatoes may be better than raw tomatoes. The lesson is to eat a variety of fruits and vegetables prepared in a variety of ways.”

The study is published in the American journal, Cancer Research.

Source-Medindia
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