Daily tomato-based supplement ‘could improve heart health’

Scientists have determined a way of improving the function of blood vessels in patients with cardiovascular disease using a tomato-based supplement.

Researchers from the University of Cambridge have examined the processes that allow lycopene – a powerful antioxidant ten times more potent than vitamin E found in tomatoes and other fruits – is able to reduce cardiovascular risk.

It does so by restoring the endothelium, the inner lining of the blood vessels, which are damaged by coronary disease but are not healed by treatment with statins. Tests showed that 7 mg of oral lycopene supplementation improved and normalised endothelial function in heart disease patients.

This study not only reinforces the need for a healthy diet in people at risk from heart disease and stroke, but also suggests this new supplement could be of great benefit.

Dr Joseph Cheriyan, consultant clinical pharmacologist and physician at Addenbrooke's Hospital and associate lecturer at the University of Cambridge, said: "A daily tomato pill is not a substitute for other treatments, but may provide added benefits when taken alongside other medication."

Cardiovascular disease remains the leading cause of death both in the UK and worldwide, making the development of new therapies a key priority.