Positive Health Online

Abstract

ENGELHARD and co-authors, Hypertension Unit, Faculty of Health Sciences, Soroka University Medical Centre, Ben Gurion, University of the Negev, 84101 Beer Sheva, Israel, have tested the beneficial effects of tomato juice on elevated blood pressure.

Background

Treatment of hypertension can reduce the risk for cardiovascular diseases. Tomato extract contains carotenoids such as lycopene, beta-carotene, and vitamin E, which are known as effective antioxidants. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of tomato extract on systolic and diastolic blood pressure in hypertension.

Methodology

In this single-blinded, placebo-controlled trial, 31 subjects with grade-1 hypertension were recruited from primary care clinics. Subjects entered a 4-week placebo period, then an 8-week treatment period with tomato extract, 250 mg Lyc-O-Mato, and a 4-week control period with placebo.

Results

Systolic blood pressure decreased from 144 to 134 mm Hg (p < 0.001), and diastolic blood pressure decreased from 87.4 to 83.4 mm Hg (p < 0.05). No changes in blood pressure were demonstrated during placebo periods. Lipid peroxidation products decreased from 4.58 to 3.81 nmol/mg (p < 0.05). No significant changes were found in lipid parameters.

Conclusion

A short-term treatment with antioxidant-rich tomato extract can reduce blood pressure. The continuous effect of this treatment and the long-term beneficial effect on cardiovascular risk factors still need to be demonstrated.

References

Engelhard YN, Gazer B, Paran E. Natural antioxidants from tomato extract reduce blood pressure in patients with grade-1 hypertension: a double-blind, placebo-controlled pilot study. American Heart Journal 151 (1): 100, Jan 2006.